Some books come laden with the promise of revelation and wonder, but “Will” didn’t initially seem to be one of them. Naturally, I was familiar with Will Smith — my favourite film of his remains Hitch 2005. Yet, I wondered, what insights could Will Smith possibly share in the book?
The answer became evident when I found myself zealously discussing this book with my partner throughout the week, so much so that she’d wince every time I brought it up. I pen this article now, convinced that this book holds the power to astonish you as well.
What were my key takeaways from this book?
- Like many biographies, “Will” has the power to inspire
- The narrative unfolds around an African American boy from a relatively affluent family, particularly for that era in the USA. He transcends his circumstances to become not just one of the highest-paid actors in 2021, but a reliably bankable star
- The story explores how our fears and weaknesses can transform into stimulants and foundations upon which we build success
- It’s a tale about the inexorable and unyielding march forward. Even in moments of powerlessness, he emphasizes the importance of taking a small step ahead
- The book is about maintaining one’s true self.
- The book is about belief and hard work: If I could wake up and start an hour earlier than everyone else, and stay an hour later than everyone else, and work through my lunch break, I would be gaining fifteen extra hours every week on the competition. That works out to 780 more productive hours in a year than the next guy – that’s the equivalent of one month. If you give me a one-month headstart on anybody, they’ll never catch me
- Will Smith conveys that even when a profession, in which you’ve invested substantial time and effort and have excelled, becomes obsolete, it’s not the end of the road
- The book delves into how we often impose limits on ourselves and continually reinforce these constraints
- The book explores staying vibrant at 55, forging new plans, and radiating positivity all around you