Tip#660: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 1 – Fast & Furious 6

“We’re family. You got a problem we deal with it together.” 
Fast & Furious 6 (2013) 

Ever since I wrote the blog post for Swapsity.ca called “Tapping into the Power of Community to Find a New Apartment”, I have received an outpouring of support and have witnessed, once again, the power of social media. People that I knew and didn’t know were sharing the link to the blog post on their Facebook walls and other group walls. I was blown away by the sense of community I was feeling. It was feeling like an extended family of support.

Fast & Furious (2013)

The action film, Fast & Furious 6 is the sixth installment of the series featuring exciting, over the top vehicle chases, elaborate heists, sexy superhero like characters and very cool cars. The leader of the group, Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) discovers that the women he loved, Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) is still alive and makes it his goal to bring her back home because she is simply family. So with the help of agent Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson), Toretto assembles his crew arriving from all over the world who completely support his goal. See: movie trailer

Though this film is filled with thrilling car chases and testosterone-injected dialogue and visuals there is the strong sense of family at the heart of the story. It’s about how far people will go to help someone that may not be of blood relations but are still seen as family. It’s an uplifting message and reminder that family can extend to the communities you feel drawn to or even online through social media communities. Family is a powerful, connecting feeling.

What does family mean to you? Do you have a favourite movie that shows what family is to you? Please let me know. I could feature it because it just may inspire someone who needs to hear it!

Related Tips:
Tip#660: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 1 – Fast & Furious 6 
Tip#712: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 2 - Love Actually 
Tip#773: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 3 - Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
Tip#794: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 4 - The Good Lie
Tip#795: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 5 – This is Where I Leave You 
Tip#948: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 6 – The Jungle Book
Tip#995: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 7 - Captain Fantastic
Tip#1073: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 8 - Office Christmas Party 
Tip#1093: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 9 - Grandma 
 
Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#659: Take a Leap of Faith – Oz the Great and Powerful

“When you walk to the edge of all the light you have, and take that first step into the darkness of the unknown, you must believe that one of two things will happen: There will be something solid for you to stand upon, or, you will be taught how to fly.” 
Patrick Overton, The Faith poem 

This poem about faith is truly inspiring me because I have taken a leap of faith and followed my inner voice to use the power of social media to find a new apartment by June 1st. I put the word out via the second article I wrote for the Swapsity.ca blog called:
 “Tapping into the Power of Community to Find a New Apartment”.

This meant being more transparent to the world about my personal challenges. And it was frightening. This has pushed the boundaries of my comfort zone and yet have been fully supported by Marta Nowinska, the founder of Swapsity.ca. I just know that it is my purpose in life to share my stories because if it helps inspire someone else going through difficult times then taking my leap of faith would have been worth it.

Oz the Great and Powerful (2013)

The fantasy adventure film, Oz the Great and Powerful is a prequel to the classic film The Wizard of Oz. It’s about a small-time magician named Oscar Diggs (James Franco) who gets transported into the magical land of Oz who is believed to be the prophesied Wizard. Filled with visually stunning landscapes and whimsical characters this story is also brimming with life lessons to inspire you.

Resourcefulness:
Oscar taps into his passion for magic and Thomas Edison’s inventions to solve a major problem

Community:
You see how a community with people of different skill sets come together to create the solution for their problems based on Oscar’s plan and strategy

Faith & Believing:
Glinda the good witch (Michelle Williams) demonstrates a strong positive attitude and consistently reminds Oscar that she believes in him

At one point Oscar actually must take a leap of faith and step off a cliff with no visible landing. And when he does and suddenly finds himself flying it is an exhilarating moment to see! I was guided to watch this again recently and seeing that scene was a mirror for what I am doing in my life right now. And this movie hero reminded me that everything will be okay! I just have to keep my faith alive.

Have you ever had to take a leap of faith and found your life transformed? Please let me know. I could feature it because it just may inspire someone who really needs to hear it!

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#658: Cultivate Community, Part 4 – Into the White

Did you know when you are in a state of fear you stop breathing? I’ve had to remember this many times in this month of May because of the challenges I’ve been managing. And once I start breathing again my indestructible optimism slowly comes back online. I’m able to hear and embrace the words of encouragement from the good people around me.

Earlier in the month I was able to talk to someone who learned to manage the aftermath of his bankruptcy as this is a big part of what I’ve been dealing with recently. First point he made was to surround myself with people who love me. He also said find new circles of people and communities to connect with. So for the past few weeks I have attended many local gatherings and events and making new friends.

Some of these gatherings included the inspiring Tad Hargrave and Rob Helmer events at The Inner Garden. Also the new movie nights at the Bohemian Palace hosted by Darren Austin Hall and Megan Marie Gates. And so the silver lining of my current challenges has led me to discover new and wonderful communities!

Into the White (2012)

The World War II film, Into the White is based on a true story about a group of British and German soldiers who find themselves stranded in a cold wilderness. Sheltered in the same cabin, they realize the only way to survive the winter is to put aside their differences and work together. Starring Rupert Grint from the Harry Potter films, this story is fascinating as they slowly begin to bond over common interests like family, games, food and music. See: movie trailer

The story was inspiring in how they learned to live together and support one another. And I am so happy that true stories like this get made into films so the theme of building community can inspire others. It demonstrates that the spirit of community can always shine through and dissolve the walls between people when it comes to facing the same adversity.

Do you have any favourite movies where different groups of people come together for a common cause? Please let me know!

Related Tips:
Tip#172: Cultivate Community, Part 1 – Witness
Tip#651: Cultivate Community, Part 2 - Defiance
Tip#656: Cultivate Community, Part 3 – Swapsity - Phenomenon 
Tip#658: Cultivate Community, Part 4 – Into the White
Tip#668: Cultivate Community, Part 5 – Be Kind Rewind 
Tip#686: Cultivate Community, Part 6 – Ip Man
Tip#687: Cultivate Community, Part 7 – Rotary Club - Groundhog Day
Tip#707: Cultivate Community, Part 8 – Movie Nights - Christmas in Connecticut
Tip#781: Cultivate Community, Part 9 - The Hundred-Foot Journey
Tip#853: Cultivate Community, Part 10 - Endurance - McFarland, USA
Tip#566: Feel a Sense of Community – Red Dog

Remember How Movies Can Help You:
A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here 

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#657: Deal with Unexpected Changes, Pt. 2 - Star Trek into Darkness

Did you ever grow up with a favourite TV show that continued to change and evolve as you became an adult? Star Trek is one of those shows and it has always inspired my imagination and my career. The original TV series with Captain Kirk and Spock first came out in 1966 and later spawned four TV series, an animated series and twelve motion pictures over several decades!

The latest movie affected me on many levels. It was highly entertaining and gave me many motivational messages. And because this is the second film re-imagined by director J.J. Abrams there are factors he changed that I loved AND didn’t like. And yet I still feel the changes are acceptable when I look at the bigger picture of having been entertained and inspired. Seeing this movie became a powerful metaphor for my own life. I have had many unexpected life changes and am choosing to focus on the bigger picture that they are helping me be a stronger person and more of the hero in my own story!

Star Trek into Darkness (2013)

The science fiction action movie, Star Trek into Darkness, is the second story that continues in an alternate reality from the original TV shows and motion picture series. The crew of the Enterprise are sent to stop a superhuman terrorist within their own organization. Without giving away much more, this entertaining installment is full of action, space battles, fantastic special effects and some moving performances. See: movie trailer

I was inspired by the messages of friendship, family and of making decisions in the face of overwhelming situations. These are explored through Captain Kirk (Chris Pine), Spock (Zachary Quinto), Uhura (Zoe Saldana) and the terrorist (an outstanding Benedict Cumberbatch). And as I said there are changes that long time fans of Star Trek may or may not appreciate so see this film with an open mind. You may enjoy the ride a lot more!

Have you been a fan of Star Trek growing up? What do you think of the changes being made in the alternate timeline of the latest film series? Please let me know!

Related Tips:
Tip#479: Deal with Unexpected Changes, Pt. 1 – The Change-Up – Crazy, Stupid, Love
Tip#657: Deal with Unexpected Changes, Pt. 2 - Star Trek into Darkness
Tip#871: Deal with Unexpected Changes, Pt. 3 - Before We Go 



Remember How Movies Can Help You: 

A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#656: Cultivate Community, Part 3 – Swapsity - Phenomenon

Over the years I’ve attended fun outdoor events hosted by Swapsity.ca here in Toronto where people traded in their old DVD’s, CD’s and books. I would trade in my old movies and it was so enjoyable finding new treasures! It was also fun watching others find DVD's they wanted! I met the warm-hearted Founder, Marta Nowinska, whose mission with Swapsity.ca is to build a community of people supporting each other by swapping items and services. She also wants to help people transform their relationship with money, the environment and the spirit of collaboration.

I met with Marta recently and opened up to her about the mental and emotional shock resulting from my financial challenges over the years (see Tip#400) and how swapping services helped me get the wellness therapy I needed but couldn’t afford. She was so inspired and encouraged me to share my stories on the Swapsity.ca blog. Marta said that my experiences could help others going through difficult times and see swapping as a powerful solution. See the first in a series of posts now online called: “How Swapping Can Help You in Difficult Times”

Phenomenon (1996)

The romantic fantasy drama, Phenomenon, is about a small town auto mechanic named George Malley (John Travolta) who suddenly experiences a strange light in the sky that activates the full power of his brain. George is able to speed read, learn foreign languages instantly and even move objects with his mind. One scene that always inspired me has to do with swapping. See: movie trailer

The scene involved one man who couldn’t pay for the repair of his car, so George quickly recommends that he help another person dig their well and they can then help George assemble solar panels he needs. Everyone wins in this three-way barter! Swapping services was a smart solution and I believe anyone can apply this to their own needs without letting the lack of money stop them. Plus it helps cultivate a stronger sense of community.

Do you have any interesting stories about swapping? Or do you remember other inspiring movies that feature trading or bartering? Please let me know! Your stories could help inspire others!

Related Tips:
Tip#172: Cultivate Community, Part 1 – Witness
Tip#651: Cultivate Community, Part 2 - Defiance
Tip#656: Cultivate Community, Part 3 – Swapsity - Phenomenon 
Tip#658: Cultivate Community, Part 4 – Into the White
Tip#668: Cultivate Community, Part 5 – Be Kind Rewind 
Tip#686: Cultivate Community, Part 6 – Ip Man
Tip#687: Cultivate Community, Part 7 – Rotary Club - Groundhog Day
Tip#707: Cultivate Community, Part 8 – Movie Nights - Christmas in Connecticut
Tip#781: Cultivate Community, Part 9 - The Hundred-Foot Journey
Tip#853: Cultivate Community, Part 10 - Endurance - McFarland, USA
Tip#566: Feel a Sense of Community – Red Dog 

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#655: See Life As An Adventure, Part 1 - Kon-Tiki

As I continue to look for a new home and deal with other pressing issues, this month of May continues to test my faith and indestructible optimism. Without getting into details just imagine times in your life or career where you’ve felt hopeless. Everything looks dark right? The key I’ve found that helps shift my heavy mindset is to FEEL I am on an adventure. I start getting excited at new possibilities and experiences. And then, even if it’s a brief magical moment, the sun, sky and colours all around me FEEL so much brighter. I can move forward with confidence again.

Kon-Tiki (2012)

The Norwegian historical drama, Kon-Tiki is about legendary explorer Thor Heyerdal’s (Pål Sverre Hagen) 4,300 miles crossing of the Pacific on a balsa wood raft in 1947. Along with his crew of five men Heyerdahl set out to prove it was possible for South Americans to settle in Polynesia in pre-Columbian times. The film features some beautiful oceanic scenery mirroring the images of the film Life of Pi while also showing the resilience of moving through extremely difficult challenges. See: movie trailer

The challenges are three fold for Heyerdal. First are his wife’s objections for him following his dream, secondly in convincing organizations (National Geographic Society) to support and fund his mission AND thirdly surviving at sea on his raft with only the basic resources from the pre-Columbian times. Despite all these challenges Heyerdal is inspiring in maintaining his vision and goal no matter what he faces. And he always saw his mission as an adventure!

Are there adventure movies that you love watching over and over again? What adventure films inspire you to persevere and continue on your journey in life and career? Please let me know!

TODAY IS MOTHER’S DAY!
Read a previous post for my favourite Mother’s Day movie...
Tip#454: Is Your Mom A Superhero? - The Prize Winner of Defiance Ohio

Related Tips:
Tip#655: See Life As An Adventure, Part 1 - Kon-Tiki
Tip#667: See Life As An Adventure, Part 2 – 4 Movie Tips
Tip#670: See Life As An Adventure, Part 3 – The Forbidden Kingdom
Tip#704: See Life As An Adventure, Part 4 - The Book Thief
Tip#826: See Life As An Adventure, Part 5 - Water for Elephants

Remember How Movies Can Help You:
A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#654: Recognize Your Wealth of Experiences - Being There

My faith is being stretched this month of May because I’ve been receiving confirmations that my primary purpose in life is to be even more transparent with the world and share more of my inspiring life experiences, positives and negatives. For example, I recently had a deeply insightful Skype call with Mark Turner, an executive coach in the UK, who told me “I have a wealth of experiences that need to be shared.”

Over the past months I’ve been wanting to be of greater service with my multiple skills and talents such as: speaker, facilitator, writer, social media consulting, illustrator, etc. My challenge has been focusing these talents which is why I’ve been seeking help in this area. And I was moved when Mark recognized my “wealth of experiences” because it also extended to why I write this movie blog. I’ve been inspiring readers all over the world for over six years and have been searching for how to take it to a higher level.

Being There (1979)

The comedy drama film, Being There, is about a simple-minded gardener named Chance (Peter Sellers) who affects every person he meets in a profound, inspiring way. The irony is that his passion for TV and gardening are part of his jargon and heard by others as optimistic, life affirming wisdom. There are many hilarious scenes that result with new friends he makes like a wealthy, dying man Benjamin Rand (Melvyn Douglas), his wife Eve (Shirley MacLaine) and the US President (Jack Warden). See: movie trailer

I saw this film when it first came out and now gained new insights and enjoyment because Mark highly recommended I see it again. Very much like Forrest Gump, Chance was just being his authentic, true self and he automatically had a profound affect on everyone he met. Chance was not burdened by ego or hiding anything about himself. And his wealth of experiences included information derived from TV and his views on gardening. He made a difference in the world just by being open, fearless and for speaking his truth!

If you feel you have a wealth of experiences to share then be inspired by movie heroes who are authentic and fearless about sharing what they know. Your experiences are meaningful to someone somewhere. What movie heroes inspire you to be more fearless? Please let me know!

Remember How Movies Can Help You:
A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping You Identify & Communicate Your Greatness!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#653: Passion, Perseverance & People - Iron Man 3

Have you ever been astounded when you see a movie and it mirrors so much of what is happening in your life at that moment? This happens to me all the time and it astounds me more when it is a just released film. This time it was Iron Man 3. I found it highly entertaining, inspiring AND it stirred some emotional pain from my past.

As you’ve seen by the poster or trailers, Tony Stark a.k.a. Iron Man, has his home and life destroyed and is basically stripped down to just being a man. Watching these scenes shook me up and I flashed back to my bankruptcy three years ago losing my own home and most of my possessions (see tip#400). The film also shows Stark dealing with post-traumatic stress which mirrored my own recurring moments of darkness I’m still learning to manage. I felt a deep connection to this movie hero.

Iron Man 3 (2013)

The action superhero film, Iron Man 3, is the second sequel that involves the destruction of Tony Stark/Iron Man’s (Robert Downey Jr.) world and learning to survive on his own. He also has to work with what ever he can find to deal with the villains responsible called The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) and scientist Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce). The film is overflowing with fantastic action sequences, super performances and exciting special effects! See: movie trailer

There are also a multitude of insights for overcoming difficult times in your own life. Here are three that I believe are primary keys to remember:

Passion:
As he says in the film, at his core, Tony Stark is a passionate mechanic. Remembering this kick starts his move towards rebuilding his life

Perseverance:
Defined as a steady persistence in a course of action or purpose despite difficulties, failure or opposition. Stark demonstrates all of this throughout the story

People:
Goals can be achieved faster with the help of others. When Stark finds himself alone he is able to connect with one supportive person (a young boy. Stark was stronger with him.

If a movie you see speaks to you on a deep level do your best not to shrug it off as coincidence. Allow yourself to look at the movie hero’s struggles and choices that lead him/her to overcoming their challenges and achieving their goals. The success factors they demonstrate can mirror your inner strengths and potential!

Remember How Movies Can Help You:
A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping You Identify & Communicate Your Greatness!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#652: Passion & Perseverance, Part 3 - The Company You Keep

This month of May will be a big month of change as I’ve started to put the word out that I need help taking my motivational business to the next level. I’ve had a big dream for my Movies For Motivation book series to be combined with my motivational talks and know there are business experts (management, development, collaboration) that would be eager to assist. I just have to persevere to find them.

At the same time I am looking for a new home and prepping to do some motivational presentations. At first it was overwhelming but I am remembering to take time to meditate and clear my mind. I have visualized my goals and remembering that I have an amazing network of contacts to reach out to for help.

The Company You Keep (2012)

The political action thriller, The Company You Keep, is about a former anti-Vietnam War militant Jim Grant (Robert Redford) and an aggressive young reporter Ben Shepard (Shai LaBeouf) who each persevere relentlessly to achieve their goals. Shepard has a passion for uncovering and reporting the truth which exposes Grant. Grant then goes on the run while tenaciously reaching out to his old contacts to help him find a woman who can save him. It is his passion for his daughter that drives him.

This engaging film is filled with many other stars like Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci, Julie Christie, Terrence Howard, Nick Nolte and several more that you will recognize. They are either helping Grant or Shepard or trying to stop them. In the end their passion fuels them to do whatever it takes to attain their goals.

Let movie heroes inspire your own passion and perseverance. Let their tenacity and aggressive drive mirror your own abilities to go after your dreams and goals. And remember you are not alone, you already have the contacts to help you to your next step!

Related Tips:
Tip#534: Passion & Perseverance, Part 1 – 100th Year Anniversary - Titanic 
Tip#543: Passion & Perseverance, Part 2 – The Natural, Director's Cut 
Tip#652: Passion & Perseverance, Part 3 - The Company You Keep 
Tip#691: Passion & Perseverance, Part 4 - Rocky
Tip#731: Passion & Perseverance, Part 5 – The Right Kind of Wrong
Tip#752: Passion & Perseverance, Part 6 - Dolphin Tale
Tip#760: Passion & Perseverance, Part 7 - Today’s Special
Tip#864: Passion & Perseverance, Part 8 - Danny Collins
Tip#885: Passion & Perseverance, Part 9 - Outbreak
Tip#953: Passion & Perseverance, Part 10 - Eddie the Eagle 

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping You Identify & Communicate Your Greatness!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013