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

Hi Olivia, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
I think one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made would have to be the choice to move the 3,000 miles across the country to follow my dreams here in Los Angeles. Moving was always something I wanted to do, since I was little I wanted to be an actress and be on the screen and make art for someone the same way I was inspired. I didn’t think this would be a hard decision, since I had always planned for it, but even the things you plan for can surprise you.

From birth until I was 21 years old I lived in Ohio, with my parents and siblings. A small town in Northern Ohio was all I really knew, and I thought that it would be the easiest thing to move. My cocky younger high school self wanted to get out of there so fast, but now that I’ve left I realize just how privileged I was. They always say “never take anything for granted” and you only realize how important and true it is until it happens.

To get to the point of this question, I don’t regret moving, but I didn’t think it would be this hard. While it’s hard, I know it’s for the best. I often have to remind myself that I’m young, and there’s no timeline in life. I didn’t realize how difficult leaving my friends and family would be, but that’s how I know I really want my dreams to happen – because I wouldn’t change it. I’d rather stick it out and try, then give it up and move home because I was sad.

To make a long story short, every decision is a hard one for me, because of the overlying “what if” thoughts. “What if I chose the wrong path?” “What if this changes everything?” Well yes, what if this does change everything- isn’t that the point? Every decision we make changes the trajectory of our lives, but life in the comfort isn’t a life worth living. It’s supposed to change & twist.

I miss my family, I miss my friends, but I know I’d miss this time if I hadn’t decided to give it my all. I’d never forgive myself because I was afraid. Fear isn’t a reason to give up, it’s a reason to keep going.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This is a tricky questions for me because I’m not at the peak of my career yet, and I don’t know if that’s something that can even be determined. Some people get asked their “I made it moment” and I’ve not experience that yet. Everyday I get a little closer to my dream, and everyday I notice a little bit more aware of just how special it all is.
Nothing in the world of art, or any career or dream is easy. Something I’ve learned is that it doesn’t matter how many times you hear “no” it just takes one “yes”. Thomas Edison failed to make the lightbulb 1,000 times, but on the 1,001 try it worked. I don’t think anyone should give up on something they have been dreaming of, because what if your “yes” is right around the corner.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you’re coming to LA immediately I’m taking you to La La Land Kind Cafe. I love the vibes here, it’s all about spreading kindness. Not to mention the coffee & toast here is to die for. If we’re going to sit and sip then I’d go over to Tartine Bakery in Santa Monica, so aesthetic and there’s tables outside to sit and talk. As someone who’s from Ohio, we only get to eat outside for a few months out of the year, so we will take it wherever we can. Lastly, since I grew up jumping in Lake Erie everyday of course I’d go to the beach. There’s this little spot in Malibu that I’ve been going to since I moved in January, my secret little haven.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly I want to give a shoutout to my Midwest people, born & raised!
More seriously I wanna give a shoutout to my mom, I’m so lucky to be able to have a mom who allows me to not just have dreams to run after them. She drove me to and from dance, gymnastics, acting classes, singing lessons, rehearsals, and countless movie sets and theaters. She’s not only an inspiration, but she’s my biggest supporter.
Before my mother there was my grandma, from whom I get my desire to create. I wanna make them proud and my gram is a huge part of why I won’t give up.
Of course I’m adding my siblings and best friend, they give the tough love I need to hear.
Lastly, my younger self who would journal everyday about making it on the big screen, who would watch movies on her little portable DVD player, if she could see me now, she’d say there’s still a long way to go but if I’m lucky enough to be alive & breathing then I’m lucky enough.
One day is sooner than you think.

Website: https://Www.olivialanger.net

Instagram: https://Olivia.Langer

Linkedin: Olivia Langer

Twitter: Olivialanger_

Facebook: Olivialanger

Other: Work Email: Olivialangerhq@gmail.com

Image Credits
Abbey Jo (@AbbeyJoPhotos on IG) & Eugenio (@Eu_ginoo).

 

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