The Search for the Real Self…

The Search for the Real Self (Masterson, 1990) was one of the first books I was required to read in graduate school many years ago. The “real self“ may be a confusing term for many people, as it seems we change daily. The self comprises many parts that change through different experiences we transcend daily. We are indeed a work in progress through different experiences. The essence of self involves the blending of diverse backgrounds into the defining features of identity. How many “selves” do we have? Maybe that all depends on how much you want to learn about yourself.

The filmmaker Ingmar Bergman offered an incredibly unique idea “of the fractured self, one that is measured and reflective.” Bergman’s use of the term, role is appropriately demonstrated in the film Personna (1966), which shows that the human center [of being] is not static but dynamic. Bergman indirectly pointed out the “interchangeable nature of existence,” questioning the structure of personality and its dramatic and mysterious nature. Bergman hints that the multi-dimensional self is a normal condition within a system that requires diversity. The “system” may be an organism called humanity.

In this respect, actors and non-actors share an imaginable perception of everyday life where each person explores the ability to create different roles based on various circumstances. Participating in acting training may allow people an experience of moving beyond physical needs and realities, accessing and creating a place where potential lives in connection with others. This perspective may be beneficial in fulfilling one's talents, which is considered a need to become a more fully functioning person. By reviewing human potential and applying acting skills, future blogs will provide more insight into how everyday people can exercise free will through mindfulness, exploring the internal space people use for making choices. The craft of acting for actors and non-actors can lead to performance and transcend performance. Applying acting training and experiences may lead to new personal explorations, going beyond personal limitations, and experiencing life healthier.