Jim Carrey on Doing, Having, and Being Enough
Jim Carrey made his name as a comic actor. His antics and exaggerated expressions earned him loads of fans, movies, and money.
But now, he’s stepped away from his Hollywood life.
No more glitzy balls or awards ceremonies. No more glamour. No more living in the public eye.
In an interview, he shared how he came to realize some personal truths. He said,
“I’ve done enough.
I have enough.
I am enough.
Now, I just like putting paint onto canvas.”
Given the option of how to spend his time, he’s choosing a personal pursuit.
He could easily keep acting. He could do commercials and ads around the globe for obscene money. He could sip champagne on a private yacht.
But at the end of the day, what is most satisfying and rewarding? What leaves us feeling more fulfilled?
Meaningful Work Can Be the Best Part of the Day
A personal pursuit (be it art, music, woodworking, or any other) feeds us on a deeper level. It lets us grow and evolve.
A personal pursuit allows us to improve over time. We get to feel our progress and explore new angles.
And it doesn’t have to consume every minute.
We can step away for months or years, and come back whenever we like, like a family home that always has a light on.
Priorities Change Over Time
As we move through life, the veils of the material world will fall away.
Our bodies change. Our motivations change. What used to matter more will come to matter less.
At one time, fame and fortune were the holy grail to Jim Carrey. He worked hard for them.
Eventually, he had enough.
And what felt more right was time spent alone, working on something that mattered to him.
Not to bring more glory, but just to enjoy spending the time.
Hi, I’m Allen Mathews.
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