Maryann Axelsen
Actress/Model/ FT Mother
For those just breaking into the arena, the allure may well lie in the opportunity to try
something completely different. I was a conservative, corporate girl gone Family Manager,
utilizing the requisite skills of chauffer, chef, seamstress, religious educator, nurse,
cheerleader, and sports and extracurricular activities coordinator. Life became a series of “If
You Give a Mouse a Cookie” excerpts. Each activity led to the next in a whirlwind of
dizzying succession that even gives the family members’ color coded calendar a run for its
money. While the volunteer circuit, decorating committees and PTA certainly have their
places and are extremely fulfilling in their own right, an internal clock similar to its female
child-bearing cousin, was ticking. As enjoyable as they are, another balloon arch
construction, science project assistant position, or committee to preside over was not going to
quench the awakening need for self-fulfillment. In particular, the need for some imaginative
work inspired through any of varied avenues, including acting, directing, modeling, voiceover,
commercial print, music, writing, producing or any combination thereof. So, I set forth and
became immersed in the world of princesses, sixties women, waitresses, casino gamblers,
office workers, homeless people, rock and rollers, race car drivers, mobsters, detectives,
pilots, doctors, patients, and indeed, even mothers.
Every new day offers a different role or unique path to follow on the adventurous
journey. The immeasurable captivation that keeps me continuing down the road is comprised
of exactly that boundless opportunity along with having met a network of colleagues. These
incredible people not only provide comic fodder in the story of my life, but companionship,
human connection, and, of course, support in the workplace. We share; whether it’s witty
anecdotes on social media posts, drinks, business cards, and information at a networking
event, photos and memories of mutual projects, tidbits of advice and wisdom pertaining to the
industry, or available opportunities, we maintain a connection in an industry known as
cutthroat and highly competitive. Those very connections are a cherished addition to my life.
A message repeatedly imparted to my children – if there is something you want to do
in this life; then immerse yourself in the task of learning. If you’re not “failing,” by way of
continuous attempts to refine or fine tune your efforts, then you’re not seriously trying. If
there is no stretch to the abilities then hence, there is no feeling of reward for an endeavor
accomplished. It is permissible and highly encouraged to make changes as you move through
the phases of your life. It is not failure to try, then rework plans and undertake a revised
version of the original vision. It is, in fact, success when being courageous and brave enough
to open up to vulnerability and skepticism. One area or instance does not define a person; b ut
rather his or her collective experiences shape the overall perspective. Grant yourself the
opportunity to work out the kinks in the venture. If my children take nothing else to heed
from my infinite wealth of wisdom, I certainly hope this message gets engrained.