Tip#326: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 1 - Groundhog Day

Whether it's in your personal life or the workplace acknowledgement and support from another person is a powerful thing. And as I wrote in tip#324 and tip#325 one person can make a world of difference for someone feeling lost or hopeless.

I continued to celebrate this idea at 2 recent events I facilitated in Toronto. The first was hosting a panel of experts giving employment advice to job seekers at the IEP Conference for internationally educated professionals. To my amazement this over-capacity crowd spilled out into the hallway proving that many individuals needed help. I, and the panelists, reminded everyone continually of how important it was to network and support one another.

The second event I hosted was an exclusive private screening and motivational talk of the film, Groundhog Day at The Spoke Club. It was here I celebrated and shared one of my favourite movies with many of the close friends and colleagues that have supported me recently during my own challenges. It was an energizing night for all.

Groundhog Day 1993

The movie Groundhog Day is about transformation. It's about changing your mindset in order to change your current situations. The story features a self-centred weatherman named Phil Connors (Bill Murray) caught in a time warp and forced to live the same day in the same town over and over again. By changing his mindset he was able to break out of this private hell he was in. He focused on thinking of others first and committing random acts of kindness!

After the screening the group discussion lead to identifying the point at which Connors switched over his negative mindset after he sunk into a depression. One person brought up a powerful answer that Connors became optimistic when he finally asked for help and his producer Rita (Andie MacDowell) acknowledged his predicament.

This can be a profound moment for anyone in need. It is the moment of being acknowledged and believed in. And in that moment you can be filled with uplifting energy from the kindness of a friend, colleague or even a total stranger.

Ask For Help

So if you feel caught in your own private hell and can't break out, do your best to ask for help. Whether it's in the workplace or your personal life someone, somewhere will acknowledge your situation. Someone will believe in you and that form of recognition will fill you with positive emotional energy. You will be lifted high above your trapped mindset and see the positives of the negatives you are in.

It may take days, weeks or even years to travel through a challenge you feel caught in. Whatever happens always remember that there will be others along your path that will acknowledge and support your journey.

Happy Groundhog Day (Feb.2nd) to all my readers around the world! Celebrate all the people who are helping you along your life path!

Related Tips:
Tip#326: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 1 - Groundhog Day 
Tip#838: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 2 - What Women Want
Tip#848: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 3 – Mental Health in the Workplace - Kumiko, The Treasure Hunter  
Tip#602: You Are Awesome! Part 1 – Validation (short film)  
Tip#835: You Are Awesome! Part 2 - The Duff 
Tip#889: Random Acts of Kindness – Depression - Seven Pounds

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist
For Individuals & Organizations
www.motivatorman.com

Tip#325: Be Supportive and You'll Be Supported - The Blind Side

Blind side: Defined as the side on which your vision is limited or obstructed.

I feel I have been blind-sided these past few weeks with unexpected challenges. As I wrote in tip#322 my mind had been unfocused and my confidence shattered for my New Year's business goals.

It's now almost 3 weeks of feeling this way and thankfully I've been seeing the silver lining of this "positive pause" I've been floating in. If you can identify with these periods you'll know it can be mentally and emotionally painful because you can feel helpless and hopeless. You can feel lost and out of options.

And yet the most empowering, uplifting feeling can come from the caring, heartfelt support of friends, family and work colleagues. I truly feel blessed from the small circle of friends I have confided in recently about the depths of my challenges. They continually fill me with unlimited hope.

The Blind Side 2009

The drama sports film, The Blind Side, demonstrates the empowering feelings that come from giving AND receiving social support. The story is based on a true story of Michael Oher who was rescued from his impoverished upbringing by Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock) and her family.

Leigh Anne's heartfelt actions were so loving and caring that it will inspire you wherever you are in your life journey. And seeing the positive transformations in Michael, his school grades and football playing demonstrates the power of being able to help someone in need. Equally inspiring is how Leigh Anne's entire family was quick to welcome this black youth into their home especially her charismatic little boy S.J. (Jae Head).

Inspiring Themes:
• Passion
• Resilience
• Self-Confidence
• Compassion
• Leadership
• Teamwork & Team Spirit
• Supportive Relationships
• Indestructible Optimism

"I promise that I will be at every game cheering for you."

So if you feel you've been blind-sided in your life, workplace or career remember that there is always someone somewhere watching your back. You are not alone. And if things are going well right now, be aware that supportive relationships need to be nurtured all the time. Be inspired by Leigh Anne's ability to help others unconditionally. She is a fantastic role-model for women as well as men.

Learn to be in the flow of positive energy that supports and nurtures. And if you watch out for someone else's blind side that same caring energy can lead or inspire someone else to watch out for yours too!

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist &
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#324: You Are Already Connected – Haiti - Avatar

On January 22, 2010 there were 2 big fundraisers for the Haiti disaster that hit 2 weeks ago. One was the "Hope for Haiti Now" global benefit in the US with it's star-studded, live performances. It was the most widely distributed telethon in history. The other was Canada’s own event, the "Canada For Haiti" fundraiser here in my town of Toronto.

What was inspiring about the Canadian telecast is that it is the first time I've seen 3 different, competing networks come together with well-known hosts from each station: Cheryl Hickey (Global Television), Ben Mulroney (CTV) and George Stroumboulopoulos (CBC Television). Seeing them together reminded me that it is possible to break down invisible, competitive barriers between us.

The catastrophe in Haiti quickly captured the attention of the world. People opened their hearts in a way that inspires hope for us as a human species. It is demonstrating the deeper message of spiritual beliefs like Buddhism, Native Americans and motivational speakers around the world that remind us of our innate connectedness.

Avatar 2009

The movie Avatar recently won best picture at the Golden Globe Awards and director James Cameron gave an acceptance speech that addressed the most important aspect of the movie. He said he hoped that the award would bring attention to the message of the film’s alien culture of the Na'vi and their innate connectedness to one another and to the wild life and environment of their entire world.

It's a positive message that permeates the dazzling visual effects and has the capability to educate and motivate a new way of thinking. It can help expand a mindset to believe that we are not separate despite invisible barriers we may perceive are between people.

That's why the silver lining of disasters like Haiti, New Orleans and 9/11 is that they remind us we can come together for support on profound levels. We have the ability to put aside our daily routines and issues in the spirit of simply helping a neighbour in distress.

So let these global situations remind you that you are not alone in whatever challenges you face. Be aware that there is the spirit of community that already exists and that helpful souls are already around you. Be a part of this positive flow of energy whenever you can by giving whatever you're able to someone you encounter that needs help.

Do whatever you can whether it's for someone in need on the other side of the planet or in your own neighbourhood. Your thoughtful actions are what keeps our connectedness alive!

Read another inspiring blog post on how Avatar inspires connectedness with nature by Marie-Josée Salva, Founder of Smarts and Stamina. See: Nature, Spirituality and the Future

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#323: The Positive Aspects of Lying – The Invention of Lying

A powerful synchronicity has unfolded for me about the nature of lying. It started with one of my favourite TV shows called Lie to Me. It stars Tim Roth as Dr. Cal Lightman who can detect if people are lying through the science of microexpressions. Each episode is fascinating as well as entertaining.

I was then drawn to read Seth Godin's book, All Marketers Are Liars. This book is about the storytelling marketers create to grab us on a deep gut level and how anyone in business can succeed when they tell a compelling story about their product.

Finally I was compelled to watch the movie The Invention of Lying and the synchronistic message was fully revealed. It had to do with seeing the positive aspects of lying! I realized a new way to look at what truth really is and how that mindset can change YOUR world for the better.

The Invention of Lying 2009

The comedy The Invention of Lying is set in an alternate reality where no one has ever lied and where people always speak their minds. Therefore you get a unique and insightful peak into a world without fiction, imagination or speculation.

This all changes when Mark Bellison (Ricky Gervais) suddenly discovers he can "tell things that aren't". For example he experiments with this new gift and tells his friends his name is something completely different and they immediately believe him. No questions asked.

What unfolds is the key factor of what motivational speakers and successful people all over the real world have been telling us. And that is no matter what you currently see YOU have the power to create the change you want. YOU have the ability to tell yourself a different story instead of the one you feel stuck in. So, in an ironic sense, you are telling yourself a lie that results in positive change!

I explored this in tip#317 with other inspiring movies with the same storytelling theme like Shorts and Bedtime Stories. And it is even explored in the film Galaxy Quest. Movies are stories that can help you visualize a different and more satisfying future for yourself.

So realize that you can change your current reality by telling yourself a new story of what you'd like to happen. Choose to believe that the unhappy life or career you're experiencing is ACTUALLY the LIE. Choose to believe that other possibilities exist for yourself and you will discover your true inner power!

You are already a master storyteller. Just unleash the story you truly desire!

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#322: Choose The Healthiest Approach – A Beautiful Mind

I've had an unexpectedly challenging week despite an amazing first week of the New Year (see tip#320). It's as if I crashed from a sugar rush and was left unfocused, unmotivated and physically lethargic.

Instead of allowing these debilitating problems to consume me I took a break from work and focused on improving my health and state of mind. I researched "brain foods" to improve my sluggish mind like fish, spinach and blueberries and took action to change my diet immediately. Plus I did whatever simple exercises I could push myself to do.

Career Buzz Radio Show

My goal was to be well enough to co-host a live radio show called Career Buzz by the end of the week. Thankfully I achieved this goal and even got energized by the interactions I had with the 2 guests and the host Louisa Jewell.

It was also highly synchronistic that the guests happen to share empowering tips for improving mental health in both life and career. Eleanor Chin of Clarity Partners offered a simple, yet powerful metaphor to help inspire teamwork with the visual of a boulder and everyone coming together to move it as a common goal.

The 2nd guest, Marie-Josee Salvas Shaar of Smarts & Stamina shared many eye-opening tips on improving one's mindset through proper sleep patterns and shorter TV watching. This was even more synchronistic because my "Live Lighter/Writer Guru", Steph Miller is currently blogging about doing a TV detox to improve a healthier lifestyle.

The messages of these synchronicities were loud and clear. They were helping me see that I was on the right path for choosing the healthiest approach.

A Beautiful Mind 2001

The movie A Beautiful Mind is based on the inspiring life of Nobel Prize winner, John Nash (Russell Crowe) who learns to deal with his paranoid schizophrenia. The story shows how he learns to distinguish between what is real and the 3 personalities that exist only in his mind.

At the end of the film Nash is asked if he still sees these imaginary people and he says yes. The only difference now is he chooses to ignore them. He chose to focus on the present instead of his past.

So let Nash's simple yet profound choice of focus inspire you. Get motivated to know you can overcome any boulder despite how overwhelming or debilitating it seems. You just need to feed your mind with healthy information that is already all around you.

Take time to listen to what your body and mind needs. Recognize the crucial importance of making the healthiest choices you can right now!

FOR MORE ON THE FOLLOWING SEE THEIR WEBSITES:
• Louisa Jewell, Why Did You Go: www.whydidyougo.com
• Eleanor Chin, Clarity Partners: www.claritypartnerscoaching.com
• Marie-Josee Salvas Shaar, Smarts & Stamina: www.smartsandstamina.com
• Steph Miller, Live Lighter: www.livelighter.org

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#321: What Do You Want? – The Devil Wears Prada

Based on a Gallup poll the No. 1 reason people quite their jobs is because of a bad boss. It takes courage to leave a job you are not enjoying. And yet the only spark needed to ignite action is to really know what you want.

In the previous blog article (see tip#320) I wrote about the thought-provoking messages of the movie Up In The Air. George Clooney's character, Ryan, was a mirror for me in that he showed me what I DIDN'T want in my career. His whole existence was about flying constantly alone all over the US and not cultivating any meaningful relationships.

What the movie helped me see is that I want to share the adventure of my business and career with others. What I want is to enjoy my job with people I enjoy working with. Life is too short to waste flying solo AND on negative individuals or energy stealers.

The Devil Wears Prada 2006

The movie The Devil Wears Prada can help show you what you want and don't want in a career or job. Andrea (Anne Hathaway) is an aspiring journalist fresh out of university who lands a coveted position as a junior personal assistant to the editor-in-chief of a famous fashion magazine.

The challenge is that her boss, Miranda Priestly, (Meryl Streep) is a boss from hell! She is demanding, rude, controlling and condescending. However, Andrea puts up with relentless abuse because she believes the position is a stepping stone for her real passion of journalism.

Over time Andrea begins to let the fashion world transform her into something not aligned with her true self. And though she excels at her job she finally chooses to abruptly leave Miranda during an important fashion event when she realizes what she wants. And what she wants is NOT to become like her boss.

See the Benefits

So see the benefits of negative people around you. They can help you identify what you DON'T WANT in a job or career. Let them help you realize what you DO WANT. That is the benefit of movies with antagonistic characters or villains. They are there to help mirror the path you can choose NOT to travel on.

Ultimately it is your job to emulate the positive role models that demonstrate the future you desire. Celebrate all your favourite cinematic role models and real-life heroes around the world. They knew what they wanted and took action to get it. If they can do it so can you!

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#320: What Truly Matters To You? - Up In The Air

Sometimes it takes unexpected change or crisis to help you see what truly matters in your career or life. That can be a crucial step for making the changes you've been wishing for all along.

I've just had an incredible first week of 2010! Each day I received clues and signs reminding me to focus this year on my passion for writing this movie blog. One of these signs was simply a deep knowing that I truly loved writing about movies that are making a positive difference with readers like you.

There are people in the world who have chosen to let go of their passions and dreams in order to get jobs that provide the income they desire. And then there are people, like me, who have chosen to leave a comfortable job and follow my passion for movies and motivating others. It takes a lot of courage for the latter and yet I believe every person is meant to somehow integrate their passions into their career.

That's why there is a silver lining to when professionals are unexpectedly let go from their jobs. It doesn't matter what the reason was for the termination, what matters is the golden opportunity to find a position you are passionate about.

Up In The Air 2009

The movie Up In The Air is filled with characters and situations that can mirror your current career choices. It will make you think about what truly matters to you. The story revolves around Ryan Bingham (George Clooney), a corporate downsizing expert and motivational speaker whose job is to let go of employees in businesses across the United States.

There is one key scene where he is terminating an employee who becomes angry about how to care for his two daughters when he is jobless. Ryan surprises the employee by telling him he can now follow his dream for French cooking. Ryan had identified from the man's resume that he once had a passion for cooking and helps him see the silver lining of being let go. You see on the man's face that he had a profound shift in his thoughts.

So let movies you connect with be a mirror to help you see what truly matters to you. Let the movie characters you identify with show you what you want AND don't want in your career. You always have a choice in whatever occupation you desire. Just make sure it is filled with passion!

OTHER CAREER TRANSITION TIPS:
Tip#61: When Life Gives You Lemons Make Lemonade - Baby Boom
Tip#122: The Bright Side of Career Transitions - 9 Movie Tips
Tip#297: Are You Waiting or Activating? - The Terminal

KEYNOTES & SEMINARS
FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION...
"THE BRIGHT SIDE OF CAREER TRANSITIONS"
See more info under "Keynotes & Seminars: Here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#319: Find Your Gumption! – The Holiday

Gumption is defined as demonstrating initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness; courage; spunk; guts. If you are looking for more gumption in your career or life then a holiday or a movie hero is what you need for inspiration!

The recent holiday season allowed me to break out of my work mindset and focus on family traditions and enjoy Christmas with friends, great food and energizing conversations. It also allowed me to redefine what I wanted in the New Year.

I had personal and professional goals that I wanted to achieve and knew that to have them come true I needed to begin with activating my positive energy and attitude. And one movie I discovered over the holidays inspired me with a movie heroine who finds her gumption!

The Holiday 2006

The romantic comedy, The Holiday, is definitely for movie lovers because it features characters such as a movie trailer producer, Amanda (Cameron Diaz), a film soundtrack composer, Miles (Jack Black) and a screenplay writer, Arthur (Eli Wallach). So there are many well-known movie references scattered throughout the film.

Iris (Kate Winslet) benefits from all these characters as she escapes heartbreak by trading her home in England with one in L.A. for Christmas time. There she meets Miles who helps re-energize Iris with his love for movie music. And then she meets Arthur who recommends many DVD movies for Iris to watch.

What she later realizes is Arthur was recommending movies with strong female characters. These movie heroines empower Iris because she is able to identify these women as having gumption. She soon makes a personal breakthrough and finally stands her ground and takes action for the life and relationships she truly desires.

"I think what I've got is something slightly resembling gumption."

Watch Your Favourite Movie Heroes

So if you have goals you want to achieve start with empowering your inner energy and attitude. Find your gumption! Take a holiday if you feel that's what it takes to clear your mind. Or watch your favourite movies and become aware of the attitude and strengths of the movie heroes that excite you.

Making positive changes in your career or life means breaking out of your daily routines and habits. Let the power of movies take you to the reality you desire!

Arthur: "Iris, in the movies we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason you are behaving like the best friend."

Iris: "You're so right. You're supposed to be the leading lady of your own life, for god's sake! Arthur, I've been going to a therapist for three years, and she's never explained things to me that well. That was brilliant. Brutal, but brilliant."

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#318: See Your Clues & Signs for Success – Sherlock Holmes

An amazing thing happened the day I posted my previous blog article about making wishes (see: tip#317). In it I wrote about Laura Day's book The Circle and it's inspiring methods for manifesting your desires. Within hours of posting the article I received a comment from this bestselling author thanking me for writing about her!

This response made my day and I saw it as a sign that 2010 was going to be absolutely fantastic! Being contacted by a well-known author like Laura Day for just sharing my passion and personal stories was just another encouraging clue that I will achieve my wishes and goals this year.

The Empty Cup Sign

Another startling clue came at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve. I was at a house party dancing in the living room when I suddenly heard people doing the 10 second count down to the new year. Usually I am ready with a glass of champagne for the toast but this time I was holding an empty glass.

I ended up toasting everyone with my empty glass and focused on just celebrating with others who had champagne. Two days later I had an epiphany that it was a special clue and reminder of a Chinese proverb that an empty cup symbolized an open space for knowledge and abundance to pour in. I saw it as a sign that I was ready for my wishes to pour into my life in this brand new year.

Sherlock Holmes 2009

The skills of observing clues and signs permeate the re-imagined movie Sherlock Holmes with Robert Downey Jr. as the world-famous detective. Throughout the story Holmes demonstrates a keen sense of identifying all the tiniest of details of every person and place he encounters.

By observing what is simply in front of him he can analyze and strategize answers and solutions to his current challenges. Holmes has developed the skills to manifest solutions at lightening speed.

Everyone has the ability to discover answers for overcoming the problems and challenges they face. You just need to stay open to the moment and observe the clues and signs right in front of you. Just maintain a positive attitude and an optimistic mindset. And remember that synchronicity is always in action sending you helpful messages, people and opportunities.

So keep your eyes and ears open for signs and clues coming your way that will solve your current challenges. Be an empty cup so you can be filled with answers you are seeking.

This is a brand new year so why not have brand new thoughts for manifesting your wishes and success. Every clue is already right in front of you!

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
Social Media Consultant
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Tip#317: What’s Your New Year’s Wish? - Shorts

Looking over 2009 I feel so excited and grateful that many of my wishes had come true. Some actually felt like miracles because I was able to overcome seemingly impossible business challenges through helpful events or people that magically appeared.

This blog has been documenting many of these amazing situations for over 3 years. It's about being open to synchronicity and the law of attraction that can be harnessed to manifest the realities that you want. My goal has always been to inspire you the reader in deliberately creating the life or career you desire.

During one of many holiday gatherings I was introduced to The Circle concept written by bestselling author Laura Day. It is similar to other law of attraction teachings wherein you draw a circle and write down your wish in the centre. On the outside you write all your obstacles to that wish. The idea is to FOCUS on the inner circle and feel good feelings of your wish as if you already have it in your life. See a short video of Laura Day talking about The Circle: See video

Shorts 2009

The family movie Shorts tells a fun story about what happens when kids in one neighbourhood find a magic wishing rock. The concept brings up the excitement of what you would do if you had your own wishing rock. Some of the wishes the kids ask for include: unlimited chocolate bars, crocodile armies, rocket bikes and inventions that work.

This childlike wonder and imagination are key to making your own wishes come true in the adult world. When you're a kid anything is possible and that mindset is important to keep alive throughout your life. Miracles happen because you make them happen.

Bedtime Stories 2008

A year ago at this holiday time I saw another movie about wishes coming true called Bedtime Stories starring Adam Sandler. The story is about Skeeter, a hotel handyman, who tells bedtime stories to his niece and nephew. And whenever these kids finish off his stories they come true the next day. Skeeter later realizes that he can make his own wishes come true.

Though these movies are designed for children they have powerful messages that we ALL can create the lives and situations we dream about. These movies are reminders that our imaginations are powerful and all we have to do is believe that magic is real and anything can happen in real life.

So activate your imagination and make a wish for the new year of 2010. Believe that magic is real and wishes can come true. Picture the wish you have in your mind and then FEEL the feel good feelings of having it right now!

My wish right now is for your wishes to come true in 2010. Have a happy and exciting new year!

And please let me know what your new year's wish is. I'd love to hear from you.

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#316: Stay Positive Even In The Rain – Julie & Julia

I just had the most surrealistic Christmas Day ever. It started in the afternoon of Dec. 24th when I answered a Twitter message that went out from a news reporter at CityTV, a major TV network here in Toronto. She was looking for a movie blogger in town who wanted to talk movies at 5:30pm Christmas Day at their TV studios.

As a movie blogger I thought I was perfect for this and actually had been dreaming about talking about movies that motivate on TV. Though, in this case, it would mean leaving a family Christmas dinner to do this. So I sent a twitter message back with a link to my blog saying I was interested. She responded asking if I'd be interested in talking about movies opening on Christmas day like Sherlock Holmes, Nine, etc.

I answered yes and asked what do I do next. Now this was Christmas Eve and by 4:45pm Christmas day still received no response. So I took the initiative and went down to the TV studios in the pouring rain. If this was a challenge from the universe asking me how badly I wanted this dream then I was going to take it!

I arrived around 5:05pm and was shocked to find the TV studio building locked with no one inside. In fact there were no signs of life anywhere that I could see through any of the windows of any of the floors. Despite this unexpected situation I felt no anger that I had traveled through the cold rain on Christmas day when I could have stayed warm surrounded by family.

This was a dream opportunity and it was worth taking a risk because movies were my passion and someone wanted what value I had to share.

Julie & Julia 2009

There was a key scene that mirrored my experience from the movie Julie & Julia based on 2 true stories of famed chef Julia Child and Julie Powell who wrote a blog about her passion for food and Julia Child.

There is a scene when Julie (Amy Adams) gets a call from a writer who wants to bring the editor responsible for getting Julia Child published to dinner with Julie. This was a big step for Julie in making her dream come true of getting closer to Julia Child.

Julie takes great initiative to make this evening the best evening possible. Unfortunately the weather turns into pouring rain and the writer calls to cancel. Julie is crushed. But eventually she picks herself back up and continues to push forward with her passion. She remained optimistic and eventually the New York Times called and her blog became a bestselling book and a big Hollywood movie.

Focus on the Positives

Remaining optimistic is how I felt about what happened to me on Christmas Day. I chose to focus on the positives that now someone at a major TV station knows about my blog and my passion for discussing movies. Despite being left out in the rain I celebrated this as a little Christmas gift.

So if something you wanted arrives and suddenly gets taken away from you do your best to focus on the positives. Do your best not to dwell on the negatives that's right in front of you. Look beyond it. Stay optimistic and you will automatically keep yourself open to other opportunities right around the corner!

"What you focus on expands."
Napoleon Hill

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#315: You Are Never Alone at Christmas – Noel movie

Christmas time can be a very different experience for each person. Past events shape how you perceive this holiday time that can test your faith and courage.

I recently attended an uplifting Christmas concert with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Mississauga Choral Society and the famed Canadian Brass. The live, grand renditions of Deck the Halls, We Three Kings and White Christmas filled my heart and soul with a wonderful warm glow!

And I remembered the Canadian Brass years ago from my childhood when they visited my public school to play for us. Hearing them play again comforted my heart since I had been thinking about my dad who had passed away just before Christmas several years ago (see tip#313 for more).

Noel 2004

The movie Noel is a unique Christmas movie I recently discovered that mirrors what it is like to feel alone this time of year. I was surprised I had never heard of this hidden gem with a star-studded cast that included Susan Sarandon, Penelope Cruz, Robin Williams, Paul Walker and Alan Arkin. This film is all about characters that experience Christmas in unique and very personal ways.

Sarandon's character is single learning to deal with Christmas time alone while caring for a hospitalized mother. Cruz's character separates from her fiancé on Christmas eve. And her fiancé, played by Walker, has a strange and profound encounter with Arkin's character that would result in a life-changing experience.

In the end they each find someone that helps them keep moving forward and believe that the pain they feel will pass.

Have Faith and Courage

So if you are one of those individuals where Christmas is not all warm and filled with family and friends know that you are not alone. There is at least one person somewhere that cares about you. Have faith and courage that you are never alone at Christmas.

Listen to holiday music that has always made you feel good. Let the rhythm and melodies re-energize your heart and soul. That music is there to remind you that whatever hurt you are feeling will pass. And always remember, you are never alone.

I'm wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays wherever you are reading this and hope you find much happiness during this holiday time. See my special holiday greeting: Here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#314: Step Outside Your World For Awhile - Avatar

The solutions you seek for your career or life challenges are sometimes right in front of you. You just have to step outside your own world in order to see them.

I am having the most amazing month! Business wise this has been the busiest December in many, many years and I believe it's because of all the personal and professional development I’ve doing on expanding my optimistic mindset. It feels amazing!

And it's because I decided years ago to step outside my own world in order to learn brand new ways of thinking. Taking this path involves a lot of faith, trust and courage because the only way to break out of old, ineffective ways of thinking is to step out of your comfort zone.

Avatar 2009

The 3-D movie Avatar is an astonishing world that can inspire you step outside of your comfort zone. It is one of the most incredible cinematic experiences I have ever had because I felt fully immersed on an alien planet for almost 3 hours!

Thanks to famed director James Cameron, he has created a world so realistic that you will forget that it is mostly computer generated images. The creatures and plant life are so rich in imagination, texture and colours. And the 10 foot tall, blue alien race characters are stunning to watch.

The story takes place in the future where Jake (Sam Worthington) can have his mind placed into an "avatar" or another host body resembling the alien race called the Na'vi. His mission is to gain information on how the military and corporation he works for can mine precious materials from under where the Na'vi live.

What Jake ends up discovering is a deeper appreciation of how others live and think. He discovers the sacred beauty the Na'vi see in all living things and how they are all connected. By stepping into this alien world Jake expanded his mind and heart and ultimately his own humanity.

New Possibilities

The movie hero literally stepped out of his comfort zone and in doing so realized a whole new way of thinking beyond his old life. And that is the magic of movies, they can open your thoughts to new ideas and visions. Movies help you step outside your existing world and imagine new possibilities and opportunities.

Changing old habits of thinking does take time. Though if you have faith, trust and courage you will be rewarded with exciting new solutions to your challenges and problems.

Take a step into a new experience today. If it feels uncomfortable that is a good sign. You are on your way to the answers you seek!

ATTENTION ENTREPRENEURS & BUSINESS OWNERS!
GET GREAT MARKETING-PROMOTIONAL IDEAS FOR AN EXCITING NEW YEAR:
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See more info under "Consultations" here: Motivatorman.com

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#313: Believe In Magic During The Holidays - The Shiny Dimes - The Family Stone

A magical thing happened to me recently. This past Sunday, I was compelled to go to a nearby Starbucks early in the morning around 7:15am. No one was there and I went straight to the counter where something shiny caught my eye on the floor. It was a shiny dime.

I have written before in tip#145 that whenever I find a shiny dime that I feel it is a message my dad is still with me. He had passed away without warning back in December of 2000. I felt a flush rush over me and somehow knew that the latest shiny dime was an extra powerful message from my father.

I didn't fully realize the significance of the message until that night when I remembered the very next day was the anniversary of my dad's passing. I cried at the epiphany. I felt he was telling me that he is still very much here warming me with his love.

That next day I was compelled to change all my online photos of myself on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and all my promotional materials and website: See here

People have been telling me that I look more and more like my father as I grow older and I admit that my new photos do show this. So I believe the shiny dime was a special Christmas message for me to show my new photo to the world and that my dad was around in more ways than one.

The Family Stone 2005

The movie, The Family Stone, is a special film for me because it represents the magical things that can happen at Christmas despite profound sadness. The film is about a family's memorable Christmas gathering and the universal issues and comedies that occur in many families when they get together for the holidays.

Relationships are tested among the family as well as the woman (Sarah Jessica Parker) one son (Dermot Mulroney) brings home as his fiancé. The story is also about how a family deals with an unexpected terminal illness of a loved one in the mother (Diane Keaton). For that aspect this is a special movie for those, like myself, who have lost someone close during the Christmas holiday.

"I'd hate to see you not find what you really want."

In the end this film celebrates unexpected holiday magic. It's about believing that anything can happen and that miracles do exist especially in loving relationships. And if this is a special time of year for you then you can also rekindle the positive memories of Christmases past to energize your spirit.

Believe in holiday magic. And if you receive magical signs, like shiny dimes, it could be a message that the loved ones you've lost are still with you and loving you.

Synchronicity Note:
The date of the shiny dime I recently found was 2005. That is the same year The Family Stone movie came out and when I first saw it in a theatre with my mom at Christmas!

Related Tips:
Tip#145: Believe in the Impossible - Ghost
Tip#313: Believe In Magic During The Holidays - The Family Stone
Tip#638: Praying, Faith & Indestructible Optimism - Unconditional
Tip#665: Your Greatness, Purpose & Focus – Man of Steel
Tip#740: The Timeless Love of a Dad, Dog & Son - Mr. Peabody & Sherman


Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#312: Enjoy the Little Things - Zombieland

Do you want a sure-fire method of re-energizing your mind? Then remember to enjoy the little things in life. They can lift your spirits in a heartbeat!

I loved Pillsbury chocolate chip cookies growing up. And though I have had many different kinds of delicious chocolate chip cookies over the years nothing can match the FEEL GOOD energy I remember from the aroma and taste of Pillsbury cookies!

So after many years I recently treated myself to these fabulous cookies and they were as delicious and blissful as I remembered as a kid. So hot, chewy and crispy all at the same time. My mind and spirit lifted into the stratosphere with the re-igniting of these nostalgic memories. Check out this Pillsbury commercial from the 80's starring a very young Drew Barrymore: See

It is empowering when you are mindful of the things you loved or loved doing growing up. These are incredible resources always at hand to energize you whenever you are feeling down or overwhelmed with life.

Zombieland 2009

The movie Zombieland is an over-the-top gore-filled comedy about a young man who shares his rules for surviving a world infested with zombies. One of those rules is "Rule #32 - Enjoy the little things". And despite the unusual type of movie presenting this idea it is still a universal truth for anyone.

Throughout the story a fellow survivor named Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) is on a perpetual search for Hostess Twinkies. Why? He simply loves Twinkies! And even though he is chased by zombies in a world gone mad, Tallahassee remains grounded with the thought of a little thing he loved.

Your Positive Emotional Energy

So remember to enjoy the little things in life because they are a powerful source of energy. Positive emotional energy that flows through you can lead to a productive workday or the catalyst to help you focus on whatever you need to achieve.

Tap into the FEEL GOOD memories of childhood treats. Remember old hobbies and things you use to collect that still excite you. There is something in your past that will activate your positive energy right now!

Other recommended blog articles:

Tip#8: Celebrate The Little Things Like 'Elf'
Tip#164: Increase Your Positive Emotional Energy - Kung Fu Panda
Tip#248: 7 Positive Emotions That Energize – Stranger Than Fiction

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009

Tip#311: Be Open to Magical Messages, Part 1 - Serendipity movie

Sometimes when you are feeling lost in your work, career or life magical messages of encouragement will appear when you need it most. All you have to do is see or hear what’s right in front of you.

During the current business challenges I'd been writing in my previous blog tips (tip#308 and tip#309) my faith and belief were being tested. I felt stuck with the obstacles I was facing. As always there were movies I discovered to help motivate me. There were also 3 magical messages of encouragement.

Magical Message #1

I recently had an amazing week giving several social media talks here in Toronto. At one presentation an attending friend and colleague gave me a gift she said she was compelled to purchase and give me. She gave me this beautiful silver heart-shaped Christmas ornament with the word BELIEVE written on it.

Magical Message #2

During another presentation I was talking about how fast you can connect with people on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. An attendee shared something that amazed the audience and myself. She had been tweeting on her smart phone about my seminar. and soon after she announced that someone I knew from high school responded to her twitter message saying, "Emmanuel was one of the people that taught me how to draw and airbrush at Canada’s Wonderland!!!"

The attendee's name who shared this message was FAITH!

Magical Message #3

Finally, during that same week a university student had contacted me wanting to interview me about my success stories with Twitter. I later asked him how he found my name. He said he did a search online with the keywords "Toronto media expert". My expertise in social media was already in search engines online. I was excited!

To me these were all empowering messages encouraging me to BELIEVE and have FAITH that everything will work out. I also felt strongly that the universe was reminding me that I am an expert in the field of social media and networking even when I have my doubts.

Serendipity 2001

The movie Serendipity celebrates magical signs and having the faith to follow them. Serendipity is defined by Kate Beckinsale’s character Sara as "a fortunate accident". She and Jonathan (John Cusack) meet one special night at Christmas time and then lose touch of each other for many years.

But then fortunate accidents and magical messages kept reminding them of each other. The universe was encouraging them of their destiny to come together as soul mates. They eventually chose to believe that the coincidences they experienced had a greater meaning they must follow. The results end up a very happy reunion for them both!

So if you are feeling lost in your work, career or life remember that magical signs, clues, serendipities, synchronicities and messages are always being sent to guide you through. Use your intuition to FEEL the messages in the signs you see and hear. BELIEVE that you will get through your challenges. And have FAITH that everything will work out in the end.

"You don't have to understand. You just have to have faith."
Serendipity (2001)

Related Tips:
Tip#311: Be Open to Magical Messages, Part 1 - Serendipity movie 
Tip#837: Be Open to Magical Messages, Part 2 – Song of the Sea

ATTENTION ENTREPRENEURS & BUSINESS OWNERS!
GET SET-UP ONLINE FOR AN EXCITING NEW YEAR:
Social Media & Social Networking Consulting
With Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman for
LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & Blogging

More info under “Consultations” here: Motivatorman.com

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist For Professionals
www.motivatorman.com
© Emmanuel Lopez 2009