“Why Am I Bad at Acting?” (And What To Do About It)

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

Let’s just say the quiet part out loud: sometimes you feel like you’re bad at acting.

You walk out of an audition and immediately want to delete the memory. You get a note in rehearsal that you thought you already addressed. You watch yourself on tape and cringe. It happens.

And the question sneaks in: Am I just not good at this?

But here’s the thing—“bad at acting” is a vague, judgment-heavy statement that usually means one of two things:

1. Something’s not working yet.

2. You’re holding yourself to impossible standards.

Either way, let’s flip the question. Instead of “Why am I bad at acting?” ask: Where am I struggling, and how do I get better?

Here are a few places to start—with concrete exercises that were given to me by my directors that may help you move forward.

You’re Playing the Emotion, Not the Objective

If your performances feel flat or forced, it might be because you’re trying to feel something instead of do something. Acting is action. Characters want things. That’s what drives a scene.

Try this:
Pick a monologue and write down:

  • What does my character want?

  • Who are they talking to?

  • What tactics are they using to get what they want?

Then, run the piece, focusing on achieving the goal—not “feeling the feelings.” Let the emotion come from the pursuit.

Your Voice and Body Need Attention

If your work feels stiff or disconnected, it might be your instrument—not your talent—that needs tuning. A tight jaw, shallow breath, or slouchy posture can hold back a whole performance.

Try this:
Start a 10-minute daily warm-up:

  • Stretch your body (neck, shoulders, spine)

  • Do breathing exercises (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6)

  • Run tongue twisters slowly, then faster
    Your presence will shift when your instrument is open.

You’re Not Listening

Acting isn’t just talking—it’s reacting. A common trap? Pre-planning your delivery instead of living in the moment with your scene partner.

Try this:
In rehearsal, do a “repetition” exercise from Meisner training. Use the same phrase back and forth, responding only to behavior and tone. It rewires your instincts to listen and respond, not perform.

You’re Not Practicing Enough

This one’s tough love. If you only act when you’re cast, you’re not building the muscle. Actors practice too.

Try this:
Film a short monologue or scene every week. Watch it back. Notice what’s working and what’s not. Over time, you’ll spot patterns—and growth.

If you’re feeling “bad” at acting, it probably just means you’re in a stretch zone. That’s not failure—it’s progress in disguise. So don’t give up. Get specific. Get curious. And get to work.

You’re not bad. You’re building.

EducationChristopher PetersonChris Peterson