About Quote by Mike Nichols
“It took me forever, learning improvisation, because I had studied with Lee Strasberg - I dropped out of Chicago and went to his classes in New York for a couple of years, once or twice a week. What I didn't realize was I was learning directing because he wasn't all that good about acting, not for me.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast with The Hollywood Reporter, 2014
He discovered that his acting lessons unintentionally taught him directing skills, revealing the indirect benefits of learning from imperfect teachers.
In simple terms: Learning acting taught him directing unexpectedly.
Embrace unexpected lessons from imperfect mentors.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Acting class
- directing projects
- career pivot
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden skills have you gained from a flawed teacher?
- How can you turn imperfect instruction into advantage?
If the teacher is weak, you may still gain valuable skills elsewhere.