Getting Jiggy With It

Today’s piece is chock-full of nostalgia for me. I grew up watching The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, bouncing my head to Will Smith’s (clean) music, and watching his movies. This week I binge-read (listened) to his memoir. It was so incredible to get the behind the scenes peek into his life…but more about that below.

Additionally, I’ve included a short video clip by Simon Sinek and some quotes…both of which I think you’ll get a lot of value from. Enjoy!

The Book I’m Reading (Listening) To

I just finished Will by Will Smith. It is an incredible memoir chock-full of entertaining stories. Will Smith is one of the most dynamic and globally recognized entertainers of my time. In the book, he opens up fully about his life in a brave and inspiring way. He traces his learning curve to a place where outer success, inner happiness, and human connection are all aligned.  Will Smith’s transformation from a West Philadelphia kid to one of the biggest rap stars of his era, and then one of the biggest movie stars in Hollywood history, is an epic tale—but it’s only half the story.

This memoir is a brutally honest story of having to discover fulfillment and happiness while the rest of the world assumes you have it all.

Honestly, I loved the book because Will is such a gregarious guy. He’s a fantastic storyteller, and he will make you laugh and cry as he takes you through his upbringing and tells you the story behind the success.

A Video I Watched

This Simon Sinek interview clip is tremendous…“I’m an idiot.”. A good friend of mine sent me this video a few weeks back. It was a solid reminder to step out of your comfort zone. This is a fantastic video on why being “the idiot” in the room has a lot of value and is actually a good thing. But you also have to be a brave idiot and ask questions!

Quotes/Ideas I am Pondering

Remember that a plan for action is not a substitute for action.

Pay no attention to what the critics say; no statue has ever been put up to a critic.  

~ Jean Sibelius, Finnish composer

He who every morning plans the transactions of the day and follows out that plan carries a thread that will guide him through the labyrinth of the most busy life.  The orderly arrangement of his time is like a ray of light which darts itself through all his occupations.  But where no plan is laid, where the disposal of time is surrendered merely to the chance of incidents, chaos will soon reign.  

~ Victor Hugo, French poet and novelist