Meet Courtney Birk | Actress and Content Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Birk and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I was a certifiable workaholic. I feel like we are all running around wondering where all of our time goes. When my best friend Ashleigh and I started making movies, there wasn’t a time when we weren’t working. I thought that in order to be successful you had to spend every waking hour chasing your dream. I worked regardless of health or burnout. I can’t say only negative things about that workflow because there were a lot of great things that came out of it. We were able to make many short films and learn the necessary skills to make more complicated projects. But after a while, it was definitely starting to take a toll on my body and mind. There was nothing I wouldn’t do for film. I knew that when I moved to California, I had to make a change.

Forcing myself to take that time was not easy. But I now found myself working more efficiently in the time I had scheduled for work. The quality of work I was producing was much better than before. I was also a lot more energetic and positive. That positive mindset is pivotal to help you grow. Find ways to clear your head and give yourself a break. I now think of the work life balance as a beautiful element that is always changing and constantly growing. I learn more about myself every single day. When I give myself the permission to relax, my brain has time to explore. That exploration bleeds into my work and I make discoveries on how to be a better filmmaker. I can’t say there is anything better than that.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am most proud of the fact that I get to make films with my best friend. We have spent a lot of time cultivating our business relationship and our friendship in two different ways. That takes a lot of time and communication. I am extremely proud that we are able to tell stories that constantly challenge our opinions. We are always striving to better ourselves and make dynamic content. One of the biggest challenges was moving to California. The first two years of finding a job, networking, finding an apartment, all while trying to make films was incredibly taxing. Overcoming that challenge wasn’t easy. It took a lot of hard work and hustle. We worked multiple jobs, had a lot of sleepless nights, and had to remind ourselves of why we were here. The biggest lesson is to always put things into perspective. Make sure to reflect on not just the things that didn’t work, but the things that did. It can be incredibly daunting to thrive out here but having those constant reminders is extremely helpful.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The one place I always recommend for people to go is Huntington Library. I know that everyone loves to come to L.A and do all of the tourist stuff but this place is amazing. You don’t even feel like you’re in L.A. It was the first place that I felt complete peace. I felt transported to another world. I also always recommend used bookstores. They can be so quirky and fun. I am an avid reader so I love to check out new bookstores. The Last Bookstore is absolutely amazing. They have such a huge selection and there is something for everyone. You could easily get lost in the shelves and the store has two levels. I definitely recommend it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Ashleigh Coffelt deserves all of the credit for who I am today. I would not be here without her. She saw me and was patient with me through whatever I wanted to do. Her constant creativity and work ethic has been, and still is, the most inspiring thing to me. If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t be here. She has always been my biggest advocate and my best friend. She pushes me to constantly better myself and be the best I can be. To have such support is a game-changer and she gives me the courage to move forward. I will forever thank her for all that she has given me.

Website: courtneybirk.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iscoatknee/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneybirk/

Youtube: youtube.com/cainla