We were lucky to catch up with Bryley Michael Bell recently and have shared our conversation below.
Bryley Michael , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found my overall true purpose through many different chapters of my life. But firstly, starting at a young age, I felt like I wasn’t quite normal. Something inside of me was different than most.
Coming from an acting family, with both my parents and cousin being in the Entertainment Industry in Hollywood in their prime days, acting in both Television & Film, I felt the blood flowing through my veins growing up in a household of actors, a fire burned within me, I couldn’t help but want to create art and follow in the direction they all went. I knew from a young age, I wanted to be an entertainer.
With my Father teaching me to play baseball as well, and 11 fantastic years of baseball, a part of me could see myself pursuing a possible career in the sport, but the older I got, the more I truly realized that I was meant to act.
To perform in front of the camera and make magic. Especially to use the experiences I’ve lived, to put that into my work. Make it real. And make it my own, and the most powerful tool was to rely on my real life experiences to create my unique work from the heart and soul — for the screen and characters I breathe to life.
Every human on this earth has a unique ability and is meant to do something. We all have a purpose and I think that’s beautiful, especially once you find out what your purpose is. And, of course, it can be very difficult, especially when you feel lost and struggle with things maybe not everyone else does. Growing up, like I said, I felt I wasn’t normal. And I learned to accept that. Because it was true, I wasn’t. I am not normal, and I honestly wouldn’t want to be.
As a young kid and teenager I struggled with all sorts of mental health issues and ended up finding myself in Hard Times later in my Teenage years, that taught me to really find myself. Fully.
The chapters of my life, even coming from a family of love, I still faced problems and experiences that not everyone else faces. And I wouldn’t wish these things on anyone.
But, I got through them and I am thankful to be where I am now. And to continue forward.
Of course, I still battle with mental health, I embrace my inner self and know my worth, my purpose and route/path.
No one and nothing is ever perfect, it’s about what you make of it. And learning and growing. Just be the best you can be. And know the Hard Times will pass and it can lead to something great if you don’t give up. There’s always a new opportunity and day, to live and try again. Don’t fool yourself, you are extremely capable of extraordinary things.
I’ve overcome a lot, and feel I have an old soul. At the age of almost 25 years young, I feel beyond my years. Then again, that comes from life experiences and chapters. That molded me into who I am, today.
So, finding my overall TRUE purpose, came with time, for me. To really see the true meaning and value of the word itself.
Striking at a young age, to now in my mid twenties. My purpose was already there, I just needed more time to grow and build into something even better and special. To go through the process and trials I did, to really understand what I really am capable of. And what I am here for.
Be unique and appreciate your presence. You are here with a purpose. Find it, know it, and do it. And always believe in yourself.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My story and what I do, career wise and focus, is meaningful to me because I have the passion and love for something I absolutely adore. Acting. Being an actor and being what I am in the Entertainment business, to entertain others and do my very best to give the viewers something special and something they can feel, connect to, or enjoy. I take pride in being able to make art and meet the talented people that I have the privilege to meet, work with and share friendships and bonds with during my journey. My favorite part of it all, is sharing and creating these memories that will last forever. I am grateful and appreciative of the good people in my life, family, friends, industry colleagues & connections of mine. I have some seriously fantastic mentors, too. That have helped guide me through my hardships, as well. So I will always remember that.
The key is to love what you do. Love your job, have passion for your craft.
I’m not saying it will always be easy, and the Entertainment industry is far from easy, it’s extremely difficult and competitive but I always love a challenge. That’s what makes it all the more better and rewarding in the end. Especially when you can look back at it all, and see how far you’ve come and how much you’ve grown. What you learned, and the experiences and knowledge you’ve gained.
What’s new for me ?
Well, as of now, I have a new project awaiting release. For those who love Sci-Fi films and movies revolving around action/survival Horror and Suspense.
I am looking forward to seeing the final product, myself. You can find a little info about it over on my official Facebook and Instagram page !
And I’m auditioning all the time, the process of the game ! For all sorts of super cool productions of all sizes ! Which I can only thank my Team, my Manager and Agent for reeling in those amazing opportunities. And to my fellow industry connections who I have met on this journey ! I will be excited to share more about the current things going on, when I am allowed to share those details.
Other than that, most things are under wraps. Things are cooking !
I do the best I can, to update those who are interested, when I can.
Patience is key ! I tell myself this all the time.
This industry comes with having to have A LOT of patience and waiting for your next booked job, auditioning, callbacks, new projects waiting to release, new projects waiting to start official production, etc. It’s really a true journey and moves in chapters, like a book. So having that passion there, is absolutely essential and everything to my career. It’s a must.
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?
As I look back and reflect my past and early starts with my career and journey : The qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge I highly see vividly and clearly with the most importance was firstly, to have the quality of working hard towards something you really want and admire. Just go for it ! You have to start at the beginning, the bottom of the ladder, there’s no shortcuts.
Being passionate about your choices and decisions. Where do you see yourself ? Start with the right headspace. Where do you want to be ? How can you get there ? Realistically….
To understand that in order to get there, you will have to learn and face challenges on your own journey to reach the destination of your dreams and aspirations. Put in the WORK. The desire to be successful, comes with time and much effort put into your goals. “Practice makes perfect” would have to have been one of my most important areas of knowledge and understandings. Having FOCUS is the main key to achieving your dreams. Focus and dedication. Being determined and not lacking motivation. Positive attitude, positive energy, the mindset & Believing. Surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals.
You can do it ! I did it and I am STILL doing it. I am still navigating through where I want to be. It’s a PROCESS. Respect it always !
Motivation and fuel, will get you far !
Discipline and self confidence will also be a huge factor here. Nothing comes easy, remember that….You have to work for what you want. And you will fail, but that will turn into wins, too. Trust the process. Trust yourself.
Having a gameplan and steady open schedule for availability. Be flexible with what you’re working towards. You may have to make sacrifices and tough decisions to make the best towards your ultimate goals and career path. Always choose wisely. Trust your inner instincts. And do what feels right for YOU. You’ll know. You’ll feel it.
A skill I had was standing out and completely owning my unique traits to help accomplish my goals. Accept and know your strengths and gifts you have and use it to your advantage. Trust me, it works.
It’s in you, you just have to find it. Dive deep !
Overall, the mindset is EVERYTHING. It all starts there. Honestly. You have to have the correct mindset. If you don’t, then unfortunately you will not get to where you want/dream of.
Think kindly of yourself and remind yourself constantly, that you got this !
Then, with the right mindset, you can start putting in the grind !
There is always room for improvement, too. As you advance on your journey.
Don’t forget that. You can always learn something new. Don’t be afraid of the challenge. Own it !
You will develop into something great, the more you give yourself these amazing opportunities. Don’t cut yourself short.
You can achieve your goals with all of this knowledge !
Knowledge is power. Your skills and traits, are powerful. Your qualities are the most valuable thing to anyone. You have a ton to offer !
Learn, grow, improve. And always, good luck ! And “Break Legs”. (:
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
The most helpful people in this category here would be my parents who I looked up to from the very start, who gave me the initial motivation and encouragement to shoot for the stars and go for my dreams. They helped me through a lot of difficult times and experiences in my life, the hardships, that I mentioned before, and having my family there when I need it most, is priceless. There’s nothing else that beats that. Having my “Tribe” that I can count on and trust in is what life is all about !
My parents also taught me a lot about the arts and culture of acting…
So, you can imagine that growing up for me, around them was a true gift of being able to learn a lot “free of charge” and learn the ropes of the industry. Having that feedback, or guidance with the Do’s and Dont’s. Overcoming situations and obstacles.
Them feeding me knowledge from their perspective and their journey and experiences of their own. Giving me important advice. Practicing with me, adding on skills and opening up things within myself that I didn’t even know existed.
They were a major inspiration and made it known that it was my decision to do whatever it was I wanted to do in my life. They never forced anything or chose my path for me. They just made it clear to work hard and never give up. Follow your heart !
And so, I followed in their footsteps of the Actors Life. And I am so happy I did. I don’t see myself doing anything else.
Acting is also extremely therapeutic for me.
I need it…
Also, I have to say the people I’ve met on my journey. There’s been a lot of them. And it’s been challenging in every single way possible, but like I’ve mentioned, the challenge is part of the process ! So having those specific, helpful people there to help me overcome the stress within the industry and the feeling of being burnt out, and exhausted, my colleagues and connections, mentors and friends in the business are able to provide that support and comfort of understanding. Because they themselves know exactly how it is ! It’s mutual.
We can relate with each other. And I love that.
That’s what’s so important about helping others out. We all need that energy around to push us through. At times. When we need that extra boost or extra dose of motivation. We all have our lows. Sometimes we do need that “pick me up”. And I absolutely recognize that !
You always have yourself, but sometimes the weights do get too heavy and you need your people to help carry the load or send relief. And that’s a blessing.
A major shout out to all of these amazing folks !
Know your people and give thanks where it’s due.
Lastly, I also must note that, working with certain individuals in the business has helped me grow as an actor to get insight from them and even learn a thing or two, or help shed light on different aspects or views. It’s so cool to have growth by working with people who are also passionate about what they are doing and who I can look up to and see how their vision is and the advice and strategies they also can share with me.
It’s the icing on the cake !
Contact Info:
- Website: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm9520465/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryleymichaelbell/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Bryley-Michael-Bell-100009007641020/
- Other: Instagram: @bryleymichaelbell
Facebook: @ Bryley Michael Bell
Threads (app): @bryleymichaelbell
IMDb: Bryley Michael Bell
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