Jennifer Garner never imagined she'd become an actor: "Acting has always been challenging for me."

Jennifer Garner had different plans for her future before becoming an award-winning actress.

From a young age, the "Alias" star was committed to ballet dancing and didn't envision acting as part of her future.

In an episode of the podcast "Lipstick on the Rim," Garner, 52, recounted the people who influenced her life while conversing with her friends Molly Sims and Emese Gormley.

Garner thanked the individuals who influenced her growth, including the teacher who wrote a letter commending her for earning a scholarship to the North Carolina School of the Arts summer dance program.

Garner's reduced interest in on-screen work was noticed by Sims, who wondered how the actress managed to balance her demanding dance schedule with her acting career.

"Garner stated, "I never intended to become an actor. I didn't believe it was a possibility. I never considered it. There are numerous jobs I've always wanted to do. I still feel that way. I'm always considering going back to school to study. I'm not sure. However, it became an extracurricular that consumed my life. As a result, I danced every day after school.""

Garner taught ballet to children and held classes and rehearsals with her dance company daily, followed by weekend practices.

"Well, I never wanted... I didn't think I would be an actor. I didn't think that that was a possibility." — Jennifer Garner

"Although I was quite narrow-minded, my dad would always encourage me to focus on something tangible to study and prepare for, saying, 'Jennifer, it's great that you're pursuing this, but don't you think you should be concentrating on something more substantial to study and prepare for?'" she said.

"My older sister was valedictorian, and she's brilliant. I think he just so badly wanted me to follow her, and I was a good student, but I was definitely distracted."

Garner corrected Sims, stating, "I wasn't following a dream."

She stated, "My love for it wasn't like a dream. It was real. I followed my love. I had so much love for it and still do. I want to be better at it, but it's never been my dream to X, Y, and Z. I don't see myself in that way. I just love what I do and it's always been challenging. I really want to do my best."

In addition to discussing her children with ex-husband Ben Affleck, Garner also shared more details about her personal life and how she was coping with grief following her father's death, William, seven months prior.

Garner maintained a positive outlook during a difficult period, despite Sims' inquiry about how he managed to do so.

"Garner stated, "Molly, you know better than anyone that I don't always have it together. You're in the same boat, and it's important to find friends who can handle that with you. Think back to how many times I've come to your house and cried because I felt safe with you.""

She added, "I got super emotional and you stopped to help me. You asked what I needed to do and I said I should go home. You walked me to my car, gave me a hug, and sent me on my way. We just need each other and to give ourselves permission to be where we are and have faith in the sun on the other side of the clouds."