We recently connected with Aziz Cem and have shared our conversation below.
Aziz, so great to have you with us today. There are so many topics we want to ask you about, but perhaps the one we can start with is burnout. How have you overcome or avoided burnout?
In the demanding world of acting and filmmaking, I’ve found several effective ways to overcome or avoid burnout. This is something many filmmakers, especially independent filmmaker may experience often. Filmmaking is not easy task despite the advanced tools we have.
It all begins with my unwavering passion and sense of purpose, reminding myself why I embarked on this journey in the first place. Managing my time wisely is essential, with structured schedules that include dedicated moments for relaxation and self-care, ensuring I maintain a balance between work and personal life.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and martial arts training, play a significant role in recharging my energy and staying grounded. I’ve also learned the importance of delegation, trusting others to share the workload, which has lightened the burden and allowed me to focus on what I do best.
Prioritizing physical health through regular exercise and a balanced diet is non-negotiable, both for staying in top shape for demanding roles and reducing stress. Learning to gracefully say ‘no’ when overcommitting is crucial in maintaining a manageable workload.
Short breaks during intense work periods are embraced, allowing me to step away from the set or my work desk, even for a few minutes, to maintain focus and reduce stress. And I’m fortunate to have a strong support network of friends and colleagues in the industry who understand the demands, making it easier to share experiences and challenges.
While burnout is a real concern in the industry as well as me, these strategies have allowed me to overcome it and continue to thrive in my acting, filmmaking and also martial arts career.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
“I’m deeply passionate about martial arts and filmmaking, and my journey in both fields has been incredibly exciting and fulfilling. As a martial artist, I’ve been studying various disciplines since the age of six. This journey led me to United States, where I had the chance to play a small role in Hollywood, which laid the foundation for my career.
What makes my journey truly special is the unique blend of martial arts and filmmaking. I’ve had the opportunity to fuse these two passions into my work, creating indie action films that have garnered attention and recognition. One of my most exciting projects, ‘The Judge of Mountains,’ earned praise in over 40 national newspapers, with some even likening it to Hollywood productions.
In the world of filmmaking, I’ve ventured into various roles, from acting and directing to working as a stuntman. I’ve even taken on the challenge of being a stuntman without relying on safety devices or special effects, emphasizing the importance of realism in my portrayal of characters.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The unwavering passion for what I do has been my driving force. It’s essential to truly love and believe in your craft. When you’re deeply passionate, the hard work, long hours, and challenges become opportunities rather than obstacles. My advice to those early in their journey is to find what genuinely ignites your passion and wholeheartedly embrace it. It’s the foundation upon which you can build a remarkable career.
So I would say first one is Passion and Dedication.
The ability to wear many hats and adapt to various roles in the industry has been a game-changer. I’ve transitioned from martial artist to actor, director, and stuntman. In filmmaking, knowing how to handle multiple aspects of production is invaluable. So, my advice is to be versatile and open to learning new skills. Embrace challenges and be willing to step into different roles; it’s a fantastic way to grow and stay relevant.
So second one for me is Versatility and Adaptability.
The journey in martial arts and filmmaking is not always smooth. It’s filled with setbacks, rejections, and physically demanding work. The resilience to bounce back from challenges and the grit to persevere through difficult times are indispensable. My advice to those starting out is to develop mental toughness and resilience. Embrace every failure as a lesson and use it to fuel your determination to improve and succeed.
And lastly I would say Resilience and Grit.
In essence, I’d say that nurturing your passion, remaining adaptable, and fostering resilience are the three pillars that can carry you through your journey. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth every bit of effort and dedication. So, stay true to your passion, keep learning, and never lose sight of your goals.”
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, which can happen in the challenging world of martial arts and filmmaking, I have a few strategies that help me regain my balance. First, I take a step back and prioritize tasks. It’s essential to identify what needs immediate attention and what can wait. Next, I practice deep breathing and mindfulness, which helps me center myself and reduce stress. Regular exercise is another powerful tool; it not only keeps me physically fit but also clears my mind.
I also find solace in connecting with my support network, whether that’s friends, mentors, or fellow artists in the industry. They understand the challenges I face and offer valuable insights and encouragement. And sometimes, a short break or change of scenery can do wonders. It’s amazing how a brief escape from the daily grind can provide a fresh perspective.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.azizcem.com
- Instagram: aziz.cem
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AzizCem
