Inspired By is the format where we meet women of different ages and in various industries who inspire us. We have met actress Julia Dufvenius in a conversation about career choices, golden rules, and the importance of recovery.
HAS A CAREER AS AN ACTRESS ALWAYS BEEN THE OBVIOUS CHOICE FOR YOU?
I have wanted to be an actress since I was very young. I would almost like to say that I have had "blinders" on, which has meant that I have never seen anything else. I can of course question that now that I am an adult, while at the same time I have always known that this has been the obvious path for me to take.
Something that has changed during my career, however, is that I have gone from thinking that dark, black, and difficult culture was very interesting, to today thinking that it is quite uninteresting. Within culture, there has long been a focus on destroying those who do wrong. But I would like to turn that perspective around; doing wrong can instead open new doors and pave new paths. Doing wrong is healthy! It is important to dare to understand that as a woman.
WHAT IS RECOVERY TO YOU?
Recovery for me is stillness and reflection. I am a highly sensitive person; just going out the door and into the grocery store gives me so many impressions. Recovery can also be being fed with culture and beautiful things, such as meditation, a good dinner, my friends, or a good series. Or on the other hand, being able to exert myself and exercise hard is also one of my best things for recovery.
When I am in balance in that spectrum—that is, with recovery, production, and also spirituality—then I feel good. The older I get, the more I realize that things must be allowed to take time!
YOU HAVE 10 MINUTES TO SPARE ONE MORNING, WHAT DO YOU DO?
Get back into bed with a cup of coffee and read the newspaper. Without a doubt. Or perhaps take a bath. 10 minutes is enough. It is so important to take advantage of that extra time, regardless of whether it is just 5 minutes. Give it to yourself!
WHICH GARMENT MAKES YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE, REGARDLESS OF THE SITUATION?
I am so lazy when it comes to clothes..! But it is important for me to feel well-dressed. The days when I am busy and have to head out immediately after work, I always choose a wrap dress. Otherwise, a silk blouse, trousers, and boots. These garments mean that I am ready for everything that happens during the day.
Julia's wardrobe hero, Mira Wrap Dress
WHICH 4 GOLDEN RULES DO YOU LIVE BY?
1. Thoughtfulness is the most important thing in all relationships.
2. Doing difficult things immediately. Otherwise, I forget and it doesn't get done.
3. Being a good listener. That is the finest thing you can give someone.
4. Be careful with good advice! There is nothing worse than unsolicited advice. In relationships and life issues, I am happy to share what has worked and not worked for me. But I cannot say what will work for you.
