J.J.R. Taylor
Learn what actors know about the human mind — and how you can use it, too.
How the Performing Arts Toolkit Can Help You Thrive Anytime, Any Place, and with Anyone
Being human is a learned skill.
A common thread found in human failures, both personal and professional, is the soul-crushing feeling from lack of choices in the moment. People find themselves caught up in situations where so much is being asked of them — they don't know how to respond. We don't automatically see our choices.
"We don't rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our training."
— Archilochus, Greek lyrical poet
Those trained in the modern performing arts learn how to use real emotions in imaginary circumstances — how to develop a mindset to build character, theory of mind, and to live in the moment.
What if you could use these same skills to harness and develop your mind and emotions for the reality of everyday life? The techniques that make actors superstars on the stage can make you a superstar in life.
I have been asked a lot about the cover art. To me it was a definite choice. I had many other options that were very good and professionally done. The problem was they looked like most every other book I saw that I would be competing against.
It was more than that. I wanted my cover to be a piece of art in itself. The mind, the emotions, wrapped in an infinite dance of variables that burn the brain and bleed the heart. Our spirit, the core of us as a being, is our art to create.
Life is about what we can make of it in the time we are given. I wanted my book cover to reflect that by stopping the reader to contemplate what they are looking at before they even pick it up. I didn't want a cover that would sell, I wanted one that would make people think.
— J.J.R. Taylor
"Unique perspective on assuming different identities at will for both career and personal purposes. I've never read a book that does what this one does — namely, it suggests that you can amplify your career and personal success by adopting different personas."
— Alicia
"I wish I had this book years ago. So very insightful, it brings together acting techniques with real life. This book does that in a very clear and eloquent way. Loved this book from beginning to end. A must have for actors and non-actors alike."
— Rivka
"This book came to me during a very difficult time. It helped me learn how to empower myself. We all are facing our own demons. I urge you to find your light and peace through the teachings of this book and the performing arts."
— Vida
"There is so much to take away from the perspective that this book provides. I'm a socially awkward person at the best of times and this book gave me some much needed guidance on how to prepare myself for the unexpected and be able to walk away from an encounter with my confidence still intact!"
— Desriee
Gaining Mental and Emotional Literacy through the Actors' Intangible Toolkit.
The second book by J.J.R. Taylor is in progress. Building on the foundation of All Your Best Selves, this book goes deeper into the science and practice of mental and emotional literacy — and the case for why it should be taught everywhere.
Learn More About the Project
The tools are here. The techniques are proven. The work of building yourself mentally, emotionally, and deliberately starts now.
Buy All Your Best Selves