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Jessica Henwick Embraces Slow Living Amidst Hollywood Hustle

3/11/2026, 9:39:23 PM

Balancing Career and Personal Well-Being

Jessica Henwick, an actress known for her roles in major productions such as Netflix's *Vladimir* and *How to Make a Killing*, is navigating the challenges of a demanding career while advocating for a lifestyle centered around "slow living." Henwick, who has been active in the industry since her teenage years, reflects on her journey and the pressures of hustle culture that often accompany success in Hollywood.

In *How to Make a Killing*, Henwick portrays Ruth, a fashion designer who leaves the high-pressure world to become a teacher. This character's journey resonates with Henwick, who has experienced the relentless pursuit of success for over 15 years. "It's really easy to lose sight of why you started doing what you do," she states, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection in a fast-paced industry.

The Shift Towards Mindfulness

Henwick has begun to prioritize activities that promote mental well-being, such as gardening, reading, and playing the piano, which she previously dismissed as unproductive. She acknowledges that these practices help her slow down and be present, countering the fast-paced demands of her career. "Some of the stuff that we tell ourselves to care about... you're not going to be thinking about any of that," she remarks, highlighting the need for a shift in perspective regarding what truly matters in life.

To further distance herself from the pressures of social media and public discourse surrounding her work, Henwick has implemented time limits on her social media usage. This strategy allows her to maintain a healthier mental state while managing the reception of her projects. She notes that while *How to Make a Killing* received a lukewarm critical response, *Vladimir* has garnered more favorable reviews from critics.

Navigating Industry Challenges

Despite her commitment to slow living, Henwick acknowledges the difficulties of balancing this philosophy with the demands of her profession. Recently, she completed filming for Apple TV's *Silo* and is working on a script for her directorial debut. However, she expresses concern about the current state of the film industry, particularly with the looming threat of strikes and the consolidation of companies that finance independent cinema. "Trying to scrape together money in a very tumultuous industry right now is hard," she states, reflecting on the challenges faced by filmmakers today.

Embracing Selectivity in Career Choices

As Henwick continues to build her career, she is becoming more selective about the roles she accepts. "I've started to say no and not just take any job that's kind of coming my way," she explains, indicating a desire to align her professional choices with her personal values. This approach marks a significant shift in her career strategy, as she seeks to find a balance between ambition and well-being.

Verbatim Quotes

  • "It's really easy to lose sight of why you started doing what you do." — Jessica Henwick, Actress
  • "Some of the stuff that we tell ourselves to care about... you're not going to be thinking about any of that." — Jessica Henwick, Actress
  • "Trying to scrape together money in a very tumultuous industry right now is hard." — Jessica Henwick, Actress
  • "I've started to say no and not just take any job that's kind of coming my way." — Jessica Henwick, Actress

Jessica Henwick's journey illustrates the ongoing struggle to balance personal well-being with the demands of a high-profile acting career, as she navigates the complexities of Hollywood while advocating for a more mindful approach to life.