Feelings are inclinations and emotions have more depth. Acting is an art form that demands authenticity, depth, discipline and control. While many aspiring actors believe that strong feelings make a performance powerful, true professionals understand that emotions—harnessed, shaped, and expressed with precision—are the key to delivering compelling, truthful performances.

The distinction between feelings and emotions may seem subtle, but it makes a world of difference in an actor’s craft. Amateurs often rely on personal moods and uncontrolled feelings, while professionals learn how to access, manage, and sustain emotions for their performances. This article explores the difference between feelings and emotions, why amateurs struggle with feelings, and how professionals use emotions to create believable and powerful performances.

Understanding the Difference Between Feelings and Emotions

Before diving into acting techniques, it’s essential to define the key differences between feelings and emotions:

Feelings are personal, subjective, and fleeting. They are influenced by a person’s mood, surroundings, or past experiences. They can be unpredictable and may not always align with what a scene requires.
Emotions, on the other hand, are structured, repeatable, and controlled responses that actors can call upon at will. Emotions are linked to specific stimuli and psychological triggers and can be shaped to serve the story.

Link: 2100+ Emotions Compendium Available Now!!
Link: MEISNER ACTIVITIES. ORDER NOW!

In acting:

We have to understand that feelings change a lot quicker than emotions do. Emotional depth may change but the overall color stays in the same emotion.

Amateurs rely on how they “feel” in the moment, leading to inconsistent performances.
Professionals train themselves to create emotions on demand, ensuring authentic, repeatable, and nuanced performances.

Why Amateurs Struggle with Feelings

Many beginner actors make the mistake of relying solely on their own personal feelings instead of developing emotional techniques. This can lead to several problems:

1. Inconsistency in Performance

Feelings are unpredictable—what an actor feels one day may not be the same the next. This inconsistency makes it impossible to deliver the same powerful performance in every take or show.

2. Self-Consciousness & Overthinking

When actors focus too much on their feelings, they get trapped in their own heads. They may judge their performance instead of staying present in the scene, which makes their acting appear stiff and unnatural.

3. Emotional Blocks & Fear

If an actor depends on their own feelings, they may struggle when a scene demands an emotion they don’t naturally feel at that moment. This can create emotional blocks, leading to forced or weak performances.

4. The Trap of “Indicating”

Amateurs often try to “show” emotions instead of experiencing them authentically. This leads to exaggerated, artificial performances, where actors mimic emotions instead of truly living in them.

5. Personalizing Too Much

Some actors rely heavily on personal memories or emotional recall (e.g., thinking of a sad memory to cry on cue). While this can work occasionally, it can also drain an actor emotionally and make their performances feel inward-focused rather than character-driven.

YOUTUBE video: Amateurs use Feelings, Professionals use Emotional Preparation

How Professionals Use Emotions Effectively

Professional actors understand that emotions must be controlled, shaped, and repeated to create a compelling performance. Here’s how they achieve that:

1. Emotional Preparation

Instead of waiting to “feel” an emotion naturally, professional actors use specific techniques to prepare their emotions before a scene. This could involve:

Meisner’s Emotional Preparation – Connecting to imaginary circumstances that create a real emotional state.
Stanislavski’s Affective Memory – Calling upon personal experiences in a structured way to create an authentic response.
Physical Triggers – Using breathing, posture, and movement to activate emotions.

2. Substitution & Personalization

Rather than relying on random feelings, professionals use substitution techniques—they replace the situation in the script with a real-life equivalent to generate an emotional response. The key difference? They remain in control of how they access and shape that emotion.

3. Emotional Availability & Control

Great actors train themselves to access emotions quickly and release them just as fast. This balance of being open to emotions while maintaining control over them allows for:

Raw, truthful performances
The ability to stay present in the scene
Emotional resilience (avoiding burnout)

4. Living Truthfully Under Imaginary Circumstances

Meisner emphasized that acting is about reacting honestly in the moment. Professionals don’t force emotions—they let them arise naturally through deep listening, strong objectives, and committed actions.

5. Using Actions to Generate Emotion

Instead of chasing feelings, professionals focus on doing. They understand that:

Emotions come from actions (e.g., “pleading” can lead to desperation, “consoling” can lead to compassion).
By fully committing to a character’s intentions and obstacles, emotions naturally emerge.

6. Practicing Emotional Range

A skilled actor trains their emotional muscles, just like an athlete trains their body. This means:

Exploring a full range of emotions (not just their “go-to” ones).
Experimenting with different emotional triggers to expand their depth.
Practicing emotional agility—being able to shift emotions on cue.

Link: 2100+ Emotions Compendium Available Now!!
Link: MEISNER ACTIVITIES. ORDER NOW!

The Key to Professional-Level Acting: Emotional Repeatability

One of the most significant differences between amateurs and professionals is the ability to repeat emotions across multiple takes or performances. A professional actor can:

Access the same emotional depth night after night on stage.
Deliver consistent emotions across multiple film takes, ensuring continuity.
Maintain emotional control and stamina over long shooting days.

This repeatability is what separates great actors from inconsistent ones.

Conclusion: Mastering Emotional Acting

The phrase “Amateurs use feelings, professionals use emotions” is a fundamental truth in acting. While feelings are personal, unpredictable, and inconsistent, emotions are trainable, repeatable, and usable for storytelling.

Key Takeaways:

Feelings are unreliable—professionals learn how to craft and control emotions.
True acting isn’t about personal moods—it’s about living truthfully in the scene.
Emotional preparation, action-based techniques, and deep listening create authentic emotions.
Professionals develop emotional repeatability, ensuring strong, consistent performances.

By shifting from reacting based on feelings to creating emotions with technique, actors unlock their full potential and become powerful storytellers.

Let’s look at the definitions, then we will have Final Thoughts:

Here are two definitions of feelings:

Psychological Definition: Feelings are the conscious experience of emotions, shaped by personal interpretation, past experiences, and thought processes. They are subjective and can vary in intensity based on individual perception.
Acting & Performance Definition: In acting, feelings refer to the internal, spontaneous emotional states an actor experiences, which may or may not align with the actors needs. Unlike controlled emotions, feelings are often fleeting and unpredictable, making them unreliable for consistent performance.

Here are two definitions of emotions:

Psychological Definition: Emotions are complex psychological and physiological responses to stimuli, involving feelings, thoughts, bodily reactions, and behaviors. They are triggered by internal or external events and play a key role in decision-making, motivation, and social interactions.
Acting & Performance Definition: In acting, emotions are intentional and repeatable expressive states that actors access and control to create believable performances. Unlike fleeting feelings, emotions in acting are structured, trainable, and shaped to serve the actor and storytelling.

Final Thoughts:

If you know the difference between your own feelings and your own emotions as an Actor you are ahead of almost all other actors. You may be aware of your feelings vs your emotions for some things and not others. It is natural to have to learn differences between these two acting elements.

Simon Blake

Master the Art of Meisner: 3 Books to Transform Your Acting Skills

If you’re looking to elevate your acting skills, understanding the Meisner technique can be a game changer. This approach emphasizes genuine emotional responses and truthful interactions, which can help you connect more deeply with your characters and your audience. By mastering these skills, you not only enhance your performances but also gain a greater appreciation for the craft of acting itself. In this article, you will discover three essential books that can guide you on your journey to becoming a more authentic actor.

Top Picks

Best Overall: Sanford Meisner on Acting – $11.36
Best Value: Reasons To Knock In Improv: Improvisation Drama Exercise Ideas Book – $21.99
Best for Activities: Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation – $21.99

How to Choose the Right Meisner Books

When choosing the right books to enhance your understanding of the Meisner technique, consider factors such as the depth of content, practical exercises, and the author’s background. Each of these books offers unique insights and approaches to the Meisner method, making them valuable resources for both beginners and seasoned actors.

Sanford Meisner on Acting

This book is a deep dive into the world of acting through the eyes of Sanford Meisner, one of the most revered acting teachers. It follows a class over fifteen months, showcasing everything from basic exercises to polished scenes from contemporary plays. You’ll find Meisner’s teaching style both engaging and insightful, making it a must-read for anyone serious about acting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned actor, this book offers practical techniques and a fresh perspective on the craft. It’s like having a front-row seat to a masterclass in acting, and honestly, it’s a casual recommendation for anyone looking to elevate their skills.

What People Say

Readers rave about how Meisner’s approach demystifies acting and makes it accessible. Many appreciate the blend of personal anecdotes and practical exercises, which help to ground the lessons in real-world application.

I bought this book thinking it would be a chore, but it turned out to be WONDERFUL! The writing is engaging, and it feels like you’re right there in the classroom with Meisner. His insights into acting are profound, and the way he interacts with his students is both inspiring and entertaining.- D. Perelstein

Pros and Cons

Pros:

In-depth look at Meisner’s techniques
Engaging narrative style
Suitable for both beginners and experienced actors

Cons:

Some may find the format unconventional
Not a traditional acting textbook

Why You’ll Love This Book

Learn from a master acting teacher
Engaging and easy-to-read format
Practical exercises to improve your craft

When to Read This Book

This book is perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of acting techniques, whether you’re preparing for auditions, taking classes, or simply want to appreciate the art of performance more fully.

Current Price: $11.36

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 1823+)Buy Now

YOUTUBE video: Amateurs use Feelings, Professionals use Emotional Preparation

Reasons To Knock In Improv

This book is your go-to guide for unlocking the power of improvisation in acting. Written by Simon Blake, it dives into practical exercises that can transform your approach to performance. You’ll discover how improvisation can enhance your creativity, strengthen relationships, and improve your decision-making skills. Whether you’re preparing for a role or just looking to add some spontaneity to your acting, this book is a casual recommendation that fits perfectly into any drama program or personal practice. It’s like having a trusted friend guiding you through the nuances of improv, making it both relatable and easy to grasp.

What People Say

Readers love how this book breaks down complex improvisational concepts into manageable exercises. Many have noted significant improvements in their acting skills and personal growth, thanks to the practical advice and relatable anecdotes.

This book has completely changed my approach to acting. The exercises are not only fun but also incredibly effective in building confidence and spontaneity. I found myself thinking more creatively and connecting better with my scene partners.- A. Thompson

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Engaging and practical exercises
Boosts emotional intelligence
Great for both beginners and seasoned actors

Cons:

Some exercises may require a partner
Not a traditional acting textbook

Why You’ll Appreciate This Book

Enhances creativity and spontaneity
Improves communication and relationships
Practical exercises for real-world application

When to Dive Into This Book

This book is ideal for actors looking to enhance their improvisational skills, whether you’re rehearsing for a play, participating in workshops, or simply wanting to boost your confidence in everyday interactions.

Current Price: $21.99

Rating: 4.8 (Total: 256+)Buy Now

Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation

This book is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Meisner technique through practical activities. Authored by Simon Blake, it offers over 150 engaging exercises designed to enhance your improvisation skills. Whether you’re preparing for a performance or just want to explore your creativity, this book provides a structured yet flexible approach to acting. It’s perfect for both solo practice and group settings, making it a versatile addition to your acting toolkit.

What People Say

Readers appreciate how this book breaks down the Meisner technique into accessible activities. Many have shared that the exercises not only improve their acting skills but also help them feel more comfortable and spontaneous in their performances.

The exercises in this book are incredibly practical and fun. I’ve noticed a significant boost in my confidence and ability to connect with my fellow actors. It’s like having a personal coach guiding you through each activity.- M. Johnson

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Comprehensive and varied exercises
Great for both beginners and experienced actors
Encourages creativity and emotional depth

Cons:

Some activities may require a partner
Not a traditional textbook format

Why This Book Stands Out

Enhances stage presence and emotional expression
Fosters collaboration and teamwork among actors
Offers a wide range of improvisational exercises

When to Use This Resource

This book is ideal for actors preparing for auditions, participating in workshops, or simply looking to enhance their improvisational skills in everyday situations. It’s a great way to practice and refine your craft.

Current Price: $21.99

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 150+)Buy Now

FAQ

What can I expect to learn from the books on Meisner’s technique?

When you dive into these books, you can expect to gain a deep understanding of Sanford Meisner’s approach to acting, which emphasizes emotional truth and genuine connection with your scene partners. You’ll learn about the core principles of the Meisner technique, including repetition exercises and emotional preparation. These concepts are designed to help you break down barriers and access authentic emotions, making your performances more truthful and impactful. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, these insights can significantly enhance your acting skills.

Are these books suitable for someone new to acting?

Absolutely! While the books are rich in detail and depth, they are also accessible to newcomers. They provide a solid foundation in Meisner’s techniques, making them a great starting point for anyone interested in acting. You might find some concepts challenging at first, but that’s part of the learning process. Just keep an open mind and be willing to revisit sections as you grow in your understanding. Many readers have found that these books not only teach acting techniques but also inspire a deeper appreciation for the craft.

How can I effectively use these books in my acting practice?

To get the most out of these books, consider pairing your reading with practical exercises. Try to implement the techniques you learn in your own acting practice or with a partner. You can set up a regular schedule to read a chapter and then practice the exercises described. Additionally, if possible, join an acting class or workshop that focuses on Meisner’s technique. This way, you can receive feedback and guidance while applying what you’ve learned. Remember, acting is a skill that improves with practice, so be patient and persistent in your journey.

Wrapping Up

In summary, mastering the Meisner technique can significantly enhance your acting abilities. The books highlighted in this article provide a solid foundation for understanding and applying this method. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your skills, these resources will help you connect more authentically with your craft. By investing time in these readings, you are taking a crucial step towards becoming a more effective and truthful actor.

	Sanford Meisner on Acting	Reasons To Knock In Improv: Improvisation Drama Exercise Ideas Book	Meisner Activities: Drama Activities for Improvisation

Rating	4.7/5	N/A	N/A
Highlights	272 pages, Vintage edition, Insight into Meisner’s technique	223 pages, Independently published, Focus on improv exercises	159 pages, Independently published, Activities based on Meisner’s techniques
Pros	Engaging writing style, Deep insights into acting, Historical significance	Practical exercises for actors, Useful for improv training	Great for drama classes, Engaging activities for students
Cons	Not for complete beginners	No rating available yet	No rating available yet
Price	$11.36	$21.99	$21.99
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now