Welcome to another edition of leadersayswhat’s the Weekender, an ant-size piece of information to start your weekend on the right track. Why an ant, man? Because it’s the weekend!
One of the ways Marvel Studios has dominated the box office is by hiring the best actors to star in their superhero movies. Such legendary names as Robert Redford (Captain America), Jeff Bridges (Iron Man), and Anthony Hopkins (Thor) have devoted their talent and a sense of credibility to what used to be considered a silly concept. With the release of Ant-Man we can add another name to this illustrious list, Michael Douglas.
If you are wondering why Michael Douglas’s career has endured for as long as it has, look no farther than his work ethic. In a recent interview, co-star Evangeline Lilly discussed her experience with Michael.
From the minute he steps on set, he brings an energy into the world that puts you in your place. I don’t mean that in a negative way; I mean that in the most incredible way… [H]e goes there, and he goes there 100%. I think at this point in his career it would be very easy for a man like Michael Douglas to dial it in on a film like this and just go, ‘Eh, it’s a paycheck. Just come get my job over and done with and get out.’ But when they roll those cameras — even when they’re not rolling, and they just call for us to rehearse — he really brings it. He opens his mouth and you go, ‘Oh that’s how it’s done. That’s what we’re supposed to be doing.’
If someone with Michael Douglas’ stature puts all his effort into a mere rehearsal, what’s our excuse? It’s easy to hold back, to “save it” for the real deal, but that’s not how the greats became great. They try every time with every opportunity to make every effort a valuable experience.
Want an impressive career that spans five decades? Start emulating Michael Douglas. Give 100% with every attempt. Be the person who’s professionalism makes everyone raise their standards. This is as true in the boardroom as it is in the comic book world.
