A conversation between Tom Holland and Jay Shetty discusses mental health struggles, family support, and overcoming challenges.
I think a life school…should be creating an environment at school where young people feel more comfortable talking about themselves…you should feel empowered when asking for help. It should be something that you’re proud of, like you’re recognizing that you have an issue…you are seeking help, which I think is very admirable. – Tom Holland
Golf and Emotional Mastery
Holland shares that he is currently taking golf lessons but admits that progress has been slow.
He mentions the importance of finding a coach who focuses on the feel of the swing rather than just technical feedback.
Holland highlights the need for a life school that teaches emotional mastery, empathy, and creating safe spaces for understanding others.
He encourages seeking help as a sign of empowerment and strength.
Handling Criticism
Having witnessed his father’s ability to brush off failures and move forward, Holland has learned to handle criticism and negative reviews in his own career.
Finding Calm and Humility in Nature
Tom Holland discusses his experiences with animals, particularly gorillas and whales, and how being in their presence can evoke a sense of calm and humility.
He believes that being helpless in the face of these creatures helps him make peace with his choices and appreciate the beauty of living beings.
Being a Supportive Friend
Holland enjoys being the designated driver for his friends, ensuring their safety and being there for them even when he is not drinking.
Creating Connection and Safety
Inspired by his parents’ constant presence in his childhood, Holland desires to create a feeling of connection and safety within his own family.
I think a lot of my lessons in life have come from my dad and the ways that he can deal with things, things that he hasn’t done very well in the past that he’s passed on to me. And I sort of live by this really, I don’t actually know if Christian Bale did say this, but I love the quote. If you have a problem with me, text me. And if you don’t have my number, you don’t know me well enough to have a problem with me. – Tom Holland
Challenges and Misconceptions
While shooting ‘The Crowded Room,’ Holland faced mental health challenges.
Taking a break from social media was misunderstood as a mental breakdown by the press.
The Impact of Parents
Holland reflects on the strong foundation of love and support he received from his parents and how it has influenced his work ethic.
Mindset Shift
Holland mentions turning nerves into excitement as the best advice he’s received.
He finds this mindset shift helpful.
He also jokingly mentions the worst advice he received, which involved moving to LA, getting a marijuana license, and buying a hot tub.
Destigmatizing Mental Health
Tom Holland emphasizes the importance of destigmatizing mental health and celebrating those who ask for help.
Admiring Champions
Holland admires athletes, especially tennis players like Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, for their ability to perform under pressure and bounce back from defeats.
He believes that true champions are those who have lost everything and managed to regain their success.
Learning from Mentors
Holland emphasizes the importance of learning from and being mentored by people, even if you haven’t met them personally.
He believes that studying the decisions, beliefs, and values of notable individuals can have a significant impact on one’s mindset and personal growth.
Unexpected Paths to Success
A successful acting career may not always start as a planned or desired path.
Following passions and being open to unexpected opportunities can lead to fulfilling careers.
Resilience and Support
Resilience and support from parents are essential in overcoming challenges like dyslexia.
The value of effort and encouragement cannot be underestimated.
Overcoming Bullying and Adversity
Engaging in activities that may face ridicule due to societal norms can build resilience and shape character.
Staying true to oneself is important.
Asking for help should be something that we celebrate. If you’re struggling, if you need help, if you feel bad, and you wake up and you go to a friend, a therapist, a teacher, an employee, or a colleague, and say ‘I’m really struggling, I need some help,’ that should be something that we give you a pat on the back, like, ‘I would love to help you. I’m delighted that you asked me.’ – Tom Holland
Supporting Harry Kane
When discussing the future of football player Harry Kane, Holland expresses his desire to see Kane succeed and lift trophies, even if it means leaving his current team, Tottenham Hotspur.
He believes that Kane’s talent and skill would shine in any team, and he wishes to see him at the top.
The Positive Impact of Sobriety
Tom Holland gave up drinking and found that it positively impacted his sleep, happiness, and clarity of mind.
I think it’s an age thing. It’s a strength thing. I feel like Haaland’s kind of like…I’ve always compared Haaland to like Ivan Drago…he was made in the lab…this incredible talent. – Tom Holland
Appreciating Musicians and Comedians
The actor expresses admiration for musicians like Ed Sheeran who can captivate large audiences, as well as comedians who have the skill to make people laugh.
He also recognizes the team effort involved in his own profession as an actor, where many people contribute to his performance.
Asking for Help
Asking for help should be celebrated, whether it’s from friends, therapists, or colleagues.
It is a sign of strength and a step towards healing.
Support Systems
Help can come in various forms and doesn’t have to come solely from professionals.
Friends and loved ones can provide valuable support and understanding.
