You may recognize Rashida Jones from her iconic roles in Parks and Recreation and Angie Tribeca, but she's also a prolific multi-hyphenate who balances writing, producing, and directing in her busy schedule. Most recently, she helmed a new spot alongside her long-time friend and collaborator, Amy Poehler, for Pure Leaf's Campaign #NoisBeautiful.
How does she hold it all down? Here, she shares some creative rituals that keep her going.
Why did you want to direct this spot with Amy Poehler?
Rashida Jones: Because I will find any excuse to spend time with my dear friend. Plus, she’s a comedy god and I love watching her work.
The slogan of the campaign is “No is beautiful”—what does that mean to you?
It took me years to come around to seeing the good in saying no. You can’t say yes unless you say no. Time is finite and in order to prioritize yourself, you have to learn to say no.
When you’re on set—whether behind the camera or in front of it—is there anything that you must always have with you?
Snacks. And coffee.
Do you have any personal rituals to kickstart your creativity?
I like to listen, watch, or read something. It doesn’t have to be mindblowingly inspiring, it just has to be original and jolt me out of my own mundanity.
It’s a long day of shooting and you need to wake up—what song do you put on?
Raphael Saadiq and Q Tip's "Get Involved" or Jay Z's "Dirt Off Your Shoulder."
What’s the most game-changing piece of creative advice you’ve ever gotten?
My dad always reminds me to make decisions based on love and not fear. That applies fundamentally to being creative. If I get really quiet, I can get to this core question.
Rashida Jones
Rashida Jones is an American actress, producer, writer, singer, and director. She is known for her roles in the series ‘Boston Public,’ ‘The Office,’ and ‘Angie Tribeca.’ She has also appeared in movies such as ‘I Love You, Man,’ ‘The Social Network,’ ‘Our Idiot Brother,’ and ‘Celeste and Jesse Forever.’
