It’s been a crazy couple of months.
We’ve been editing Scream Queens season 2, while producing and editing two pilots. It reminded us of something:
Producing = Not Sleeping
We always talk about the importance of being a Hands-On Producer, of being able to step in to any position when money is tight — so that you can actually finish your project.
One thing we may have never said, though, is that means a lot of hours. A LOT.
Prepare Yourself for Battle
Awhile ago we made a list of things you should do before you go into any production to make sure you survive with minimal damage to your body and soul.
While item 3 on that list mentions “you won’t be sleeping” I realized that may be a point worth hitting again…seriously, YOU WON’T BE SLEEPING.
In the last two weeks alone, we’ve pulled about seven all nighters. Starbucks is very happy with us.
Going on no sleep affects you in many ways, so when the sleepless nights start, keep these 3 things in mind…
Be Careful
No sleep can be a necessary evil of the job. Accept that, but with EXTREME caution. I’ve spent more than one night sleeping in the edit bay because it was probably a bad idea to drive home.
Be Nice
When you’re tired, you can get cranky (just ask Joke…I’m not as good as I used to be on no sleep!) Realizing you haven’t slept, know that your temper might be short, and the expressions on your face may be…well, uh…less than inviting. Make sure the people around you know they’re not the cause of your angry-looking, scrunchy face.
Going on no sleep also means it’s probably the wrong time to finally “get something off your chest” and “speak your mind.” Luckily, I learned that one about ten years ago. (Sorry, my old Pizza Hut manager, but that’s a story for another day.)
Heal
No matter what you think the cost might be to your career, you must take some time off to heal. If you don’t schedule your “crash time” after a daunting project, you’ll burn out, screw up, and DEFINITELY hurt your career.
We all want to seem indestructible when proving and re-proving ourselves in such a tough industry. That’s fine…no one has to know you’re off “healing.”
Blame your time off on something else…you’re busy on another gig, family emergency…whatever. Keep up that workaholic front if you feel you need to…but carve out time to get back in top form. Your body, and your career, will thank you.