Entrepreneurs are natural problem-solvers, which means that we always have ideas for new businesses popping into our heads. Having a lot of options is great, but sometimes it can be hard to focus on one when you are keen to move onto the next.
When you ask me why I do one film a year, it is not my fault. I've chosen what I liked from whatever work came my way.
If I got a chance to take one percent of the deal either way, I would make that bet.
There are no bad business and investment opportunities, but there are bad entrepreneurs and investors.
My m.o. as far as choosing projects is I really try not to work. I try to not do the scripts that are offered me.
I'm an actor. My life as an actor depends on who sends me what. I'm just taking the best stuff that I can find that's sent my way, regardless of how big or little the paycheck is. I don't want to work for scale anymore. I'm at a point now where, no matter how good something is, I'm not going to kill myself and end up in the hole.
There is no discussion inside this boardroom to say we've got to get into this or that. We look at every growth opportunity on its merits.
I admit, I do a lot of projects, but it's because I'm in a position now where I'm reading a lot more scripts and plays and things, and I'm really listening to offers and trying to think what I want to do at any given time.
You have so many offers coming to you so as an actor it is all about finding which project to invest your energy in.
If you get asked to do something that would take place down the road (say you get asked to speak at a conference that's a year away) and you wouldn't want to do it if it were taking place next week, then don't do it. This advice has helped me evaluate the opportunities that I truly want to dedicate my time to and those that I don't.
The worst mistake is to have the best ladder and the wrong wall.
Successful people are decisive people. When opportunities come their way, they evaluate them carefully, make a decision, and take appropriate action. They know that indecision wastes time that could be spent on more productive tasks.
If I get an offer, and I think there is something I can do, then I will think about it... I am ready to consider any film and TV acting offers, provided it is great.
I'm very, very lucky to be a working actor, but I've also been careful. I don't just take anything. 'Durham County' came to me. You have to look at the quality of work you do, and 'Durham' set the standard. I wait for things that keep me really interested.
You need to see what kind of offers come your way. Just because it is Bollywood, doesn't mean that you have to take it.
We spend as much time looking at companies that are smaller than we are as we do at those that are bigger.
I pass on any opportunity I see that I can't add value on.
My game plan is very simple. If something good comes up, I will check if those required dates are free and I will do the film. Regardless of the language and the scope of the project.
I do get offered a lot more roles than I choose to do. I'm very busy as a producer and a writer, especially with my Internet stuff, and I tend to only accept the roles that I know will have an impact and has a fanbase.
I don't have 4 or 5 projects in front of me and an offer on every one saying 'what one would you like to do?' Things come along one at a time.
Following 'Urumi,' I did get a lot of offers from Malayalam, but frankly, managing films in several industries can become a little hectic. So I decided not to take them up.
My agents and my managers are very good at whittling things down to the things they think I would be good at and that I'd respond well to, and that includes theater, TV and film. Whatever it is, if the material is right for me, then I'll go for it.
