We were lucky to catch up with Eric Cota recently and have shared our conversation below.
Eric, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever head any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?
I get Creativity Blocks ALL THE TIME. It’s something I still struggle with, and probably always will. However, I’ve found that external accountability and creative stimulation has been very helpful. The accountability is important – I try to set deadlines for myself but I sometimes struggle with maintaining the discipline to complete them. To overcome this, I have a bit of a hack: community college.
As someone who transferred to a university from a community college, I know the underrated value of a cc. Many community colleges offer extension classes, which are a more affordable and less rigorous alternative to a full-time class. They come in a variety of subjects, ranging from photography to fitness, and typically meet only once a week.
I’ve taken a few extension classes at Los Angeles City College (LACC), including acting and writing classes. These classes are sometimes taught by industry professionals (especially in Los Angeles), so they’re a great way to network while also learning a craft. They have helped with my creative block by giving me a bit of structure while also engaging my creative side. These are especially great if you are on a budget, since many 5 to 6 week classes are priced under $200. I highly recommend checking extension classes out, regardless of your level of expertise.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
A few months ago, I decided to pursue my passion of Film and TV full time. This decision came after I was laid off from a great county job I had for years. They informed me of my termination on my 28th birthday (and they did it at my birthday dinner!), which I took as a sign. I told myself: “I’m still young, I live in Los Angeles, and I have a lot of money saved. If I don’t try now, when will I?” So I took the plunge.
After a few months of training and self-exploration, with the help of my acting coach Nancy Friedman and my stand-up comedy teacher Christian Cinturon, I have branded myself as an actor, comedian and writer.
Recently, I have been in a few projects, including my first stand-up show at Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank and starring in a psychological thriller short film. The goal is to expand my social media presence so that my work can reach a broader audience. With my first stand-up set garnering a lot of support amongst my followers on Instagram, I plan to keep the momentum flowing.
I have an upcoming stand-up show at Flappers, which will be on November 21st in the club’s Yoo Hoo room. In the coming months, I plan on performing at various open mics in Los Angeles.
If you ever wanted to see when/where I’ll be performing, you can check out either my Instagram, @ericccota, or my website – ericcota.com.
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?
I would say the 3 most important things that have helped me are:
1. Professionalism
2. Responsibility
3. Perspective
Professionalism is important. I have always prided myself in how I apply respect, timeliness, and diligence to my work. Whether it’s at a 9-5 or on a film set, how you conduct yourself is crucial. If you are rude and unprepared, you will gain a reputation and lose out on important opportunities. There have been multiple instances where my professionalism has opened doors and advanced my career. When I was a baby producer at my college’s media company, my dedication and work ethic earned respect amongst my peers, who in turn helped me out with projects I needed help with.
If I wasn’t responsible with my finances, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my dreams. This is something that takes time too. In my early 20’s, I was not financially literate. At 28 I’m still not perfect, but I have learned a lot of lessons and have grown. SAVE YOUR MONEY! RESEARCH AND LEARN ABOUT CREDIT! Take accountability for your actions and learn from your mistakes.
Something that I find invaluable is the perspective I have gained in my 20s. One of the best things I ever did was decide to study abroad, an experience that opened my eyes to the beauty of culture, society, and love. Gaining perspective will change your outlook on life, something that has given me wisdom, drive, and purpose.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My mom has always been there for me. Even as a single mom, she always made time and showed up. While juggling a son and a full time job as a teacher, she was still able to earn her Master’s.
Her unconditional love allowed me to have confidence and embrace who I am. She introduced me to culture, taking an uninterested 10 year old Eric to the museum, symphony, and theatre.
She’s smart, pushing me to finish school and teaching me the importance of education and the power it holds.
She was tough. Looking back, I can appreciate her firm parenting style as something that helped me develop a thick skin and independence.
She taught me to be skeptical – if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
Her hard work and dedication showed me that being a responsible problem-solver is key in achieving your goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ericcota.com
- Instagram: @ericccota
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ericchristophercota/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ericccota
- Other: Actor’s Access: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/ericcota
Image Credits:
Main photo: Peter Konerko
