Mariska Hargitay revealed a quirky habit she picked up from playing Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU. In a candid interview, Mariska shared how her iconic character taught her to approach new places with a specific routine. Learn more about how this habit, inspired by Benson, has become part of her life both on and off-screen.
Mariska Hargitay’s Quirky Habit Revealed: The Benson Influence
Mariska Hargitay is well-known for her iconic portrayal of Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, a character who’s both tough and compassionate. But beyond her stellar acting, Hargitay recently shared a personal tidbit that reveals just how much her role has influenced her daily life. In a recent interview, she revealed a quirky habit she has when arriving in a new place, and surprisingly, it’s all thanks to Benson.
According to Hargitay, playing Olivia Benson for over two decades has had a profound impact on her. From the character’s instinct to assess her surroundings to her ability to make quick decisions, Hargitay admitted that much of what Benson does on-screen has translated into her own life. One of the habits that stuck with her the most involves taking a moment to “survey the area” whenever she enters a new environment, whether it’s a hotel room, a new city, or a filming location.
“It’s something Benson taught me,” Hargitay said with a smile. “Every time I walk into a new space, I just naturally take a few seconds to look around, to take it all in. It’s like a routine now.” For Hargitay, this seemingly simple habit has become a comforting ritual, a way to feel more grounded and secure, no matter where she is.
How Benson’s Instincts Became Mariska’s Routine
While many may think of Olivia Benson as a fierce and determined detective, her character also has a deep connection to the people and places around her. Mariska Hargitay credits this intuition to her portrayal of Benson, saying that her character’s ability to assess a situation and adapt quickly was something that “just made sense” to her as she continued playing the role.
Mariska reflected on how these instincts have seeped into her personal life, particularly when she travels. “It’s almost second nature now,” she explained. “I walk into a room and immediately start noticing the details—the layout, the lighting, the energy of the space. It’s a habit I never even realized I had until someone pointed it out.”
Over the years, Hargitay’s immersion in the role of Olivia Benson has not only sharpened her skills as an actress but has also taught her valuable life lessons. The ability to take a step back, observe, and mentally prepare for the environment around her has proven beneficial in both her professional and personal life.
The Benefits of Adopting Benson’s Habits Off-Screen
What’s fascinating about Mariska Hargitay’s quirky habit is how it has positively impacted her beyond the screen. While some might think of it as just a ritual, for Hargitay, it’s an important tool for grounding herself and staying calm in stressful situations.
In a way, Benson’s habit of observing her surroundings also serves as a metaphor for how Hargitay approaches her career. Whether she’s preparing for a tough scene on Law & Order: SVU or navigating her personal life, Hargitay’s ability to take a step back and assess a situation has allowed her to remain composed and make thoughtful decisions.
This habit has helped her stay mentally sharp and emotionally centered, both on set and off. It’s a reminder that even the smallest routines can have a lasting impact on our mindset and overall well-being. For Hargitay, adopting Benson’s observational instinct has provided her with a tool to navigate life’s challenges in a more balanced way.
Embrace the Habits That Help You Thrive
Mariska Hargitay’s quirky habit, inspired by her portrayal of Olivia Benson, is a perfect example of how art can influence life. What might seem like a small, everyday action—a moment of observation—has become an essential part of her daily routine. Whether you’re an actress or simply someone trying to navigate life’s ups and downs, learning to assess and adjust to your surroundings can be incredibly valuable.
So, the next time you walk into a new space, take a page from Mariska Hargitay’s book and take a moment to look around. You never know how such a simple act could positively impact your day.
Read more: Mariska Hargitay revealed the hard-to-talk-about reason why she has stayed with SVU for 25 years.
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