Walmart Stores, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Why we think Will Smith is a Type 3
Goal-setting and drive for success: In various interviews and speeches, Smith has discussed the importance of writing down goals, visualizing them, and speaking them into existence. For example, he once shared a story about how, at 15 years old, he and DJ Jazzy Jeff set the goal to win the first Grammy in the rap category — and they did. From his early days as a rapper to his transition into acting and then producing, Will Smith has consistently strived for success. He often speaks about working tirelessly to achieve his goals.
Demeanor. Smith often stands tall and carries himself with an air of confidence. In public appearances, he is assertive and not afraid to take center stage, promoting himself and his projects with assured enthusiasm.
A desire to motivate and inspire through his words: Smith has been known for his motivational speeches and statements, emphasizing hard work, determination, and creating one's destiny. He likes to talk about having the right mindset, staying positive, and projecting a certain image, both in his roles and personal life, in order to achieve success
Fear of Failure: In various interviews, Smith has discussed his fear of failure and how it's been a motivating factor in pushing him to achieve more.
Competitiveness: In an interview with Tavis Smiley, Smith said, "The only thing that I see that is distinctively different about me is I'm not afraid to die on a treadmill." He used the metaphor of competing on treadmills, emphasizing that if he and another person got on one, either the other person was getting off first, or he was going to die. He has an intense commitment to outworking others.
Personal narratives about overcoming challenges: Smith often shares stories about the challenges he's faced, both in his career or personal life, and how he's overcome them.
Chasing external validation: In a Red Table Talk episode, Smith and his wife Jada discussed points in their relationship where his desire for a perfect image put strain on their marriage. He admitted to wanting the perfect family image.
Will Smith quotes that show he is a Type 3
"I've always considered myself to be just average talent and what I have is a ridiculous insane obsessiveness for practice and preparation."
"Being realistic is the most commonly traveled road to mediocrity."
"Fail early, fail often, fail forward."
"Dream big, because dreams do happen."
"Self-discipline is the center of all material success."
"Fear is not real. It is a product of thoughts you create. Do not misunderstand me. Danger is very real. But fear is a choice."
"There’s no reason to have a plan B because it distracts from plan A."
"The first step is you have to say that you can."
"The only thing that I see that is distinctly different about me is that I’m not afraid to die on a treadmill."
"I want to be the most valuable player. I want to represent an idea. I want to represent possibilities."