Tom Hanks: #1 Theory Tom Uses in Order to Live a Balanced and Fulfilled Life

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

What does a balanced life look like for you?

Are you getting enough time to recharge?

Today, Jay engages in a deeply reflective conversation with legendary actor, filmmaker, and writer Tom Hanks. With a career spanning over four decades, Hanks is renowned for his roles in iconic films like Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, and The Green Mile, earning him two Academy Awards.

Tom opens up about his unconventional childhood, moving frequently and adjusting to new environments, which shaped his adaptability and taught him the art of letting go. As he reflects on his career, he discusses how he continues to find purpose and depth in his work, emphasizing the joy of collaboration and the importance of staying curious.

Together, Jay and Tom discuss how certain locations hold emotional weight, becoming symbols of comfort or life-changing reflection. They also touch on generational wisdom, the role of luck, and finding joy in small, shared experiences. With his characteristic humor and humility, Tom offers listeners a glimpse into his contemplative nature and the lessons he's learned over the years, reminding us all of the power of presence and community.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Find Comfort in Solitude

How to Embrace Life's Unexpected Changes

How to Connect Across Generations

How to Trust Your Instincts and Take Risks

How to Stay Curious at Any Age

How to Discover Purpose in Your Work

How to Show Up Fully in Relationships

How to Find Wisdom in Life’s Challenges

How to Pursue Meaning over Perfection

Life isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about embracing the unknown with openness, honoring the journey, and finding meaning in each moment, each experience, and each relationship.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:17 Early Life Lessons: Childhood, Change, and Resilience
• 05:37 Mastering the Art of Detachment
• 10:15 Discovering Theater and Passion in High School
• 18:56 Can We Create Our Own Luck?
• 21:35 Exploring the Sacred Sites of Jerusalem
• 27:03 Owning Your Mistakes and When to Take Personal Responsibility
• 30:52 The Third Space: Finding Balance Beyond Work and Home
• 37:03 Fathers and the Lasting Impact on Their Sons
• 38:42 Nurturing Kids’ Interests for Genuine Growth
• 42:59 The Value of Academic Ambition
• 45:21 Capturing the Present: Finding Magic in Every Moment
• 52:46 Reflections on Seeing Your Younger Self in the Movie
• 55:03 Finding Presence in Everyday Life
• 58:04 The Freedom of Following Your True Desires
• 01:04:25 Imagining the Dream Life: Building a Path to Fulfillment
• 01:07:29 Themes of Time and Place in the Film Here
• 01:09:01 The Fascination with Reaching the Moon
• 01:11:04 Unraveling a Deep Fascination with WWII
• 01:18:01 Becoming America’s Most Trusted Voice
• 01:21:07 Grateful for the Blessings of Family
• 01:22:04 Observing Life’s Passing Moments
• 01:27:42 Honored with Greek Citizenship
• 01:31:31 Tom on Final Five

Episode Resources:

• Tom Hanks | Instagram

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