The world was devastated to hear of the passing of Actor Chadwick Boseman, known for his roles as Black Panther, Get On Up, and other great films and shows. He’s been one of my favorite actors since the late 2000s and I’m absolutely heartbroken that he’s gone.
Today’s Words of Wisdom from him are words that I needed to be reminded of today. I hope they inspire you to make the right decisions for your life and career.
In this clip from HBO Sports’ The Shop, Chad sat down with other entertainers and athletes and was talking about the choices he made in his career. He refused to take roles that didn’t match with his own desires or personal character. “I would even say, because I said no at certain times, it made me available for the things that got me to where I am.” the actor said. “If I become something that I’m not supposed to become, I’m in the wrong place, whether I made it in other people’s eyes or not.”
Watch Chad’s words below.
View this post on Instagrampurpose. don’t let another day go by w/o KNOWING who you are. RIP @chadwickboseman
WHEW. I FELT THAT. I tell people all the time that not every opportunity or person is for you, and I mean that wholeheartedly. I wouldn’t take different writing gigs or participate in certain events simply because they didn’t line up with who I was as a person or what I wanted to portray to others. I’ve had to walk away from people in my life for those same reasons too. Saying no at certain moments, based on knowing myself, opened the door for more opportunities and growth than I could have imagined.
In navigating your personal and professional life, you have to know who you are, what you want, and what you will or will not accept. Otherwise, you are liable to be doing whatever, whenever, however, for attention, clout, and money, etc., at the cost of your soul and character. I believe that saying no to the wrong opportunities or people will open the door for the right ones, even if it may not seem like it at the time.
These are wise words to remember from a person whose grace and humility shined throughout his time on this earth. Rest well, King.
