"I knew an actor's career goes up and down and back up again. Your standing in this business can't be your whole identity; otherwise, you're doomed"

This quote by Lisa Kudrow talks to the significance of having a sense of self-regard that is not dependent on one's profession. As an actor, she understands that success is not ensured which one's standing in business can change rapidly. She is alerting that if one's identity is tied to their career, they will be doomed when their career undoubtedly goes through ups and downs. Rather, she is recommending that a person ought to have a sense of self-respect that is not depending on their profession. This might include having a strong sense of self, a helpful friends and family, and an enthusiasm for something beyond their career. By having a sense of self-respect that is not dependent on their profession, one can remain durable and hopeful even when their career is going through a hard period.