Bollywood icon Kareena Kapoor Khan, renowned for her formidable talent and unwavering confidence, has shared a profound perspective on navigating the unpredictable tides of the film industry. In a candid conversation, the actor, with a career spanning over two decades, articulated her philosophy that success and failure are inseparable companions on the same path.
Acting as DNA, Not Just a Destination
For Kareena Kapoor Khan, the craft of acting transcends professional boundaries; it is a lifelong passion ingrained in her very being. In her recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she emphasized that her drive comes from love for the art, not from chasing a finite goal. "There’s so much yet to achieve because it’s something that I love and enjoy doing—acting," she revealed. The star views her career as a continuous process, stating that there is no definitive end point when you are committed to doing what you love.
She elaborated that acting is part of her DNA, dismissing the notion of it being a mere target to be achieved. This mindset allows her to pursue her work with enduring enthusiasm, free from the pressure of a final destination.
Wearing Success Lightly, Embracing Failure
Kareena Kapoor Khan's key advice to her peers and aspirants is to avoid taking success too seriously. She believes this balanced outlook is crucial for longevity in a field as fickle as entertainment. "Success, I think, should never be taken too seriously, and I feel most actors shouldn’t either," she advised.
"Because if there’s success, there’s failure, and without failure, there’s no success. It’s just the way it’s going to be... So, I’ve always worn my success very, very loosely, and I don’t take it too seriously, right from the beginning," she explained. This philosophy helps her maintain equilibrium, ensuring that neither triumphs nor setbacks dictate her self-worth or emotional state.
Fulfillment Beyond External Validation
With maturity and experience, Kareena has discerned what truly matters for sustained fulfillment. She points out that while public admiration is rewarding, it should not be the sole focus. "It’s something that we all look forward to, but it can’t be the be-all and end-all of your life," she remarked on the subject of external acclaim.
She highlighted that after years in the industry, one realizes the importance of working for oneself and valuing genuine connections. "You work for yourself too. And of course, your fans are so loyal... that’s ultimately what matters. Not the Instagram likes, not how you look... It’s your performance, your loyal fans—these are the things that count more than anything else," Kareena asserted, shifting the focus from superficial metrics to authentic artistry and support.
Expert Backing: The Psychology of Resilience
Counseling psychologist Srishti Vatsa supports Kareena's views, underscoring the importance of acknowledging one's shortcomings. Vatsa explains that this self-awareness is foundational for developing resilience and effectively managing emotions during setbacks.
According to the expert, recognizing limitations without self-judgment fosters a growth mindset. "It means being aware of your limitations without judging yourself. You can focus on improvement rather than perfection," Vatsa noted. This realistic self-assessment allows individuals to recalibrate their skills and potential.
Vatsa further clarified that accepting weaknesses is not an admission of defeat but a strategic step toward growth. "This will make room for personal and professional growth. It also encourages you to seek help—learning and collaborating with others when needed," she said. Ultimately, this approach builds a stronger, more resilient sense of self, enabling one to weather the storms of both failure and success with grace.
