"Action!" vs "Okay..."

I saw an interesting clip of filmmaker Clint Eastwood discussing his directing style.

Most directors use the phrase “Action!” to proceed with the shot and cue the actors to perform. But Eastwood never says that. He uses a softer “Okay..” before he begins.

Why the shift? He explains: “Because “action” jars people’s nerves. I don’t want that. I want to start and get people at their very best. And that means keeping their nervous system under wraps.”

Such a nice example of how small changes can make a big difference. Tone, words, and delivery all matter in leadership to set people up for success.