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A friend of mine recently sent me a video compilation of words of wisdom spoken by Will Smith. You might not initially think that a guy like Will Smith–an actor who’s made his name starring in big-budget action blockbuster films such as Independence Day and Men In Black–has a lot of philosophical things to say. And you would be forgiven for assuming any advice he might have to offer would apply to actors much more than musicians (although Mr. Smith is no stranger to the Billboard charts himself, with hits like “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” under his belt).

But this video proves that Will has quite a bit of interesting, practical and inspirational advice.

He says that work ethic goes much further than talent when it comes to making it in the entertainment business. He also believes there is greatness in all of us, and we need to focus on small tasks one at a time in order to complete a seemingly impossible goal–much like laying individual bricks to build a large wall. Smith believes we need to work hard every day toward our dreams in order to get ahead, and that we should all strive to be a positive influence in the world.

But my favorite bit of advice has to do with Smith’s take on the so-called “real world…”

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It’s too late.

It’s too much work.

I’m too far behind.

I’ll never accomplish what I want.

Do any of these excuses sound familiar to you? All too often, people give up on their musical dreams because they think they’re too old, or it’s too late for them to learn the skills they need, or it’s too hard. Life is short, right? That boat has sailed.

But thinking like that is self-defeating. There is an ancient Chinese proverb that states, “He who says he can and he who says he can’t are usually both right.” If you think you can’t do it, you’re probably right. But it’s not because you don’t have the ability or the time… It’s only because you’ve already decided you can’t.

The fact is, life is long and there are plenty of opportunities to do what you love to do. There’s no deadline for your dreams. It’s never too late as long as you’re still alive.

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