"I don't think that when you have kids you should do movies just to please other people. You should do movies that you can be proud of. "

When you have kids, it's crucial to make choices that you can stand by with pride and integrity, rather than simply trying to make others happy. This idea is particularly relevant to working in a high-visibility career such as acting, where the pressure to conform to others' expectations can be intense. But it applies broadly across many areas of life.

Think about it: when you become a parent, your kids start looking up to you as a role model. They see your actions, hear your words, and learn what it means to live a life of substance. Your choices don't just affect you anymore; they impact how your children view the world and their place in it. This philosophy isn't just about career choices; it’s about teaching kids the value of authenticity and self-respect.

Take the example of an actor who decides to star in a film that aligns with their values, even if it might not be a box office hit. Imagine Adam, a successful actor renowned for his work in action films. After the birth of his first child, he began to reconsider the roles he accepted. Instead of continuing with the high-octane, often shallow roles that paid well and pleased the masses, Adam started to focus on scripts that told meaningful stories or had a strong moral message. He wanted his kids to look back and see films that he could be proud of, not just popular ones.

Choosing roles that resonate with your principles might mean turning down lucrative offers, but it's about the long-term picture. Imagine your child asking about the projects you worked on; wouldn't you rather share something that taught them about courage, kindness, or integrity, rather than just saying, "Well, it made a lot of money"?

Here's some advice on how to apply this wisdom: start by identifying what values are crucial to you. What kind of messages do you want to pass on to your children? Use this as a filter for making decisions, whether it's in your career or personal life. It might be hard to turn down appealing offers initially, but aligning your actions with your values will pay off in the long run.

Let’s say you’re a graphic designer. You’re offered a high-paying gig to create ads for a company whose values don’t align with yours—maybe they exploit workers or aren't environmentally friendly. Even though it’s tempting to take the job for the money, think about what message that sends to your kids. Instead, you choose projects that promote social good or sustainability. Sure, it might not always be the most lucrative choice, but you'll be able to look your kids in the eye and say you stood by your principles.

Now picture this: you're at the dinner table, chatting with your teenager about their day. They mention a dilemma they faced about peer pressure. This is your chance to share your own story about making tough choices that align with your values. Your honesty and integrity will shine through, providing a powerful lesson for them—one they’re likely to carry forward into their own lives.

So, whether it's movies, a 9-to-5 job, or any other endeavor, the core idea remains: make choices you’re proud of, especially when little eyes are watching. It’s not always the easiest path, but it's the one that builds character, both in you and in your kids.