Full of Leaps and Dives: How to Survive the Fall in Three Easy Steps
Wow！What an Introduction That Was
Good afternoon. Thank you, Dean Manning, Dean Ball, and Dean Bork, for this rare and distinguished honor. Congratulations to the class of 2023. What an incredible day! Ladunamo of an impressive academic journey. Congratulations as well to the parents, partners, and family members of all the students here today.
I can only imagine the pride you must have to see your loved ones graduate from what I understand is the best law school in the country.
To the graduating cohort, I consider it a privilege to have been asked to speak to you as you are about to unleash yourself on the world. This moment conjures up the exciting image of a high diver poised to leap into the void. As you know, I am not a lawyer. I can't even say that I have played one on the screen.
Why am I here? Why have I been asked to deliver the keynote speech to you on this pivotal day of your life as you dive headfirst into a presumably bright but unpredictable future? Well, maybe the reason I'm here is because I happen to have some experience leaping off high platforms into scary voids. So, do allow me to offer some simple pointers that I've picked up along the way in my career.
Full of Leaps and Dives: How to Survive the Fall in Three Easy Steps by Michelle Yo
The first one is pretty obvious, but not always easy. Stay loose.
My journey from Malaysia to the Academy Awards stage began with my first love, which was not acting but dance. I knew at a very young age that my gift was to communicate through movement. In my studies, I found freedom in discipline and focus. I trained tirelessly day and night, drilling my body in every aspect of the craft. More importantly, I trained my mind to be still, to silence the whispers of self-doubt. France was my safe place, my inevitable future, and my undeniable path. So, I enrolled in a ballet school in England and began living my dream.
Unfortunately, life had other plans. I suffered a spinal injury, and just like that, I watched everything vanish into thin air. Life as I knew it was over. With my dreams of dance crushed, I credit the principal of my school for giving me the encouragement that ultimately led me to a career beyond my imagination. It was she who encouraged me to stay loose about my future when falling. The tendency is to tighten up to brace for impact, but in truth, the safest thing one can do is remain calm, even curious about the shifting world around you.
After graduating with a degree in creative arts, I returned home, more open to other possibilities outside the box. With this awareness came the freedom to make choices I might not have otherwise been able to. This opened the door to doing a commercial in Hong Kong, then to acting roles and the start of my life in film, which leads me to my second piece of advice, know your limits.
Although understanding what you can do is essential, understanding what you can't do is pretty important, too. This works on two levels, both internally and externally. Internally, knowing your limits keeps you humble, motivated, and focused on a goal to point your finger toward. Externally, knowing the limits that are set for you by others gives you a place to point a different finger. I am talking about the middle one. In other words, limitations set by yourself give you boundaries to respect, but limitations set by others give you boundaries to bust through.
As a young woman trying to break into the film industry in Hong Kong, I was confronted with limitations at every turn. Initially cast in stereotypical roles, the demure, docile damsel in distress, I soon realized that what I wanted to play were the action roles, the heroes. Of course, these were then reserved exclusively for men, but I could see that the fight sequences were highly choreographed, and I knew in my bones that my dance training would allow me to excel at them if only I were given the chance. So, I went to my producer and said, "I did say please. I want an action role." I was prepared to do everything the men were doing, the choreography, the stunts, taking the blows, the wirework, all of it. What? Like it's hard! But when the chance finally came, I knew it was make or break. I had that one shot to prove my ability as an action star, and if I failed, I would not get that opportunity again. So, I seized the moment with everything I had, and as it turned out, thankfully, audiences were more than ready for a female star in action comedies. The film Yes, Madam was well received and launched my career.
I knew I had it made then when soon after, I joined Jet Li and Jackie Chan as the three people who Hong Kong insurers refused to cover. They took one look at the scenes we were shooting and ran for the hills. I wore that as a badge of honor. Eventually, things progressed, and before I knew it, I was regularly running on rooftops, riding motorcycles onto moving trains, and rolling off vans onto oncoming traffic. Don't try that at home, okay? There were injuries, as you can imagine, but with every nick, scratch, bruise, and fractured vertebra, I came back better and braver. Learning how to fall teaches you how to land, and learning to land gives you the courage to jump higher.
So, when the James Bond producers knocked on my door about a film called Tomorrow Never Dies, I thought, "Yes, they want me to play James Bond!" Oh, oh, oh! I was fortunate that the producers, Bob Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, had a substantial role in mind in the character of Wai Lin, a formidable agent who was always one step ahead of her adversaries, an equal to Bond. Many regard that character as instrumental in modernizing the franchise and its retrograde portrayals of women. So, thank you, Barbara and Michael.
Although offers came in after the Bond movie, I waited two years for the proper role, rejecting scripts that lacked nuance or depth in their characters. Honestly, there were times I had doubts as to whether I was doing the right thing in waiting. After all, actors want to act. However, I knew I would not be happy unless I continued to seek out roles that allowed me and like-minded creatives to dig deeper and reflect three-dimensional humanity on stage, and that was Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
So, I must have done something right because I am busier than ever. These examples illustrate the importance of limitations because our limitations become our challenges, and there is nothing like a challenge to keep you working, striving, and pushing for more. Every demeaning role I was offered, every rejection I was handed, and every time someone underestimated me, I found energy and renewed motivation.
This brings me to the third and final, find your people. Life is not always a zero-sum game. For every winner, that doesn't have to be a loser. In fact, most success stories are less about competition and more about collaboration. The truth is, I could not have done any of this alone. My achievements are the results of those around me who offered and continue to offer support and believe. There are times when, as much as I don't want to let myself down, I don't want to let them down even more. My definition of community is vast, including my family, loved ones, and friends, but it also includes the other actors, directors, producers, crew members, film critics, dancers, musicians, and artists with whom I've crossed paths. My community transcends time in the sense that I stand on the shoulders of those who have come before me, and I am energized and inspired by those who come after me. My community extends beyond people I know personally, which is why representation matters and why diversity on and off the screen have been a major priority for me, particularly for women and particularly in lead roles. When we shine a light on the rich and varied world around us, we empower the whole of our humanity. I can see no better reason to wake up in the morning and get to work.
Lastly, my community is not limited to the film industry. In my work as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, I have witnessed the deep inequalities that continue to plague societies around the world, and I have seen up close how women and girls are often the last to get essential services like clean water and vaccines, especially in crisis. For this reason, I have committed myself to walking in lockstep with their struggle.
The prerequisite to change is empathy. Seeing through other people's perspectives activates our compassion, which becomes the driving force for real-world, demonstrable action. Compassion is the ultimate superpower within us. When you are leaping without a safety net, people become your safety net, and you become theirs.
So, those are my tips: stay loose, know your limits, and find your people.
But I want to conclude by speaking briefly about that little movie that could, Everything Everywhere All at Once.
This was a film that in many ways brings together all the insights I have shared with you today. It defies genre, getting loose with free expectations and defying categorization. It flouted limitations by taking a smaller budget and turning it into an international phenomenon. And it brought together a community of creative and talented individuals working with a common passion to tell a universal human story. This was some wow! I'm creating waves as I can see.
This was a movie made entirely with love that was in many ways the culmination of my life's work, and the reverberations of that love continue to be felt as Everything Everywhere All at Once has caused a tectonic shift in the industry, opening the door to more independent efforts and greater Asian representation.
When I think of a glorious leap into an unknown void, I think of that movie. So, class of 2023, this is my offering to you today. You graduate, and today you leap. Stay loose, be smart, and go with love, and then leap, and then leap again, and leap again. I look forward to living in the world you all help build, and I am honored to have been one small voice at the beginning of your journey. Thank you all, and I wish you every success. Happy graduation.
### Navigating Life's Leaps: A Guide for Graduates
Graduation is a thrilling milestone, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities and uncertainties. As you step into the world, armed with your hard-earned degrees, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. How do you navigate this new terrain? How do you ensure you make the most of your potential? Here are some invaluable tips to help you thrive in the post-graduation journey.
**Stay Loose: Embrace Flexibility and Resilience**
Life rarely goes according to plan, and unexpected challenges are bound to arise. Instead of rigidly adhering to a preconceived path, stay loose and open to new possibilities. Just like a dancer adapting to different choreographies, be ready to pivot and adjust your course as needed. This flexibility will not only help you weather the storms but also allow you to discover hidden opportunities that you might have otherwise missed.
For example, if you had your heart set on a particular job or career path but encounter roadblocks, don't be afraid to explore alternative routes. Maybe there's a related field or a different role that aligns better with your skills and interests. By staying loose, you can turn setbacks into stepping stones towards a more fulfilling journey.
**Know Your Limits: Set Realistic Goals and Boundaries**
Understanding your strengths and weaknesses is crucial for success. Take the time to assess your skills, passions, and limitations. This self-awareness will help you set realistic goals that are achievable and meaningful to you.
Internally, knowing your limits keeps you humble and motivated. It allows you to focus your energy and efforts on areas where you can excel, rather than spreading yourself too thin. Externally, being aware of the boundaries set by others, such as industry norms or societal expectations, gives you a clear direction on where to push and where to adapt.
For instance, if you're interested in a competitive field, recognize the skills and experiences you need to stand out. Set goals to acquire those skills, whether through further education, internships, or on-the-job training. At the same time, be realistic about the time and resources required, and don't be afraid to say no to opportunities that don't align with your long-term goals.
**Find Your People: Build a Supportive Community**
No one achieves success alone. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passions, values, and goals. Your community can include friends, family, mentors, colleagues, and fellow professionals.
These people will not only provide support and encouragement but also offer different perspectives and insights. They can help you navigate challenges, celebrate your successes, and hold you accountable. Whether it's a study group, a professional network, or a community of artists, find your tribe and nurture those relationships.
For example, joining a professional organization related to your field can connect you with industry experts and peers. Attending networking events or conferences allows you to expand your circle and learn from others. By building a strong support system, you'll have the strength and motivation to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams.
In conclusion, as you embark on this new journey, remember to stay loose, know your limits, and find your people. Embrace the unknown with flexibility, set realistic goals based on your strengths, and surround yourself with a supportive community. With these principles in mind, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and create a fulfilling and successful life.
graduation, career advice, stay loose, know limits, find people
Good afternoon. Thank you, Dean Manning, Dean Ball, and Dean Bork, for this rare and distinguished honor. Congratulations to the class of 2023. What an incredible day! Ladunamo of an impressive academic journey. Congratulations as well to the parents, partners, and family members of all the students here today.
I can only imagine the pride you must have to see your loved ones graduate from what I understand is the best law school in the country.
To the graduating cohort, I consider it a privilege to have been asked to speak to you as you are about to unleash yourself on the world. This moment conjures up the exciting image of a high diver poised to leap into the void. As you know, I am not a lawyer. I can't even say that I have played one on the screen.
Why am I here? Why have I been asked to deliver the keynote speech to you on this pivotal day of your life as you dive headfirst into a presumably bright but unpredictable future? Well, maybe the reason I'm here is because I happen to have some experience leaping off high platforms into scary voids. So, do allow me to offer some simple pointers that I've picked up along the way in my career.
Full of Leaps and Dives: How to Survive the Fall in Three Easy Steps by Michelle Yo
The first one is pretty obvious, but not always easy. Stay loose.
My journey from Malaysia to the Academy Awards stage began with my first love, which was not acting but dance. I knew at a very young age that my gift was to communicate through movement. In my studies, I found freedom in discipline and focus. I trained tirelessly day and night, drilling my body in every aspect of the craft. More importantly, I trained my mind to be still, to silence the whispers of self-doubt. France was my safe place, my inevitable future, and my undeniable path. So, I enrolled in a ballet school in England and began living my dream.
Unfortunately, life had other plans. I suffered a spinal injury, and just like that, I watched everything vanish into thin air. Life as I knew it was over. With my dreams of dance crushed, I credit the principal of my school for giving me the encouragement that ultimately led me to a career beyond my imagination. It was she who encouraged me to stay loose about my future when falling. The tendency is to tighten up to brace for impact, but in truth, the safest thing one can do is remain calm, even curious about the shifting world around you.
After graduating with a degree in creative arts, I returned home, more open to other possibilities outside the box. With this awareness came the freedom to make choices I might not have otherwise been able to. This opened the door to doing a commercial in Hong Kong, then to acting roles and the start of my life in film, which leads me to my second piece of advice, know your limits.
Although understanding what you can do is essential, understanding what you can't do is pretty important, too. This works on two levels, both internally and externally. Internally, knowing your limits keeps you humble, motivated, and focused on a goal to point your finger toward. Externally, knowing the limits that are set for you by others gives you a place to point a different finger. I am talking about the middle one. In other words, limitations set by yourself give you boundaries to respect, but limitations set by others give you boundaries to bust through.
As a young woman trying to break into the film industry in Hong Kong, I was confronted with limitations at every turn. Initially cast in stereotypical roles, the demure, docile damsel in distress, I soon realized that what I wanted to play were the action roles, the heroes. Of course, these were then reserved exclusively for men, but I could see that the fight sequences were highly choreographed, and I knew in my bones that my dance training would allow me to excel at them if only I were given the chance. So, I went to my producer and said, "I did say please. I want an action role." I was prepared to do everything the men were doing, the choreography, the stunts, taking the blows, the wirework, all of it. What? Like it's hard! But when the chance finally came, I knew it was make or break. I had that one shot to prove my ability as an action star, and if I failed, I would not get that opportunity again. So, I seized the moment with everything I had, and as it turned out, thankfully, audiences were more than ready for a female star in action comedies. The film Yes, Madam was well received and launched my career.
I knew I had it made then when soon after, I joined Jet Li and Jackie Chan as the three people who Hong Kong insurers refused to cover. They took one look at the scenes we were shooting and ran for the hills. I wore that as a badge of honor. Eventually, things progressed, and before I knew it, I was regularly running on rooftops, riding motorcycles onto moving trains, and rolling off vans onto oncoming traffic. Don't try that at home, okay? There were injuries, as you can imagine, but with every nick, scratch, bruise, and fractured vertebra, I came back better and braver. Learning how to fall teaches you how to land, and learning to land gives you the courage to jump higher.
So, when the James Bond producers knocked on my door about a film called Tomorrow Never Dies, I thought, "Yes, they want me to play James Bond!" Oh, oh, oh! I was fortunate that the producers, Bob Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, had a substantial role in mind in the character of Wai Lin, a formidable agent who was always one step ahead of her adversaries, an equal to Bond. Many regard that character as instrumental in modernizing the franchise and its retrograde portrayals of women. So, thank you, Barbara and Michael.
Although offers came in after the Bond movie, I waited two years for the proper role, rejecting scripts that lacked nuance or depth in their characters. Honestly, there were times I had doubts as to whether I was doing the right thing in waiting. After all, actors want to act. However, I knew I would not be happy unless I continued to seek out roles that allowed me and like-minded creatives to dig deeper and reflect three-dimensional humanity on stage, and that was Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
So, I must have done something right because I am busier than ever. These examples illustrate the importance of limitations because our limitations become our challenges, and there is nothing like a challenge to keep you working, striving, and pushing for more. Every demeaning role I was offered, every rejection I was handed, and every time someone underestimated me, I found energy and renewed motivation.
This brings me to the third and final, find your people. Life is not always a zero-sum game. For every winner, that doesn't have to be a loser. In fact, most success stories are less about competition and more about collaboration. The truth is, I could not have done any of this alone. My achievements are the results of those around me who offered and continue to offer support and believe. There are times when, as much as I don't want to let myself down, I don't want to let them down even more. My definition of community is vast, including my family, loved ones, and friends, but it also includes the other actors, directors, producers, crew members, film critics, dancers, musicians, and artists with whom I've crossed paths. My community transcends time in the sense that I stand on the shoulders of those who have come before me, and I am energized and inspired by those who come after me. My community extends beyond people I know personally, which is why representation matters and why diversity on and off the screen have been a major priority for me, particularly for women and particularly in lead roles. When we shine a light on the rich and varied world around us, we empower the whole of our humanity. I can see no better reason to wake up in the morning and get to work.
Lastly, my community is not limited to the film industry. In my work as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, I have witnessed the deep inequalities that continue to plague societies around the world, and I have seen up close how women and girls are often the last to get essential services like clean water and vaccines, especially in crisis. For this reason, I have committed myself to walking in lockstep with their struggle.
The prerequisite to change is empathy. Seeing through other people's perspectives activates our compassion, which becomes the driving force for real-world, demonstrable action. Compassion is the ultimate superpower within us. When you are leaping without a safety net, people become your safety net, and you become theirs.
So, those are my tips: stay loose, know your limits, and find your people.
But I want to conclude by speaking briefly about that little movie that could, Everything Everywhere All at Once.
This was a film that in many ways brings together all the insights I have shared with you today. It defies genre, getting loose with free expectations and defying categorization. It flouted limitations by taking a smaller budget and turning it into an international phenomenon. And it brought together a community of creative and talented individuals working with a common passion to tell a universal human story. This was some wow! I'm creating waves as I can see.
This was a movie made entirely with love that was in many ways the culmination of my life's work, and the reverberations of that love continue to be felt as Everything Everywhere All at Once has caused a tectonic shift in the industry, opening the door to more independent efforts and greater Asian representation.
When I think of a glorious leap into an unknown void, I think of that movie. So, class of 2023, this is my offering to you today. You graduate, and today you leap. Stay loose, be smart, and go with love, and then leap, and then leap again, and leap again. I look forward to living in the world you all help build, and I am honored to have been one small voice at the beginning of your journey. Thank you all, and I wish you every success. Happy graduation.
### Navigating Life's Leaps: A Guide for Graduates
Graduation is a thrilling milestone, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities and uncertainties. As you step into the world, armed with your hard-earned degrees, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. How do you navigate this new terrain? How do you ensure you make the most of your potential? Here are some invaluable tips to help you thrive in the post-graduation journey.
**Stay Loose: Embrace Flexibility and Resilience**
Life rarely goes according to plan, and unexpected challenges are bound to arise. Instead of rigidly adhering to a preconceived path, stay loose and open to new possibilities. Just like a dancer adapting to different choreographies, be ready to pivot and adjust your course as needed. This flexibility will not only help you weather the storms but also allow you to discover hidden opportunities that you might have otherwise missed.
For example, if you had your heart set on a particular job or career path but encounter roadblocks, don't be afraid to explore alternative routes. Maybe there's a related field or a different role that aligns better with your skills and interests. By staying loose, you can turn setbacks into stepping stones towards a more fulfilling journey.
**Know Your Limits: Set Realistic Goals and Boundaries**
Understanding your strengths and weaknesses is crucial for success. Take the time to assess your skills, passions, and limitations. This self-awareness will help you set realistic goals that are achievable and meaningful to you.
Internally, knowing your limits keeps you humble and motivated. It allows you to focus your energy and efforts on areas where you can excel, rather than spreading yourself too thin. Externally, being aware of the boundaries set by others, such as industry norms or societal expectations, gives you a clear direction on where to push and where to adapt.
For instance, if you're interested in a competitive field, recognize the skills and experiences you need to stand out. Set goals to acquire those skills, whether through further education, internships, or on-the-job training. At the same time, be realistic about the time and resources required, and don't be afraid to say no to opportunities that don't align with your long-term goals.
**Find Your People: Build a Supportive Community**
No one achieves success alone. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passions, values, and goals. Your community can include friends, family, mentors, colleagues, and fellow professionals.
These people will not only provide support and encouragement but also offer different perspectives and insights. They can help you navigate challenges, celebrate your successes, and hold you accountable. Whether it's a study group, a professional network, or a community of artists, find your tribe and nurture those relationships.
For example, joining a professional organization related to your field can connect you with industry experts and peers. Attending networking events or conferences allows you to expand your circle and learn from others. By building a strong support system, you'll have the strength and motivation to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams.
In conclusion, as you embark on this new journey, remember to stay loose, know your limits, and find your people. Embrace the unknown with flexibility, set realistic goals based on your strengths, and surround yourself with a supportive community. With these principles in mind, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and create a fulfilling and successful life.
graduation, career advice, stay loose, know limits, find people
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