James Corden ON: Work-Life Balance, Family Struggles, & The REAL Reason He Left Late-Night
Added: Feb 6, 2024
In this podcast episode, Jay Shetty interviews James Corden, a well-known actor, comedian, and host of "The Late Late Show." Corden reflects on his career and the decisions he has made, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing personal fulfillment over external success. He shares insights into his journey, including his early love for performing and his transition from acting to hosting a late-night show.Key takeaways
James Corden's love for performing began at a young age, shaping his career trajectory.
Corden emphasizes the importance of personal fulfillment over external success.
Despite career misses, Corden maintains a positive outlook and focuses on learning from experiences.
Corden reflects on his identity and purpose beyond the spotlight, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection.
Corden embraces the unpredictability of life and emphasizes the need to appreciate the present moment.
Early Passion for Performing
Corden recalls his early passion for performing, starting from a young age. He shares a memorable experience from his sister's christening where he stood on a chair and entertained the congregation, sparking his love for being on stage. This passion for performing has been a driving force throughout his life.
Defining Success
Corden discusses how his definition of success has evolved over the years. While he initially aimed for success in the form of acting in a West End musical, he now values personal fulfillment and the impact of his work on his family and overall well-being. He emphasizes the importance of separating work from life and ensuring that his career choices align with his values.
Navigating Misses and Setbacks
Corden acknowledges that not every project or decision in his career has been successful. He shares examples of misses, such as a TV show that didn't receive the expected recognition. Despite these setbacks, he maintains a positive outlook and focuses on the experiences and lessons learned from each endeavor.
Reflection and Self-Discovery
As Corden transitions from hosting "The Late Late Show" to exploring new opportunities, he reflects on his identity and purpose beyond performing. He grapples with the idea of ego and the shift in perspective that comes with stepping away from the spotlight. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and taking time to consider what truly matters in life.
Prioritizing Personal Fulfillment
Corden emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal fulfillment and well-being in decision-making. He shares his process of reflection, which involves considering what truly brings him joy and fulfillment, beyond external success or recognition. Corden values time with his family and focuses on activities that align with his values and passions.
Embracing Uncertainty
As Corden navigates new opportunities and challenges, he embraces uncertainty and the unknown. He acknowledges the unpredictability of life and the importance of staying open to new experiences and possibilities. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the present moment and not holding on to things too tightly. He talks about the temporary nature of success and fame, highlighting the need to appreciate the present and not get caught up in expectations.
Healthier Habits
The conversation shifts to the topic of sleep, with Corden acknowledging the value of good sleep for overall well-being. He discusses the impact of a supplement on his sleep patterns and the importance of prioritizing rest. Corden also shares his decision to cut back on drinking and focus on healthier habits, emphasizing the need to make sustainable lifestyle changes rather than short-term fixes.
Fatherhood
Corden reflects on the changing dynamics between fathers and sons as children seek guidance from other role models. He acknowledges the impact of external influences on children and the need for parents to provide a strong foundation of values and support. He emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for children to navigate life's challenges.
Family and Relationships
Corden emphasizes the importance of family in his life and how his wife played a significant role in their decision to move back to the UK. He talks about the sacrifices his family made while he pursued his career and how he now values spending time with them. He shares touching moments of calling his kids before the show and attending his mother's choir performance, highlighting the joy and fulfillment he finds in simple moments with his loved ones.
Creativity and Purpose
Corden discusses his creative process and the importance of taking time to reflect and wait for inspiration. He talks about his podcast, "This Life of Mine," where people share significant moments in their lives, and his desire to write something new with his longtime collaborator, Ruth Jones. Corden expresses a desire to fully commit himself to a project, similar to Bradley Cooper's dedication to "A Star is Born," and explore acting classes to further develop his craft.
Lessons and Insights
Corden shares valuable advice he has received, such as asking oneself if something is of concern before engaging with it. He also reflects on the negative impact of the "just do it" mentality, suggesting that one should consider if they truly want to pursue something before taking action.
Regulation and Social Media
When asked about a law he would like to introduce, Corden proposes a unique law where individuals are locked out of social media for the same amount of time they spent on the platform. He believes this regulation would encourage people to be more mindful of their screen time and prioritize real-life experiences over virtual interactions. Corden acknowledges the dual nature of technology, recognizing its potential for both harm and benefit, and suggests a balanced approach to its usage.
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