Will Packer’s Billion Dollar Secret: From Newspapers to Box Office King

Ever delivered newspapers at 3 a. m. to make ends meet? Will Packer has. But that was just the beginning.

Fast forward a few years. His first film, “Trois,” hit theaters in 2000. It made $1. 2 million. Boom. It became the fastest African-American distributed film to break the million-dollar mark.

Now? Packer, 51, has produced around 30 movies. Combined, they’ve earned over $1 billion. Yes, with a “B. ”

Ten of his films opened at No. 1. Think “Think Like a Man Too” and “Ride Along 2. ” And “Girls Trip”? It soared to $140 million on a $19 million budget.

What’s the Secret?

Packer credits his mindset. He calls it “healthy arrogance. ” It’s a strong belief in your own success. Even when things look tough.

His new book, “Who Better Than You? ” talks about this. He wants entrepreneurs to embrace that “healthy arrogance. ” He believes successful people just know they’re meant to win.

Empty Seats, Full House

Packer remembers his first independent film, “Chocolate City. ” He booked the front row for VIPs. Premiere night? Empty.

But the rest of the theater? Packed. Students were excited to see themselves on screen.

His takeaway? You hold the power. Your dream isn’t over until you say it is.

The Marathon Analogy

Having a great idea is like having the perfect shoes for a marathon. You’re at the starting line. You’re ready. But you still have 26. 2 miles to run.

That’s the work you have to put in. Your success? It depends on you. And your belief in yourself.

What Exactly is “Healthy Arrogance? ”

It’s believing your success is meant to be. That you deserve it.

Packer says the most successful people he knows have it. They believe there’s nobody better than them. Nobody more deserving.

Taking the First Step

Afraid to start? Been preparing forever?

Packer says now is the time to go. Take the leap. Preparation is good, but don’t let it stop you.

Newspaper Routes and Business Lessons

Before Hollywood, Packer delivered newspapers. From 3 a. m. to 6 a. m.

What did he learn? Everything is sales.

“Everything is Sales? ”

Think about it. When someone opens the door, you have a split second. You need to grab their attention.

Same with business. You might have a little more time with a pitch. But you have to make them feel like you’re not wasting their time.

Make their day better. That’s the key.