In this Edition
1. Anne Hathaway and Les Miserables
2. Inspirational Quote
3. Recommended Reading
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Anne Hathaway and Les Miserables
I am a big fan of Les Mis. I have seen the stage version around the world six times and enjoyed it each time. Out of curiosity and skepticism, I recently watched the movie, and found it excellent as well. Anne Hathaway, the USA born actress who picked up the Best Supporting Actress award at the recent Oscars, was full of passion. Her outstanding performance as Fantine and her version of “I Dreamed a Dream” was impactful and inspirational.
There are many lessons we can take from Anne Hathaway, both in business and life, in her winning the prestigious role of Fantine in the movie:
- Go after want you want in life. Miss Hathaway was not the first choice for this role. She was not selected initially on her singing ability, she was selected because she showed a commitment to the role and was prepared to do whatever it took to get it. She lost 25 lbs. to look thin and believable in the part. She had her precious long hair cut off very short on camera and so savagely, so the scene would look credible. Whatever it took, she did. And anecdotally, somehow she found her singing voice!
- Make a connection to the role you are playing. Anne made a connection to the character. immediately, built a strong relationship with the role she was playing. She did her homework so she could relate in the audition.
- Let your passion show. Anne was passionate in the role. She moved the director Tom Hopper to tears twice during her audition. Her passion made a great first impression with the ultimate decision maker.
- Practice, practice, practice. Anne wanted the role so much that this tenured and respected actress was prepared to practice, practice, practice to get better. She sought and took constructive feedback.
In conclusion, what can we learn from Anne Hathaway? Don’t let people pigeon hole you, and tell you that you will not get the part or job; believe in yourself and your own ability. Work hard to build your skills if you really want it. Be prepared to sacrifice, lose your ego, practice, show passion and emotion, and do whatever it takes! This is showtime…..
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Monthly Inspirational Quote
“There is no passion to be found by playing small, in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
Nelson Mandela
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Recommended Reading
A Practical Guide to Entrepreneurshp By Michael Morris
Starting a business today can be tough and challenging at the best of times. Let the author teach you how to turn an idea into a profitable business for you. The rewards for working for yourself can very be high, but they also come with risk. This book will show you how to avoid and minimize a lot of those risks.