The best advice Tom Hanks got came from an angry director and why everyone should listen

Offering life-changing career advice, Tom Hanks, now 68, recalls a defining moment at 21 that set him on the path to Hollywood success.

With over four decades in the industry, he has starred in classics like “Forrest Gump,” “Philadelphia,” and “Saving Private Ryan.”

Hanks credits part of his enduring career to a challenging but valuable lesson from a frustrated director early on—guidance that shaped his approach to acting.

During An Evening with Tom Hanks in London on June 15, 2023, Hanks reflected on his early career while speaking with actor Richard E. Grant.

He recalled working at a repertory theater, where he took on minor roles and served as an understudy in “The Taming of the Shrew.”

Rehearsals were often chaotic, as lead actors showed up hungover and unprepared.

Frustrated, the director demanded professionalism, a lesson that stuck with Hanks throughout his career.

“This is my job, and it’s your job here. And I can’t tell you guys what to do every time. Stop asking me where you should be. Stop asking what the motivation is. That’s your job,” Hanks recalled the director saying before delivering the life-changing career advice that would change his life: “You gotta show up on time. You have to know the text, and you have to have an idea.”

Hanks credits that career advice with shaping his strong work ethic, emphasizing that professionalism and discipline are essential for success. However, he remains surprised by how many actors ignore these basics.

Speaking with Grant, he expressed his frustration, questioning how some still get paid despite lacking dedication to their craft.

Hanks shared three key lessons that shaped his career: arriving early, understanding the material beyond memorizing lines, and contributing ideas that enhance performance.

He stressed that preparation and professionalism are essential to success in the industry.

Hanks’ life-changing career advice centers on taking the initiative. He emphasizes that arriving early, being prepared, and contributing ideas can make a real difference on set.

Working with proactive actors helps directors focus on the bigger picture instead of handling every tiny detail.

People value those who go above and beyond in any environment, whether at work, on set, or at home.

Being reliable and committed shows that a person is more than just fulfilling their basic role—it leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Hanks’ life-changing career advice applies to anyone aiming to stand out and make a difference.

Following the idea that success comes from being “so good that you’re undeniable,” as Steve Martin once said, Hanks built his career on discipline and professionalism.

His commitment to excellence helped him become one of Hollywood’s most respected and admired actors.

Work ethic

Work ethic shapes how people approach their jobs and make decisions, directly impacting productivity, job satisfaction, and a company’s reputation, says Workable.

According to a ZipDo survey, 83% of employees consider work ethic a crucial trait in their colleagues.

This underscores the increasing value of strong work habits in today’s professional world.

A strong work ethic is based on five key principles: integrity, responsibility, quality, discipline, and teamwork.

These values drive personal success and contribute to a positive and effective workplace.

Integrity involves honesty and reliability, while responsibility emphasizes accountability and learning from mistakes.

Striving for quality means setting high standards and taking pride in your work. Discipline is about staying focused and committed to long-term goals. Teamwork highlights the importance of collaboration and support in achieving shared objectives.

These principles are regarded as the foundation for success, valued by industry leaders.

Here’s Tom Hanks sharing the life-changing career advice he received from an angry director: