A Bug’s Life was the second Pixar movie ever created, and I got to work with John Lasseter and people that are still making Pixar films now. In my book, it was really hard to describe the process of working on an animated movie. I mean, try getting most seven-year-olds to stand there in a recording studio for hours at a time.

I did a movie called Joe Somebody with Tim Allen, and I remember asking him what his favorite movie was. (Laughs) I think it’s one of the only times I’ve ever asked a celebrity a fan question. His answer was, “Whichever one I did last.” Each project has its own incredible set of memories.

Finally, there was another quote I wanted to highlight: You view the darker periods in your life, not as losses, but as “lifequakes” — something that can tear you down, but also something that can make you stronger. Is that a perspective that you always held, or is that something that you learned over time?

I had to learn that over time, absolutely, because I have always been, and still am, my biggest critic. In the moment that you’re dealing with these lifequakes, it’s like the world is crumbling around you, and nothing is ever going to be okay again. The more of them you get past and get through, the more you realize, this too shall pass. Even though it doesn’t feel like it right now, this is temporary. That’s what I really want this book to be for — I hope that by sharing my stories and my struggles, that it can help readers not feel alone in their own.

I hope this book clarifies who I am and puts to rest many of the preconceived ideas people have about me. I’ve always said I feel like I’m one of the most misunderstood people. I want people to finish it feeling surprised, and like they know me better as a person. I hope people will feel like they are not alone and that they can overcome any obstacles and get back up. It’s all about how you get back up, dust yourself off, and keep moving.

Thank you, Hayden, for sharing your story. This Is Me is available now.
Keep up with Hayden on Instagram, @haydenpanettiere.