We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lornalitz Baez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Lornalitz, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in a room with my physical appearance brings me to the saying which goes, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”. As I personally grow, I find the most important attribute is how one views themselves. The confidence I have in myself and my talents have come from extreme hard work. To build that confidence I had to overcome a lot of obstacles. When I reflect on every challenge I’ve surpassed, I realize the lessons I’ve learned allow me to navigate the future in a very positive way.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an Artist, I am always exploring and adding new ways to express my creativity. I can remember vividly booking my first modeling and acting jobs and the pure excitement it gave me. A decade later of professional modeling and acting experience I still get the same excitement. I’ve modeled in campaigns with huge brands. To name a few, Target, Nivea, Fabletics, Torrid, Just fab, Macy’s, Savage Fenty, Ross, Fashion to figure. I am looking forward to working with other top brands. I studied Meisner at William Esper in New York City and moved to Los Angeles to focus more on Acting in television and film. I’ve worked on independent films, commercials and two docuseries. I am looking forward to starring on the big screen. I am always challenging myself to get out of my comfort zone. Without any experience, I was hired to Tv host season two of a show that airs on LATV network. The experience I gained made me realize I enjoy a specific style of hosting, more like a talk show host or podcast.
I love exploring new things to keep my life full of color and progress. I have found throughout the years of being an artist, and being in the public eye, attempting and failing is more satisfying to me than having regret for not trying.
A quote I read recently says,
“Sharing art is the price of making it. Exposing your vulnerability is the fee”
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Such a great question. The three qualities or skills of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey;
1. Following my dreams, afraid.
2. Willing to learn something new.
3. Taking time for myself. Self care.
– I knew it would be more difficult than a normal career. Especially at a young age not knowing anyone in the arts who could offer any guidance. I always had a belief in myself that I will persevere. I had to develop thick skin and confidence to withstand the endless rejections I hear pursuing a career in entertainment. One has to be self motivated to continue moving forward until you get your Yes!
– I keep an open mind to learning, especially from my own mistakes. One of my biggest strengths is to stay humble. A very important part of my growth is investing in myself by studying at acting schools, taking improv classes, working on shoots with top photographers and taking on a mentor. These are all financial sacrifices I have made for the betterment of my craft and it has always paid off. Everyday is a learning lesson if we pay close attention.
– Knowing when to take a break from my career to regroup, revamp or refocus on my goals. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of chasing the high of “booking that next big gig”. When I take a healthy break, I sit down and review what are my next steps to achieve my goals. I’ve learned to take care of myself to live a more fulfilled life for my own mental well being. This can look different for everyone. I work out regularly, meditate, write in my journal and have a healthy diet. Work on showing up your best for yourself first!
It has also been to focus on what brings me happiness, aside from my career. I dedicate time to my family and venturing in new things, completely opposite, gives me a grounded happiness I can’t find in my career. I am a mother of two beautiful boys who keep me on my toes. I am a brand ambassador of a workout platform called Class pass. This gives me the choice to try different workout studios around the Los Angeles areas (or anywhere I travel). I discovered Spinning, Yoga and HIIT training are my favorites. I most recently joined a Book Club. I’m excited to expand my novel collection and share my personal thoughts with this mastermind group.
My advice to anyone wanting to pursue a career in the Arts is keep an ambitious spirit and never forget your “why”. You have to love what you do. This will give you the strength to press forward. It’s also OK to take a moment for yourself in the process.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Yes, I am always open to building new relationships and collaborate with anyone involved in film and fashion. Reach out to me and let’s chat! I can be reached through my website or social platforms. www.Lornalitz.com
@Lornalitz
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lornalitz.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lornalitz/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/LornaLitz
Image Credits
Caroline Malouf (photographer) Jackie Romero (makeup/hair artist) Lalo Torres (photographer) Matt Sayles (photographer)
