Jude Kelly

I made up plays in the back garden,I don't think I made the connection between the theatre profession and my creative excitement until I was about 12. Once I realised this, I decided I would be a theatre director. I inspired myself when I was young, I think that's very important. Listen to your own positive voices and try not to pay attention to the "inner critic" who will often cast doubt on your ideas and also creates fear.

I was inspired by the actors and directors of the Liverpool Everyman when I was a teenager: Pete Postlethwaite, Jonathan Pryce, Julie Walters, Sam Kelly, Alan Dosser were all there in an ensemble that was committed to risk-taking and audience contact.

They clearly believed in a relationship between their artistry and the communities they worked amongst.

I was inspired by my headmaster's belief in me. I was a maverick and some teachers found me difficult and individualistic. He told me to use the school hall at lunchtimes to create plays. I felt very empowered by that gesture of support.

I have often seen obstacles as opportunities to test my determination. Remember that people are nervous of the chaotic, unstable and financially erratic nature of the arts; they often try to dissuade you from making the choice that your own heart is insisting on. That's the time to remember to be inspired by yourself. Be a great parent to yourself, and give support and encouragement to the risk-taker inside you.