FLASHBACK: Brenda Dickson - Tips From An Active Actress 1977

Tips From an Active Actress

By Lydia Lane
Los Angeles Times
March 25, 1977

- Brenda Dickson has been in CBS' THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS since it began, and her enthusiasm for daytime television remains high.

"By working eveyr day I learn a great deal about acting and about people. When you're part of a small group working in such close relationship for so many long hours, harmony is a necessity; friction slows schedules and saps energy. Many talented actors are written out of scripts because of their egotism or inability to get along with their co-workers.

"I learned that you can destroy yourself if you carry a grudge. If you can't dismiss an unpleasant incident, then discuss it. Often, longstanding friendships are broken because of trifles or a misunderstanding that could have been resolved if both parties had been able to tell their side.

"I think openness, a willingness to admit you were in the wrong, or the courage to defend a point of view, is helpful in marriage and business; it will save a lot of energy. I've learned that nothing saps your energy faster than emotional stress."

I was astonished at how fresh Brenda looked when we met for tea after her day's work. "I think survival depends on good health, and for me to feel well it's essential that I sleep well. I have never taken sleeping pills. I'm against them, but I can highly recommend zinc and calcium capsules for relaxation and for encouraging a good night's rest. I have a friend who was troubled by insomnia until he took these capsules."

Brenda is 5-foot-5 and small-boned so she likes to keep her weight at 108.

"I can easily maintain 115, but on carmera one looks heavier, so I've worked out a plan that doesn't take away from my energy but will hold the line. I take smaller portions, eat slowly and make my last meal no later than 6 o'clock. I think this can work with everyone because you aren't changing old habits, just cutting down."