How Performers Protect Their Energy in Busy Seasons
Not every season of your performing career is going to be dreamy and spacious. Some chapters are straight-up survival mode. Audition season, back-to-back jobs, juggling side gigs just to pay rent — we've all been there. But just because your schedule is full doesn't mean burnout is inevitable.
As a performer, coach, and creative entrepreneur, I’ve lived this truth and coached dozens of artists through it. Here’s what I know for sure: you can stay healthy and grounded during the busiest, most chaotic seasons of your life and career — without pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion.
Why Hectic Seasons Happen (and Why They Matter)
In our world, especially for musical theatre performers, January through June can be packed with auditions. On top of that, many of us are balancing support jobs, side hustles, and travel for callbacks. Add the ever-growing pace of online submissions, self-tapes, and digital auditions, and suddenly you're living in a state of chronic urgency.
But this isn’t just about work ethic. It’s about shifting from hustle to sustainability.
Mindset Shift: Protect, Don’t Push
The first step is a mindset shift I call: Protect, Not Push.
You’re not weak for needing rest. You’re wise for protecting your energy.
Instead of forcing yourself through every opportunity out of fear of missing out, ask:
What matters most right now?
What can I say no to?
What boundaries can I set that will protect my health, emotions, and time?
Choose Boundaries Over Burnout
No one will respect your boundaries more than you do. It’s not about doing less — it’s about doing what matters more.
When coaching clients through this, we always start with one question: What’s your actual goal right now?
When you know what truly needs your energy (auditions, rehearsals, survival jobs), you can release what doesn’t.
Plan for Recovery (Now, Not Later)
Don’t wait until burnout to start thinking about rest.
Look at your schedule. Block out recovery time now. Whether that’s:
A full weekend off
An evening to read, draw, or be in nature
A staycation or digital detox
Give yourself something to look forward to. Recovery is not optional — it's your long-term strategy for creative longevity.
Create White Space in Your Calendar
Literally. Block out time that’s not for work, auditions, or side hustles. White space is essential to calm your nervous system and refuel your creativity.
Use that time to:
Journal
Move your body
Spend time with family or your pet
Enjoy a hobby unrelated to performing
Build Systems Before Chaos Hits
Chaos is coming. Expect it. And prepare for it.
Systems and routines help you stay grounded before things get hectic. That might include:
A simple morning routine
Meal prepping
Financial tracking
Pre-planned audition outfits and taping setups
Structure helps you focus when your brain feels scrambled.
Emotionally Protect Yourself
Saying "no" is a full sentence. So is "not right now."
You don’t have to attend every event, answer every DM, or say yes to every opportunity. Protecting your emotional energy means asking for help, outsourcing what you can, and giving yourself permission to not do it all.
Take a Digital Break
When life is full, social media is often the first thing to go. And guess what? You might feel better without the scroll.
Logging off for a few days (or weeks!) can bring massive clarity and peace. Auto-post if needed, but give yourself time to unplug and return to your center.
Final Thoughts: You’re the CEO of Your Career
You get to set the tone. You get to choose what success looks like for you.
This week on YouTube, I shared a full video walking through these tools and stories from my own career. If you want to go deeper, watch the full episode here and leave a comment sharing your favorite burnout prevention tool.
You're not lazy for slowing down. You're strategic for protecting your energy.
Want help navigating a chaotic season in your career? Book a 1:1 coaching session with me here and let’s create your burnout-proof game plan.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers and artist-entrepreneurs build sustainable careers—onstage and online.
With over two decades of experience and a unique bi-coastal perspective, Ashlee blends mindset, marketing, and business strategy to help creatives grow their impact without burnout. She splits her time between performing, coaching 1:1 clients, and building digital tools for the next generation of artist-leaders.
