What can we learn from Matthew McConaughey's book Greenlights?
Matthew McConaughey's book Greenlights is a memoir filled with insights, reflections, and lessons learned from his life and career. Here are a few key takeaways we got from the book, don't worry we won't ruin any of the good stories for you.
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Embrace change.
- One of the key themes of Greenlights is the importance of embracing change and seeing it as an opportunity for growth and learning. As McConaughey writes, "Change is gonna come, whether we like it or not. The only choice we get is how we're gonna deal with it." How quickly we can accept this and return to our baseline of emotions shows a lot about a person.
Follow your own path
- McConaughey highlights the importance of following your own path and pursuing your own goals, rather than trying to fit into someone else's expectations. Writing "I'm not trying to be anyone but myself. I'm not trying to be anyone's hero. I'm just trying to be me." Striving to be the best version of yourself is a process and a very rewarding one at that.
Practice gratitude
- Throughout the book, McConaughey emphasizes the importance of gratitude and the role it has played in his own life. He writes, "Gratitude is the most important thing I have. It's the most important thing I've ever had. It's the most important thing I'll ever have." We couldn't agree more.
Take risks
- Greenlights also highlights the importance of taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. As McConaughey writes, "The only real limitation is the one you set for yourself. You are capable of anything." You have to be able to recognise those 'Greenlights' if you want to cruise on through in life.
Matthew McConaughey's journal
In many interviews, McConaughey has mentioned that he has kept a journal since he was a teenager. And that it helps him process his thoughts and emotions. He also noted that he writes in his journal every day, often starting with the phrase "Today I'm grateful for..." as a way to focus on gratitude. McConaughey has credited journaling as a key part of his self-care routine and has said that it helps him maintain a positive outlook on life.
When writing Greenlights he reflected on 35 years of his journals. Can you imagine! The consistency in his habit no doubt helped him through stardom and his incredible career. Without journaling, it's unlikely this book would exist. So, we are grateful he has consistently put pen to paper allowing us to learn from his experiences and wisdom.