Tip#491: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 2 – 4 Movie Tips

Over the past few months and even at this moment I know of several close friends going through drastic life changes. It's as if they've entered a phase in their life and career where they are being forced to purge either their homes, relationships, jobs or all the above. Sound familiar? This has been my path for over a year now and thankfully my life has changed for the better (See tip#400).

These friends have reached out to me and I am more than happy to provide the movie tips and tools that helped me persevere and stay optimistic. It always comes down to transforming one's mindset. I'll repeat the Einstein quote from 2 previous blog posts because repetition is part of the transformation: "We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them."

Here are 4 movie recommendations:

The Beaver 2011

A deeply troubled husband, father and executive (Mel Gibson) adopts a beaver hand-puppet as a means of breaking out of his destructive and debilitating mindset. This radical concept is a mirror for how radical your ways of thinking must change in order for you to break free. Here is an inspiring quote from the film: "We reach a point where, in order to go on, we have to wipe the slate clean."

Groundhog Day 1993

A self-centered weatherman (Bill Murray) finds himself trapped living the same day over and over again. After trying countless ways and methods to break out he finally surrenders to his situation. Over time he learns to change his thoughts and attitudes. Changing himself inwardly eventually freed him in his external world.

Peaceful Warrior 2006

A university student (Scott Mechlowicz) who dreams of winning a National Gymnastics competition encounters an enigmatic and wise gas station attendant (Nick Nolte). For many months the attendant teaches a multitude of lessons designed to purge the student's thoughts and attitudes in order to achieve his goals.

The Ultimate Gift 2006

When a wealthy tycoon (James Garner) dies he leaves his spoiled and reckless grandson (Drew Fuller) 12 video taped assignments to teach him 12 gifts in life. In order to receive his inheritance the grandson begins by having all his belongings and home taken away. One by one he discovers the life lessons that take him to new levels of happiness.

If you are finding you’ve tried everything like self-help books, workshops, therapy, etc. and still feel stuck then it may be time to let go of everything you THINK you know. If the world around you is being stripped then see it as a sign that your ways of thinking need to be stripped too.

All you have to do is say YES to the path you are being guided down. Find the courage to begin your inner purge and supportive people AND inspiring movie heroes will be right by your side!

Related Tips:
Tip#490: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 1 - Rise of the Planet of the Apes 
Tip#491: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 2 – 4 Movie Tips
Tip#495: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 3 – 4 More Movie Tips 
Tip#514: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 4 – The Artist 

ANNOUNCEMENT:
I am the new Film Writer for Parvati Magazine online! Read selections from my Movies that Motivate blog with this month featuring "Morning Glory":
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#490: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 1 - Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Since the intense personal and professional challenges I experienced this summer (see tip#481) I felt I was backed up against a wall to finally face things about myself I didn’t want to acknowledge. But once I surrendered to the fact that my way of thinking needed to change I began to discover solutions.

One of those solutions was to let go of what I THINK I know. As I wrote in tip#482 Einstein said it best: "We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them." For example I am a big fan of the original Planet of the Apes movie (1968) and didn’t think the new reboot would be any good. I thought this because I read a few negative reviews from film critics that were "purists" and didn't give the direction of the new film a chance.

So when a sibling, who was passionate about the original Ape movies, told me the new film was "soooo good!" it shook up my thought patterns. It shook up what I thought I knew to be true and decided to see the movie. I ended up loving the re-imagined story of something I loved growing up!

Rise of the Planet of the Apes 2011

The film Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a reboot of the Planet of the Apes series. It is about scientist Will Rodman (James Franco) trying to create a cure for Alzheimer's disease and testing the genetically engineered formula on chimpanzees. The end result comes in the form of a baby chimp who Rodman and his father (John Lithgow) raises and names Caesar (Andy Serkis).

Over the years the formula increases Caesar's brain activity and quickly develops high functioning intelligence. The performance capture technology for Caesar is amazing and the movie was thoroughly entertaining. I am now looking forward to sequels. I feel grateful I kept an open mind about my first impressions of this film. That is attributed to the silver lining from the challenges I faced recently. I am letting go of what I THINK I KNOW in order to let exciting solutions and experiences flow into my life!

If you find yourself stuck and spinning your wheels in life it may be time to surrender and discover new ways of thinking. Find the courage to let go of what you THINK you know and exciting solutions will rush to you!

Related Tips:
Tip#490: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 1 - Rise of the Planet of the Apes 
Tip#491: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 2 – 4 Movie Tips
Tip#495: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 3 – 4 More Movie Tips 
Tip#514: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 4 – The Artist 

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#489: Be The Real You - Bridesmaids

I am still recovering from a whirlwind week of being around so many people. When I returned from my Detroit adventure (see tip#488) I attended a Toronto Film Festival party hosted by actor/musician Bokeem Woodbine. He was in town filming the remake of Total Recall with Colin Farrell and Jessica Biel. Bokeem was a super nice guy and so down-to-earth and real.

And though I was exhausted, over the weekend I checked out the Toronto Ukrainian Festival and Polish Festival. Yes I ate many Polish sausages! I even got to ride the new, spacious TTC subway where, from inside, you can see all the way down the train. It was very surreal seeing all these people down a seemingly infinite tunnel!

I also launched my new, updated video intro to my motivational services. It's been getting some enthusiastic responses especially for a photo of me as a child doing a silly headstand. I was a silly, playful child growing up and wanted to share that with the world! That's the real me! See: video

Bridesmaids 2011

The comedy Bridesmaids is about Annie (Kristen Wiig) a single woman in her mid 30s dealing with the challenges of being a maid of honor for her best friend Lillian (Maya Rudolph). What unfolds is a series of crazy, hilarious explosions of jealousy and public catastrophes. Brace yourself when you see what happens at the wedding dress boutique!

The film is filled with raunchy dialogue and outrageous characters like future sister-in-law Megan (Melissa McCarthy). Every time she opens her mouth she says something utterly shocking! She was just being herself. At the same time there are many heartfelt moments that reflect the realities of changing relationships and the need to make positive change in yourself.

We all have our quirks and foibles. And when we embrace our uniqueness it makes us confident to be ourselves. It makes us memorable. So put your ego and fears aside and do your best to be yourself wherever you go. Be inspired by the crazy characters you meet as well as the down-to-earth people you encounter. Just be the real you!

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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#488: The Positive Concept of Viral - Contagion

Viral (adjective) refers to an object or pattern that is able to induce agents to replicate it, resulting in many copies being produced and spread around

The internet has introduced the positive concept of "viral" when used in spreading information, news and marketing quickly around the world. I mentioned my Passion video on YouTube last week on my blog (see tip#486) as having had over 160,000 views. The video is so viral that it has already had over 2,000 views within the week. See: video

This has been an amazing week of experiences. I helped a friend (Karen Beach of Ptah Design Inc.) who is a custom apparel designer for corporations at the Chrysler Diversity Trade Show in Detroit where she unveiled prototypes of a new lighting technology stitched within clothes. It excited so many people that I got to witness how viral it became when they told other colleagues to come and see these prototypes throughout the day.

Contagion (2011)

The movie Contagion follows the rapid progress of a deadly virus that kills within days. You see how Beth Emhoff (Gwyneth Paltrow) and other individuals pass on the virus by whoever they encounter or the surfaces they touch. It also parallels the viral use of the internet through online journalist Alan Krumwiede (Jude Law). He posts video blogs claiming he recovered from his sickness using a cure called Forsythia and builds millions of supporters quickly.
See: movie trailer
Watch now: Amazon Prime Video

This is a disturbing film and yet very riveting and educational on the concept of viral. It shows how fear and positive attitudes become viral. It will also make you more conscious of the people and surfaces you touch on a daily basis. And the movie itself will become a viral agent for educating audiences on its messages of self-care, pandemics and the power of the internet.

We are living in an exciting new world where ideas can spread quickly and globally via people and the internet. Embrace the positive concept of viral and hopefully you can use it for good intentions. The power of WORD OF MOUTH has evolved to the power of WORD OF MOUSE!



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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#487: Amazing True Stories Part 2 - Mao’s Last Dancer

It's another sunny day and the 36th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is underway here in Toronto. I'm reminded of acclaimed movies that have premiered here like Slumdog Millionaire, American Beauty, Black Swan and Chariots of Fire. Recently I was recommended to see a film that premiered in 2009 and it inspired me on so many levels. It's power came from being an amazing true story.

Mao's Last Dancer 2009

The movie Mao's Last Dancer is based on the autobiography of ballet dancer Li Cunxin (Chi Cao). At 11 years old Li was sent from his rural village commune to Beijing for ballet training. Despite his weak physique he finds a supportive teacher named Chan (Su Zhang) who helps him transform his mindset and build his strength.

Teacher Chan tells Li the story of a man who wanted to be an archer but wasn't strong enough. He was determined so everyday he carried heavy logs for a year. One day his master handed him the heaviest, most powerful bow and when he pulled the bowstring it felt as light as a feather!

Li learned from this story and strapped weights to his ankles while he trained. Eventually he was able to build his body strength and fly gracefully through the air. That resulted in being discovered by American ballet director Ben Stevenson (Bruce Greenwood) leading to success and acclaim in the US and then around the world. See: movie trailer

Seek Out Inspiring Stories

This film captures the magic of the movies shown at TIFF. It also inspired me for the strength, perseverance and courage the main character had to endure years of hardship. It was also inspiring to learn Li became a motivational speaker. See his website: click here

If you are finding yourself struggling with challenges in your life, work or career seek out true stories of real-life heroes that persevered through their challenges. And seek out movie heroes based on amazing true stories and they will help show you that anything you want to achieve is possible!

See blog post for Tip#448: Amazing True Stories Part 1 - Secretariat

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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#486: The Magic & Power of YouTube - 9/11 10 Year Anniversary – Brad & Angelina at TIFF – Back to the Future Nikes – Life in a Day

Today is the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, the day the twin towers fell in New York City and thousands of innocent people lost their lives. I've been spending time on YouTube watching stunning video of that tragic day. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is also underway here in Toronto and I found great videos from stargazers and movie trailers of films premiering here. YouTube is so amazing because I even found videos promoting the new Nike shoes based on the futuristic "auto-lacing" shoes Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future Part 2!

• See mesmerizing 9/11 compilation of the plane crashing into the south tower from multiple angles: See video

• Great footage of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie being very generous with fans at TIFF. See video

• There are 2 movie trailers for new 3-D animated movie called A Monster in Paris (Belgium) premiering at TIFF. See: English
See: French (original version)

• 2 Nike promos for their Nike MAG shoes from the film Back To The Future. Second one features Christopher Lloyd as Doc! See: 1st promo
See: 2nd promo

Life in a Day 2011

The documentary Life in a Day is video footage of a single day on Earth. It was created using 80,000 submissions from people all over the world via YouTube. You see how diverse people are in what kind of breakfast they enjoy and you learn what people fear and love. There is breathtaking scenery and moving moments of people being human. This film shows how beautiful and precious the human spirit is and will get you to reflect on your own life. See trailer

Today on September 11th it's been a time of reflection for me. Through the magic of YouTube I've remembered the fun and nostalgia of the Back to the Future movies. I've been able to see a stargazer's video that made me feel part of the excitement of seeing movie stars. And I've seen videos uploaded by countless individuals who captured the tragic events of 9/11.

All these videos have documented history forever online. YouTube is one online resource I will forever be grateful for because of its power and magic. Even my own short video clip about passion has over 160,000 views which astounds me (see here). Whatever you are doing on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I hope it is time of reflection. I wish you all the best in wherever you are in your life and hope you celebrate all your blessings.

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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#485: Inspiring Movies About Authors Part 2 – Miss Potter

Do you have a dream to publish a book but feel blocked? I've felt that for years and am now discovering solutions through the magic of social media. As mentioned in previous tip#484, I sent out messages to authors I am connected with on Facebook to ask advice on identifying and overcoming my blocks and fears. I received immediate responses within hours! Here are some highlights...

"Go for it, Emmanuel. You never know what fantastic thing will come of it once your book is out. More than money."
Paul Kyriazi, Author
How To Live the James Bond Lifestyle

"There is a book that's been around awhile that might help you to focus your attention on understanding what you fear.... it's called Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway... no one else on the planet can express what you express in exactly the same way as you. Let your brilliance flow..."
Ruth Garrett, Author
Resilience: are you a carrot, an egg or coffee beans

"YES... acknowledge the fear... AND... do it anyway! Some people will love it some people won't care... there may even be a few who don't like it... SO WHAT! Screw the ones who don't support you.... or use them as motivation. There are so many people who can be supported and uplifted by your work!"
Barry Spilchuk, Co-author
A Cup of Chicken Soup for the Soul

I felt so empowered receiving these messages of encouragement. I also found it extremely synchronistic that two of these authors suggested that I "feel the fear and do it anyway!" I hope these words of wisdom inspire you in whatever dream you want to achieve.

Miss Potter 2006

The movie Miss Potter is a magical biopic about children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter (Renee Zellweger) creator of the Peter Rabbit books. The story shows the close relationship she formed with her publisher Norman Warne (Ewan McGregor) and the challenges she faced with an unsupportive and difficult mother (Barbara Flynn).

Potter also demonstrated a strong leadership mindset especially for her times in the early 1900's. She was strong willed, assertive and resilient as a single woman in her 30’s. Potter was also an optimistic visionary whose books ended up delighting both children and adults. She simply followed her passion and imagination on an amazing life experience. See movie trailer

So Timely

It was so timely and magical that I was led to seeing this film recently and it affected me deeply. It was close to my heart because I too am an illustrator and writer with several unpublished children's stories I've created (see example). In Miss Potter I recognized a new cinematic role model that exuded great strengths I KNOW I will find within me.

If you are stuck on your road towards your dreams do your best to find your own cinematic role models. Let them help mirror your own hidden strengths as well as remind you of good people around that support your dreams. And if you feel you have a book inside you know that there are real-life authors that did whatever it took to share their stories with the world!

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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#484: Inspiring Movies About Authors Part 1 - Midnight in Paris

As I mentioned in tip#482 this summer had been another test of my faith and indestructible optimism. It was also a time of miracles. These miracles came in the form of diverse income streams that magically came to me exactly when I needed it! So now I have breathing space to follow my dream of getting a motivational book published.

At the same time I've realized that I have subconscious fears about being an author or of getting my writing published (see tip#481). This is strange to me because I've been a published illustrator since the 1980's AND a songwriter in 1999 for my Rain of Angels music CD. Whatever the deep fears are that block me I am dedicating myself to facing and overcoming them! This article begins a series of blog posts on inspiring movies about authors I am using to motivate myself.

Midnight in Paris 2011

The romantic comedy-fantasy Midnight in Paris is Woody Allen's movie about Gil (Owen Wilson) a successful Hollywood screenwriter who has a dream to finish his first novel. He is following his passion. Unfortunately Gil's dream is not supported especially by his fiancé Inez (Rachel McAdams).

While they are vacationing in Paris Gil takes a magical walk one night at midnight and is transported to the 1920's. There he meets numerous writers and artists he has admired like Ernest Hemingway (Corey Stoll), F. Scott Fitzgerald (Tom Middleston), Gertrude Stein (Kathy Bates), Pablo Picasso (Marcial Di Fonzo) and Salvador Dali (Adrien Brody). Through this amazing and surreal experience Gil is able to get encouraging feedback on his writing from Hemingway and Stein.

As usual I was synchronistically led to seeing this film at this specific time in my life. And it inspired me to seek out advice from other authors about my situation. I just sent inquiries to authors I am connected with on Facebook and will share responses. My goal is to overcome this block or fear inside me about being a published author once and for all! And I intend to enjoy the process!

If you have a dream or desire that seems blocked remember this quote from author and spiritual entrepreneur John Assaraf. In his book The Answer, Assaraf says "Habits are thousands of times stronger than Desires." If this feels true in your case then the answer is to take a journey and face subconscious beliefs and habits holding you back. Find the courage to do this now! And remember you are not alone, you can always ask someone for help.

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1) How To Press Play When You're Stuck On Pause: Re-ignite Passion & Drive
2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#483: Stay Light & Laugh – Paul – Bad Teacher

Recently I was about to cross an intersection when a man in his 80's came up and told me that the 2 secrets to life are jokes and laughing. I chuckled because I felt he was an angel reminding me of what I'm already doing to face my financial challenges. Laughter is a tried and true motivational method that balances my new daily meditations I mentioned in previous tip#482. I'm happy to say that cash flow solutions have been manifesting!

I also keep the front page of The Toronto Star from August 23, 2011 on my kitchen table because of the headline, "Optimism is better than despair." These were the last public words from Toronto politician Jack Layton who passed away unexpectedly from cancer. This powerful statement reminds me everyday to stay focused on the positives. So, of course, my spirit has guided me to see some comedies that helped me to stay light and laugh. (See tip#46: What Makes You Laugh?)

Paul 2011

The science fiction comedy Paul is about 2 British comic book nerds (Simon Pegg and Nick Frost) who take a road trip in America and come across a rude, foul-mouthed alien named Paul (Seth Rogen). Paul was hilarious and this movie also touched my inner nerd with countless references to other sci fi movies like E.T., Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Aliens.

Bad Teacher 2011

The comedy Bad Teacher is about middle school teacher Elizabeth Halsey (Cameron Diaz) who drinks, smokes pot and shows movies while she sleeps through class (I liked the movie idea!). This is one of those raunchy films that made me laugh at what Diaz was actually saying and doing on screen. Justin Timberlake also stars and was shockingly funny in certain scenes.

These and other comedies always help me to step out of despair or negative thoughts that arise from difficult times. They help me laugh and then take me to a place where I can become optimistic again. Adding daily meditation and that's where I discover solutions AND the silver linings of my challenges.

If you are facing life or financial challenges right now I recommend seeing movies that will make you laugh. Activate your funny bone and feel your laughter reboot your positive energy! Do things to make you feel lighter and you will enjoy the roller coaster ride you are currently on!

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2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#482: Activate Your Leadership Mindset - Morning Glory

"We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them."
Albert Einstein

I will always see the summer of 2011 as yet another test of maintaining my faith and indestructible optimism (see previous tip#481). The Einstein quote exemplifies how I am facing my latest financial challenges and how I've taken steps to approach my problems using different thinking. I've discovered that daily, consistent meditation has helped me unearth an inner voice revealing answers I've been seeking (see Deepak Chopra's 21 day meditation challenge).

One of these answers came in remembering my first successful business as an illustrator. I was reminded of how abundant, full and flowing my work AND bank account was. I was given a vision of a time where I earned an extremely prosperous living because of the great business team I had AND how much fun my days were. Soon after this experience I was synchronistically led to watching a movie that mirrored that same bright excitement and energy of my past successes.

Morning Glory 2010

The comedy Morning Glory is about aspiring TV news producer Becky Fuller (Rachel McAdams) who, after getting laid off unexpectedly, gets a chance to help a struggling morning show called DayBreak. Though she exhibits many quirky personality traits, Fuller demonstrates great leadership qualities such as assertiveness, perseverance, creative thinking and indestructible optimism.

When faced with difficult personalities like Mike Pomeroy (Harrison Ford), Fuller persevered with enthusiasm in helping him adapt and to create a team spirit among the morning show workers. She even showed a proactive, fighter mindset rather than a victim mentality when the network threatened to cancel her morning show. See: movie trailer

Remember Past Successes

This movie mirrored many aspects of myself that re-ignited my positive emotional energy. It had one character (Fuller) that mirrored the strengths and leadership mindset I know I already have inside me. And it had another character (Pomeroy) who reminded me that despite whatever age you are one can still make the changes necessary to adapt successfully with whatever life throws at you.

If unexpected change or crisis hits you do your best to activate your leadership mindset to persevere. One way to re-energize your positivity is to remember any of your past successes and achievements. Another is to find cinematic role models to inspire you. When you do you will recognize proof of your capabilities and re-ignite your passion, drive AND indestructible optimism in whatever challenge you face right now!

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SPEAKER TOPICS:
1) How To Press Play When You're Stuck On Pause: Re-ignite Passion & Drive
2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#481: Show Courage for Change - The Help

As I mentioned in previous blog post tip#480 this summer has been full of personal and professional changes. I've had to find the courage to do whatever necessary to make deep rooted changes in my mindset that's caused me to keep "spinning my wheels". This especially applies to my dream of getting a book published.

During much soul-searching I realized I have a block about getting a book published. I have written (and illustrated) many motivational books as far back as 1993 and am dealing with the shock and confusion as to why none have been printed and shared with the world. I even posted in tip#40 in 2007 that I was inspired to get published after seeing author Chris Gardner (The Pursuit of Happyness) at a live presentation. That book is actually written and yet I've already put it aside and moved onto another book project on leadership mentioned in tip#478.

I realize now that I have a process addiction (read more tip#243) and that my priority now is to heal and transform this mindset. It is a big part of what caused my financial collapse last year (see tip#400) and my thinking needs to change as soon as possible. Writing this now and sharing with readers of this blog is a personal step towards breaking out of my "Groundhog Day" loop I've been caught in.

Read more about addictions on Steph Miller's Live Lighter blog: Click here

The Help 2011

The movie The Help is an adaptation of Kathyrn Stockett's novel and is about a young white woman, Skeeter Phelan (Emma Stone), in the early 1960s who writes a book called "The Help". The book is based on the experiences of black maids who spent their lives caring for white children. Two maids Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis) and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer) resist the book idea at first but ultimately show great courage in sharing their stories.

The courage shown by these 3 women were inspiring in that they faced their own fears in order to create a book that would help change society's harsh treatment of black maids. The story was also inspiring in how it demonstrated the immense impact their written words had on readers both white and black. They were all great leaders of their time.

This movie has helped me look at myself and to find the courage to do whatever it takes to face my fears of publishing a book. The movie heroes are mirroring the inner strength I have within me.

Let stories inspire you to find your own courage for change. Let movie heroes mirror the inner strength you'll need to transform your life or career. You are not alone. Your movie heroes will be cheering you on!

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SPEAKER TOPICS:
1) How To Press Play When You're Stuck On Pause: Re-ignite Passion & Drive
2) Indestructible Optimism: Build a Leadership Mindset
3) Introduction to the Power of Social Media

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#480: Anything is Achievable - Miracle

This summer has been full of many personal and professional changes. This is one of those times I'm not able to openly blog about it but can at least share the films I am discovering that help me to stay positive and optimistic. Amazingly the book project I've been working on (see tip#478) has been an incredible resource for new, inspiring movies to see.

The book is on great leadership movies and I continue to receive recommendations on a daily basis from my LinkedIn group discussions I posted back in June. I was compelled to see one of those movies recently and it injected me with so much energy that I felt my indestructible optimism soar into the skies!

Miracle 2004

Based on a true story, the movie Miracle is about head coach Herb Brooks leading the United States hockey team to winning the gold medal in the 1980 Olympics. The win had an astounding affect over the nation because the Soviet team seemed unbeatable AND of the political stress of the times.

Brooks demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities that pushed his young team members to go far beyond their abilities and talents. He was assertive, strategic, extremely confident and had a strong vision from the very day he was hired to form a winning team. And although the training was rigorous every team member gave everything they had and more.

Its movies like this that helps me feel that anything is achievable even if whatever I currently see appears impossible. The Soviet team had been playing together for 15 years and yet the United States team trained together only 6 months and beat an "unbeatable" team. I was reminded that miracles can and DO happen.

Let this historic sports event remind you that miracles can happen in your life too. Remember that anything is achievable!

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER AT YOUR
ORGANIZATION, ASSOCIATION or EVENT?
SEE MY VIDEO SAMPLE of my LECTURES, KEYNOTES, SEMINARS: Click here

SEE MY SUMMER MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:
e.g. X-Men: First Class, Captain America
Click here

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

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

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#479: Deal with Unexpected Changes, Pt.1 – The Change-Up – Crazy, Stupid, Love

News of the US debt ceiling has been in the headlines all week. The fears people in the US are facing are what came to pass for me last year. After years of relying on credit to survive I faced a final debt ceiling and I was forced to make drastic changes in my work, life and home (see tip#400). Today I continue to deal with the aftermath of my financial decisions over the years. I realize more changes in my mindset are needed.

Synchronistically I had seen two comedies this week that mirrored the idea of personal change. Both featured men who faced an unexpected life crisis or unusual situation that forces them to see they need to make big personal changes. If not they would suffer even more in their current lifestyles and habits of thinking.

The Change-Up 2011

The comedy The Change-Up is about two friends, Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) and Dave (Jason Bateman) who lead very different lives. One night they magically change into each others' bodies and forced to live the other person's lifestyle. Over the course of several grueling days they each begin to see they are benefiting deeply from their individual experiences.

This is an extremely raunchy comedy and it is getting some harsh reviews. And yet it is an example of how a movie comes into my life at a specific time that triggers a meaningful insight. I know I have to make more changes in my life especially in my financial habits. I believe anyone can receive insights from movies as long as they are open to the possibilities.

Crazy, Stupid Love 2011

The romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love is about Cal Weaver (Steve Carell) suddenly faced with his wife Emily (Julianne Moore) wanting a divorce. The shock leads him to a bar where he meets Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling) who helps Cal rebuild his self-confidence and self-esteem through new clothes, new attitude and learning how to approach new women.

Both Cal and Jacob experience profound changes in their lives and in their relationships with women. Again this movie was mirroring a critical message that I had to change specific mindsets and debilitating habits in my life. This summer I've painfully realized I've been caught in my own Groundhog Day movie loop when it comes to my financial wellness. These two movies have inspired me that I will be successful in changing.

If you are facing a need to change I wish you much success. The US debt ceiling is announcing a time of great change so do your best to recognize where changes are necessary in your mindset. Remember that change can be good! You can do it!

NOTE: This August I will be blogging on Sundays only as part of changes I am implementing into my life and career. Thank you for your continued support over the years!

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 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER AT YOUR
ORGANIZATION, ASSOCIATION or EVENT?
SEE MY VIDEO SAMPLE of my LECTURES, KEYNOTES, SEMINARS: Click here

SEE MY SUMMER MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:
e.g. X-Men: First Class, Captain America
Click here

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

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

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#478: Great Teamwork Movies Part 2 – Red Cliff

I have been working on a highly enjoyable book project that is helping focus my direction as a motivational speaker AND has become another social media success story. Back on June 14, 2011 I posted a simple request for recommendations of movies that show great leadership via 3 channels: Facebook, LinkedIn and direct emails from my database. The results have been incredible.

Using social media has been an amazing team spirit experience. To date I have received over 200 movie recommendations from several LinkedIn group discussions with members from around the world! One of these film write-ups came from Kaushal C, an Independent Music Professional in the Bengaluru Area, India, Somehow his description of a movie called Red Cliff inspired me to quickly see the stunning movie trailer and then purchase the 2-disc Edition DVD right away! See: movie trailer

Red Cliff 2008

The 2 part movie called Red Cliff is a Chinese epic war film based on the Battle of Red Cliffs (208-209 AD). It demonstrates great leadership and teamwork among a number of outstanding leaders forming an alliance against a common enemy. Among these many leaders is Grand Viceroy Zhou Yu (Tony Leung), his sister Sun Shangxiang (Zhao Wei) and Chief advisor Zhuge Liang (Takeshi Kaneshiro).

This John Woo directed film shows a number of stunning battle sequences that demonstrate the creativity and strategic thinking of diverse leaders working together. The teamwork is a success because they each share their own unique skill sets and wisdom with every battle they face. And while the violence is extreme the movie successfully shows the beauty and richness of the people and land they are all fighting to maintain and preserve.

If I hadn't utilized the power of LinkedIn and social media I may not have discovered this rich, inspiring movie as well as collect a vast number of movie recommendations. And now I get to share my discovery of a new film showing great leadership and teamwork with you via this blog. Social media once again demonstrates the amazing power of teamwork via online.

What movies have you seen that show great teamwork?

What films do you think demonstrate great teamwork and team spirit? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below OR click on the blog title above and scroll to bottom.

More Teamwork Movie Tips:
Tip#399: Find Your Dream Team – Micmacs

Tip#477: Great Teamwork Movies Part 1 – X-Men: First Class – Kung Fu Panda 2

Tip#478: Great Teamwork Movies Part 2 – Red Cliff

Tip#540: Great Teamwork Movies Part 3 – The Avengers

Tip#780: Great Teamwork Movies Part 4 - Hercules

Tip#843: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 5 - Galaxy Quest

Tip#849: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 6 - Invictus
Tip#851: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 7 – Avengers: Age of Ultron
Tip#954: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 8 - Captain America: Civil War
SEE MY SUMMER MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:
e.g. X-Men: First Class, Captain America
Click here

SEE NEW SPEAKER PROMO ON MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE
LECTURES, KEYNOTES, SEMINARS: Click here

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

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#477: Great Teamwork Movies Part 1 – X-Men: First Class – Kung Fu Panda 2

Seeing Captain America was very exciting (see tip#476) because of the sneak preview after the end credits. What you see is a glimpse of The Avengers movie that combines several Marvel superheroes into a super team. The films Iron Man, The Hulk, Thor and Captain America were all strategically produced to lead into a big movie team up in 2012! Joining this team will be Black Widow and Hawkeye.

There are so many movies that demonstrate great teamwork and I'd like to share some titles that are more superhero and animation based…

X-Men: First Class 2011

The prequel, X-Men: First Class takes us to the early 60's and shows us how Professor Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) first formed his school for gifted youngsters (mutants). You see how he trains each of them on how to control their unique powers like sonic screaming (Banshee) and magnetism (Magneto). Though most are young and inexperienced they quickly learn to work together in their first battle with evil mutants. See movie trailer

Kung Fu Panda 2 2011

In this animated sequel, Kung Fu Panda 2 finds Po (Jack Black) and the Furious Five battling a new enemy Shen (Dustin Hoffman) who has a deadly weapon that destroys Kung Fu. From the moment this group springs into battle you see how clearly they work as a team. Many times Po will leap into the air (like off a cliff) to save someone because he knows and trusts there is always a team member to help him from falling. And Po is there for his teammates as well like Tigress (Angelina Jolie). Every battle is successful because they work as a team, as one. See movie trailer

I grew up loving the X-Men comics which always highlighted the importance of teamwork and support of one another to achieve a goal. I'd like to think that movies like this and Kung Fu Panda are inspiring people of all ages of how essential it is to foster team spirit and of working together. It's a great lesson to take away from the magic of movies!

What movies have you seen that show great teamwork?

What films do you think demonstrate great teamwork and team spirit? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below OR click on the blog title above and scroll to bottom.

More Teamwork Movie Tips:
Tip#399: Find Your Dream Team – Micmacs

Tip#477: Great Teamwork Movies Part 1 – X-Men: First Class – Kung Fu Panda 2

Tip#478: Great Teamwork Movies Part 2 – Red Cliff

Tip#540: Great Teamwork Movies Part 3 – The Avengers

Tip#780: Great Teamwork Movies Part 4 - Hercules

Tip#843: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 5 - Galaxy Quest

Tip#849: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 6 - Invictus
Tip#851: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 7 – Avengers: Age of Ultron
Tip#954: Great Teamwork Movies, Part 8 - Captain America: Civil War
SEE MY SUMMER MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:
e.g. X-Men: First Class, Captain America
Click here

SEE NEW SPEAKER PROMO ON MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE
LECTURES, KEYNOTES, SEMINARS: Click here

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

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011

Tip#476: Do You Know Who You Are? - Captain America: The First Avenger - 5 Movie Tips

Toronto experienced an extreme heat wave this week and to find relief from the oven-like weather I enjoyed the cool comfort of movie theatres. I went to see 5 movies that amazingly had a similar theme that spoke to me on a deeper level. They were asking me if I knew who I really was.

Conan O'Brien Can't Stop (2011)

This documentary is about how late-night talk show host Conan O'Brien dealt with his shocking dismissal from his NBC show. This situation helped remind him of what he loved most which was being in front of an audience.

The King's Speech (2010)

This best Oscar film was showing free at a local library and reminded me that both King George VI (Colin Firth) and his speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) were strong, commanding leaders. They were inspiring me to bring out the leader in me.

Zookeeper (2011)

Despite mixed reviews, I was drawn to this family film about how zookeeper Griffin Keyes (Kevin James) is helped to become a strong-willed, assertive man by talking animals at his zoo. For example Joe the Lion (Sylvester Stallone) helped Griffin bring out his inner lion.

Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)

I was drawn to see this a 2nd time and always amazed at the powerful motivational messages in this animated wonder. Po (Jack Black) is compelled to discover who he is and where he came from. Along the way he learns about inner peace and that unhappy beginnings do not make you who you are, it is the rest of your story and who you CHOOSE to be right now.

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

The movie Captain America: The First Avenger is based on the Marvel Comics character about a sickly man from Brooklyn who is transformed into a super soldier during World War II. Despite his scrawny appearance, Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) knew he was brave, persistent, caring of others AND stood his ground with bullies.

These leadership qualities were simply magnified with an experimental formula along with a powerful physical upgrade making Rogers super strong and super fast. And even though Rogers wears his famous red, white and blue costume and slings his indestructible shield at villains you are always reminded of that simple good-hearted man inside the masked superhero.

Movie Heroes Are Mirrors

Was this movie hero a mirror for me? Big time! I grew up a scrawny kid who loved superhero comic books and just wanted to make people smile. I was able to do this and turned it into a career with my artwork and illustrations (see here) AND now I inspire people with my motivational stories. I even gave myself a superhero name!

And since I saw J.K. Rowling's inspiring Harvard speech (see tip#475) I've been intent on focusing my identity and career path. These 5 movies helped reinforce the need to do what excites me the most about my life and work AND help others to feel good. I'm progressing well and happy I have my movie heroes to help me move forward with confidence!

What movie heroes do you resonate with?

What movie heroes speak to you on some level? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below OR click on the blog title above and scroll to bottom.

Related Tips:
Tip#363: Discover Your Life Purpose – Accepted
Tip#1009: Discover Your Life Purpose, Part 2 - Moana
Tip#277: Unearthing Your Passion & Purpose - Get Shorty
Tip#476: Do You Know Who You Are? - Captain America: The First Avenger - 5 Movie Tips

SEE NEW SPEAKER PROMO ON MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE
LECTURES, KEYNOTES, SEMINARS: Click here

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

SEE THE MOVIES MOTIVATE LIST A to Z!
Look up your favourite movies and the motivational tips
written for them: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Use The Magic of Movies to Motivate
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2011