If you work hard, whatever you want, it will come to you. I know that's easier said than done, but keep trying.

I'm a workaholic and I don't believe in 'no.' If I'm not sleeping, nobody's sleeping.

I felt very maternal around eight months. And I thought I couldn't become any more until I saw the baby... But it happened during my labor because I had a very strong connection with my child. I felt like when I was having contractions, I envisioned my child pushing through a very heavy door. And I imagined this tiny infant doing all the work, so I couldn't think about my own pain... We were talking. I know it sounds crazy, but I felt a communication.

I think it's healthy for a person to be nervous. It means you care - that you work hard and want to give a great performance. You just have to channel that nervous energy into the show.

I've grown so much. I'm more picky about what I'll do,and I'm more of a businesswoman. But at the same time, I take care of myself. All I used to do was work. Now I'm comfortable in my own skin and have a good balance.

I think it's healthy for a person to be nervous. It means you care.

Playing Etta James in the movie 'Cadillac Records' really changed me. It was a darker character, and I realized that if anything is too comfortable, I want to run from it. It's no fun being safe.