Master your anxiety. Unleash your genius | Jesse Eisenberg

Big Think

Big Think

9 min, 15 sec

Jesse Eisenberg, an actor, writer, and director, discusses his experiences with anxiety, his approach to leadership, and his insights on collaboration.

Summary

  • Eisenberg shares that he is often motivated by anxiety, fear, and self-doubt, which are common among individuals in various fields.
  • He emphasizes the importance of reframing anxiety as a source of fuel and motivation.
  • Eisenberg reveals his strategies for coping with being a public figure and the criticism that comes with it, such as avoiding watching his own films and not reading reviews.
  • As a director, he values humility, deferring to the expertise of others, and fostering a collaborative environment.
  • He shares experiences from directing films, working with accomplished actors, and the significance of adapting to their unique styles.

Chapter 1

The Role of Anxiety and Fear in Motivation

0:00 - 41 sec

Jesse Eisenberg discusses how anxiety and fear are significant motivators in his career.

  • Eisenberg identifies effort, talent, and creativity as driving forces, but highlights anxiety and fear as frequent motivators.
  • Negative motivators such as misery, self-consciousness, and self-hatred also play a role in his drive.
  • He acknowledges the fear that each job may be his last, which is a sentiment shared by others who have forged their own paths.

Chapter 2

Greatness Motivated by Fear

0:43 - 23 sec

Eisenberg observes that the fear of failure is a common trait among great individuals in various fields.

  • The fear of not succeeding in the next endeavor is a concern shared by highly creative and successful people.
  • Reframing anxiety as motivation and care can lead to being less worried and more driven.

Chapter 3

Introduction to Jesse Eisenberg

1:07 - 19 sec

Jesse Eisenberg introduces himself and briefly mentions his recent work.

  • Eisenberg identifies as an actor, a writer, and a director.
  • He mentions his most recent project, a movie called 'A Real Pain'.

Chapter 4

Acting and Public Perception

1:34 - 37 sec

Eisenberg shares his experiences with public perception and criticism as an actor.

  • He addresses the misconception that actors are always full of confidence and self-assured.
  • Eisenberg discusses the challenges of being a public figure and the unexpected criticism that comes with it.

Chapter 5

Creating a Productive Work Environment

2:13 - 50 sec

Eisenberg explains how he created a work environment that allows him to perform at his best.

  • To avoid becoming self-conscious, he does not watch his own movies, read reviews, or expose himself to movie advertisements.
  • Eisenberg believes that focusing on his work and not on things he cannot control is the most effective way to motivate himself.

Chapter 6

Transitioning to Directing

3:07 - 55 sec

Eisenberg discusses his transition to directing and his approach to leadership.

  • Directing two movies has been a challenging transition for him, especially in becoming a leader.
  • Eisenberg discovered that his strength lies in understanding people's roles and helping them excel, rather than traditional leadership.

Chapter 7

Leadership Styles and Influences

4:06 - 12 sec

Eisenberg reflects on the leadership styles that have influenced him and his own approach to leading.

  • He admires leaders who motivate in subtle and quiet ways, rather than those who are loud and bombastic.
  • Eisenberg suggests that those who are not traditional leaders can find inspiration in leaders who are similar to themselves.

Chapter 8

Deferring to Expertise in Directing

4:24 - 44 sec

Eisenberg talks about deferring to the expertise of others while directing films.

  • He often works with individuals who are vastly more experienced and knowledgeable in their specific fields.
  • Eisenberg values humility, being open to learning, and providing space for others to excel.

Chapter 9

Acting, Directing, and Reacting

5:14 - 1 min, 16 sec

Eisenberg shares insights from acting and directing on how to respond to and work with others.

  • Acting requires reacting to collaborators, which also applies to directing and managing actors.
  • By allowing actors to have freedom and improvise, directors can enhance their performances.

Chapter 10

Collaborating with Experienced Actors

7:14 - 1 min, 42 sec

Eisenberg discusses the challenges of directing highly experienced actors.

  • He talks about working with Julianne Moore and learning to give her feedback and direction despite his initial intimidation.
  • Eisenberg emphasizes the importance of collaboration and not being intimidated by a colleague's talent.

More Big Think summaries

How to enter ‘flow state’ on command | Steven Kotler for Big Think

How to enter ‘flow state’ on command | Steven Kotler for Big Think

Big Think

Big Think

The video explains the concept of flow, its characteristics, and its significance in achieving peak performance.

Harvard negotiator explains how to argue | Dan Shapiro

Harvard negotiator explains how to argue | Dan Shapiro

Big Think

Big Think

An in-depth exploration of how to effectively manage and resolve emotionally-charged conflicts.

12 traits emotionally intelligent people share (You can learn them) | Daniel Goleman for Big Think+

12 traits emotionally intelligent people share (You can learn them) | Daniel Goleman for Big Think+

Big Think

Big Think

Daniel Goleman discusses the significance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in personal and professional life, its components, and how it can be developed at any age.

Berkeley professor explains gender theory | Judith Butler

Berkeley professor explains gender theory | Judith Butler

Big Think

Big Think

Judith Butler, a distinguished professor, delves into gender theory, its historical development, and the significance of performance in gender identity.

The lost art of accomplishment without burnout | Cal Newport for Big Think +

The lost art of accomplishment without burnout | Cal Newport for Big Think +

Big Think

Big Think

Cal Newport explains how to combat burnout and increase productivity by focusing on outcomes rather than busyness, advocating for 'Slow Productivity'.