We were lucky to catch up with Gilda Mercado recently and have shared our conversation below.
Gilda , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I develop self-confidence by keeping my promises and doing what I say I will do. This makes me trust myself and my ability to accomplish anything. To break out of my comfort zone and try new things, especially those I want but am afraid to do because of the inescapable fear of failure as an actor and creative. However, I am confident that even if I fail, I will succeed with time because of my commitment, discipline, and work ethic.
By being kind and patient with myself and not comparing myself to others. Each person experiences unique journeys and timings, so that does not make me better or worse than anyone else. It is rare that I celebrate my accomplishments, be they small or large, but I am currently working on celebrating them. In this way, I can see my growth and validate and value who I am.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a Mexican actress, performer, director and theater maker. My focus has been on classical, modern, and Devised theater. Recently, I had the pleasure of playing Henry V in a Shakespeare showcase in NYC. My experience was exhilarating, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to play a new role.
In addition to theater, I am entering the film and television creative space, which is very exciting to me. Among the things I am most excited about in my career are exploring characters and worlds that will challenge me and push me to my limits. I also look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with other artists to explore a world and tell stories that will impact audiences, even if only one person.
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?
Some of the skills or quality’s that have significantly impacted my career as an actor and artist are:
My discipline. My commitment to doing things fully and well has enabled me to work and grow as an actor. This has allowed me to develop my acting abilities, be prepared for any project on which I work, and be free when I work or collaborate with other artists or disciplines.
My curiosity. This leads me to ask questions instead of looking for answers, and I think that helps me be open and listen without judgment. Consequently, this helps me find truth in scenes and characters.
Being true to myself, knowing my purpose, and giving everything I have as an actress and creative. Knowing your purpose and why you do what you do is important. There will always be ups and downs in this career, but if you love what you do and know why you do it, nothing can stop you.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
I guess it is believing in me and letting me know it. As an actor and artist, it is important to have your loved ones’—especially your parents’—support. Having the support of my community makes me feel less alone and reminds me to have fun along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gildamercado.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gildamarianamer/
Image Credits
The Image being featured is by Jeffrey Mosier and the one in Black and White is by Esteban Calderon
