Sunday, May 30, 2010

Tip#360: Express Your Excitement - The Invention of Lying

I recently had the honour of being interviewed on The Sheri and Erin Show where we discussed superhero movies that motivate. It was an electric conversation where we talked about my top 10 superhero movies in blog tip#360. Read here

Lively host, Sheri Zampelli had her own superhero name, Gal Vanized and her equally energetic co-host Erin McElroy unveiled her superhero name of Perspecto-Girl. Together with me, Motivatorman, we unleashed super-powered movie insights across the airwaves! Listen to show: Click here

One non-superhero movie I brought up that excited the hosts was The Invention of Lying. Hearing their excitement from something that was meaningful to me is why expressing yourself is powerful. Sharing your passions can instantly bond you with like-minded new friends!

The Invention of Lying 2009

The movie The Invention of Lying takes place in a parallel reality where everyone always tells the truth as they see it. It can be a very dull and unimaginative world. But when one man named Mark (Ricky Gervais) discovers he can activate his imagination and he captures the attention of the world with his new ideas that people actually live on after they die. People are excited and want to hear more of what Mark has to say.

This movie motivates because it demonstrates that when you express your point-of-view, ideas and stories you can connect with like-minded people. It shows that no matter how different or unique your views are that someone somewhere will be excited about what you have to say.

Remember that your ideas and thoughts have the ability to positively affect others and even change the world for the better. All you have to do is believe in your own super abilities to express what excites you. Have the confidence in yourself to share your thoughts and feelings and you'll be amazed at the number of heart-to-heart connections you make!

YOU CAN LISTEN HERE
TO THE FULL RADIO INTERVIEW RECORDING: Click here

LIVE IN TORONTO - SEE MY KEYNOTE ON MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE
At The Arthritis Society Fundraiser
Sunday, May 30th, 6pm EST, Toronto Canada
More details: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez
Motivational Superhero
Re-energize your career & life
Inquire about keynotes & seminars for your organization:
www.motivatorman.com

Social Media Wingman
Helping you shine online:
www.socialmediawingman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Tip#359: How Superhero Movies Inspire - Top 10 Superhero Movies

There is a new genre of movies that feature comic book superheroes. They dazzle us with amazing special effects and exciting visuals. They can also inspire us deeply by showing flawed human beings that still achieve greatness.

Greatness from Flaws

Stan Lee is the creator of many Marvel Comics superheroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man, The X-Men and The Incredible Hulk. What he set out to do was create characters with the same problems humans have in real life. Peter Parker is the alter ego of Spider-Man who is still picked on in school and has problems holding down a job. Parker just happens to be a superhero on the side.

Purpose and Passion

The stories of superheroes like Batman can be a journey because their alter egos (Bruce Wayne) must go through struggles and pain in order to discover their purpose in life. And when they do they truly shine. Their purpose helping others becomes their passion and they feel more fulfilled then ever.

Here is a list of my top 10 favourite superhero movies:

1) Spider-Man 2 2004
• Identifying and utilizing your gifts
• Building self-confidence

2) Iron Man 2008
• Perseverance
• Creative solutions

3) The Dark Knight 2008
• Creative solutions
• Sacrifice for the bigger picture

4) Superman - The Movie 1978
• Serving others
• Following your destiny

5) X2-X-Men United 2003
• Teamwork
• Accepting differences of others

6) Kick-Ass 2010
• Perseverance
• Teamwork

7) The Incredibles 2004
• Teamwork
• Utilizing your gifts

8) Unbreakable 2000
• Identifying and utilizing your gifts
• Building self-confidence

9) The Incredible Hulk 2008
• Sacrifice for the bigger picture
• Perseverance

10) Watchmen 2009
• Teamwork
• Utilizing your gifts

Look at your own favourite superhero movies and identify what excites you about the characters. See what they are mirroring about you. Ask yourself if they are demonstrating abilities, strengths and gifts you wished you had. Be inspired that despite whatever flaws you see in yourself that YOU TOO can achieve the extraordinary.

Most of all be open to the idea that your favourite superhero movies are reminding YOU of your own super powers. They are there to help you be the courageous person you were born to be. Feel your greatness now!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SUPERHERO MOVIES?
Please let me know and why!


LISTEN to LIVE MOTIVATORMAN INTERVIEW
On The Sheri and Erin Show
Thursday, May 27th, 11am PST - 2pm EST
More details: Click here

SEE MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE KEYNOTE
At The Arthritis Society Fundraiser
Sunday, May 30th, 6pm EST, Toronto Canada
More details: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez
Motivational Superhero
Re-energize your career & life: www.motivatorman.com

Social Media Wingman
Helping you shine online: www.socialmediawingman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010




Sunday, May 23, 2010

Tip#358: Tap Into Your Primal Instincts – A History of Violence

The success of dealing with my recent life changes (see tip#352) is due to my primal instincts kicking into action. I just accepted that I was in survival mode and needed to find a new home, putting all my focus onto the basic necessities for living.

I could feel the primal part of my brain become more active as my "fight-or-flight response" leaned toward fight. And that fight reaction was more about unleashing a positive, proactive energy that led me to the solutions I needed to put a roof over my head.

A History of Violence 2005

The movie A History of Violence features a mild-mannered man named Tom (Viggo Mortensen) who reveals a radically different, heroic side to himself through an unexpected act of violence. And though this is a violent film the motivational value comes from a man whose primal instincts for survival kicks in when it was needed most.

Tom is the owner of a diner in a small, peaceful town when 2 robbers threaten him and his customers at gunpoint. Despite appearing passive and soft-spoken Tom's instincts kick into action and he skillfully disarms and kills the robbers in self-defense.

This may seem like an extreme example but it illustrates that you have the ability to tap into a proactive energy within you when faced with overwhelming challenges. You have what it takes to fight through the obstacles you face. You have the primal instincts for being the courageous person you want to be.

Every hero in the movies or in real-life faces challenges that trigger their "fight-or-flight response". Be inspired to know you can access your ability to stand your ground and fight for what you want.

LISTEN to LIVE INTERVIEW on The Sheri and Erin Show
Thursday, May 27th, 11am PST - 2pm EST
More details: Click here

SEE MOVIES THAT MOTIVATE KEYNOTE at The Arthritis Society Fundraiser
Sunday, May 30th, 6pm EST, Toronto Canada
More details: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez
Motivational Superhero
Re-energize your career & life: www.motivatorman.com

Social Media Wingman
Helping you shine online: www.socialmediawingman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Tip#357: Be Neighborly Using Social Media - Amal

Neighborly: like, characteristic of, or appropriate to neighbors; kind, friendly, sociable, etc.

One of the most uplifting feelings is to receive the unexpected generosity of friends, family and colleagues when you need it most. That's what I experienced during my recent life changes that were overwhelming to deal with alone. Generosity and giving is also at the heart of what social media is all about.

I just attended a wonderful evening of a book review hosted by the ever warm Judi and Nick Hughes of Your Planning Partners. The book was Mitch Joel's Six Pixels of Separation and was presented with enthusiasm by Faith Seekings of Rapport Communications and Design. She shared that the primary success keys of using social media is being authentic and to focus on providing value.

Providing value is about giving and helping others in a meaningful way. This is the underlying secret of social media which is to build community by giving and sharing information online. I believe social media is helping individuals get back to the fundamentals of a neighborly mindset.

Amal 2008

The movie Amal celebrates the concept of being neighborly. Amal (Rupinder Nagra) is an auto-rickshaw driver in contemporary India who exudes the spirit of customer service and generosity. You see how he goes out of his way to help and pay medical care for an injured little beggar girl.

And when faced with an unreasonable, irate customer (Naseeruddin Shah), Amal maintains his sense of honesty and integrity and allows him to pay for what the customer felt was the value of his ride. Amal even refused to accept a tip. The old man is so moved by Amal's actions that he chooses to put Amal in his will. The customer was in fact a billionaire.

Focus On Giving

Some say that what you give comes back ten-fold. I believe this is true and what is at the core to building a sense of supportive community in your life and in achieving success using social media. The key is to focus on giving from the heart AND provide value in other people’s lives without expecting anything in return.

Start today by being mindful of other people's needs. Hold a door open for someone. Give someone your seat on the bus. Or give advice to someone in need whether it's online or in person. Practice providing value and being neighborly any way you can. The uplifting energy you'll feel will be worth it!

What other movies do you know that inspire community or being neighborly? Let me know in the comments tab below or via email.

Emmanuel Lopez
Motivational Superhero
Re-energize your career & life: www.motivatorman.com

Social Media Wingman
Helping you shine online: www.socialmediawingman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Tip#356: Feel Good from Nostalgia - Big Trouble In Little China

Nostalgia: A bittersweet yearning for things, persons or situations of the past

I recently attended the grand opening of a new movie lover's experience called the Toronto Underground Cinema. Situated in my own neighbourhood, the opening drew a full house and even a tweet by famed film critic Roger Ebert. See here

Opening night had a double feature of 2 cult classics, Clue and Big Trouble In Little China. Both were shown in the traditional 35 mm with all the film scratches and sound glitches of a pre-digital, surround sound world. They even showed film trailers from the 80's now looking joyfully cheesy!

Thanks to founders Charlie Lawton, Alex Woodside and Nigel Edward Agnew, the nostalgic feeling was amazing especially when shared by 700 other movie fans. And seeing Big Trouble In Little China was a surprise because after all these years it was still very entertaining and super fun to watch especially with a cheering, exuberant crowd.

Big Trouble in Little China 1986

The movie Big Trouble in Little China was a unique mix of a Hollywood action film, witty comedy and Kung Fu sorcery when first released. It stars Kurt Russell as Jack Burton a cocky, all-American hero who actually does very unheroic (yet hilarious) deeds throughout the movie as he faces Chinese gangs and mystical warriors and creatures.

The film also starred a young Kim Cattrall famous today from Sex In The City fame. Seeing her was another surprise because she reminded me of how funny and spunky she was in this movie. And seeing the director John Carpenter’s name on the screen brought back memories of his other films I grew up with like Halloween, Escape from New York and The Thing.

A Powerful Feeling

Nostalgia is a powerful feeling and for a brief moment I was transported back in time to what feels now like another life. I was taken away from the stresses of my current life challenges and bathed in the form of cinema I knew and loved growing up.

So if you are in Toronto check up the Toronto Underground Cinema and get transported to your past. Share your passion for movies with people who share the same enthusiasm. And if you get that loving, aching, bittersweet feeling then you know you are bathing in nostalgia. Enjoy the feeling!

JOIN TORONTO UNDERGROUND CINEMA
ON FACEBOOK: Click here

JOIN ME ON FACEBOOK: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez
Motivational Superhero
Re-energize your career & life: www.motivatorman.com

Social Media Wingman
Helping you shine online: www.socialmediawingman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Tip#355: Passion Re-Energizes Your Purpose – 500 Days of Summer

Traumatic life or career changes can help shatter your old, destructive mindsets and steer you back on course with your life purpose. That is happening to me at this very moment as financial challenges and my life-changing experience with the Mastery of Self Expression workshop remind me of what I am passionate about.

After being disconnected from everything I "thought" was right in my life, my true passions are shining through. I've reaffirmed my love for movies and for writing this blog. And I love exciting people about social media. I've even realized how much I love making short video movies for social media.

All these passions revolve around a desire to make heartfelt connections with people and help them connect with others. And as I wrote in the previous blog tip#354 this all feels part of the legacy I want to leave behind on the planet.

(500) Days of Summer 2009

At the beginning of the movie (500) Days of Summer the narrator says "This is not a love story". This helps shake up your mindset because one of the key subplots revolves around rediscovering your passion.

In the story Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is devastated after his girlfriend Summer (Zooey Deschanel) breaks up with him. In a disconnected state of mind he quits his unfulfilling job and slowly begins to explore his buried passion for architecture.

His shattered mindset made room for his love of buildings to shine through and soon he goes on job searches in the field he truly desired. He looks and feels better and the ending of the movie will put a big smile on your face!

Tom was a big mirror for me. He was a reminder that out of my recent struggles I will be even more aligned with my passions and purpose.

Opportunity for Renewal

So if you are experiencing the pain of life or career changes know that there is a message within this uncomfortable situation. This is your opportunity for renewal. You get to reboot your life purpose or direction to be more fulfilling and passionate. You get to re-energize yourself.

Remember there is always a silver lining under any dark cloud you find yourself under. That silver lining will lead you back to your true passions.

SNEAK PEEK!
Take a look at my first Social Media Wingman Video Tip that I loved making: See here

And have a sneak preview of my new Social Media Wingman website: See here

I welcome your responses and feedback!

Emmanuel Lopez
Social Media Wingman
Movies That Motivate Specialist
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Sunday, May 09, 2010

Tip#354: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 1 – Iron Man 2

My recent move into a new live/work space (see tip#353) is one of several life-changing experiences I am going through right now. I have also been re-examining every aspect of my life and career because I know more drastic changes are needed.

One question that's been helping me is one that came from the Mastery of Self Expression workshop I took a few weeks ago (see tip#351 and tip#352). The question was to ask yourself: What is the legacy you want to leave behind? How do you want to be remembered?

I thought about friends and family who have died and how they continue to help me enjoy life or be a better person. My father taught me how to be incredibly resourceful with whatever I had in front of me. He has been with me every step of my life and career since he passed on. His legacy is helping me identify what mine will be.

Iron Man 2 2010

The movie Iron Man 2 is filled with non-stop action and a powerful message about legacy. Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) discovers that he is dying and falls on a self-destructive path. Along the way he re-examines his father's legacy.

While in that reflective mindset Stark finds answers to solve his current challenges. It was his father's legacy and a special message from the past that helps Stark move forward as a man and as a superhero.

Explore What Legacy Means To You

So if you feel stuck in your career or life ask yourself what your legacy will be? What do you want to leave behind for others to benefit from? How will you contribute to helping people or help the planet?

Look at loved ones who have passed on and recognize how they have added value to your own life. Think about how your heroes throughout history have influenced you in being a better person. Explore what legacy means to you and you will open your mind and heart to the answers you seek.

Related Tips:
Tip#354: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 1 – Iron Man 2 
Tip#709: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 2 – David Bowie Exhibit – Paul Walker – Good Ol’ Frida
Tip#734: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 3 – Harold Ramis – Alice Herz-Sommer – The Straight Story
Tip#923: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 4 - Alan Rickman – Top 5 Films 

Emmanuel Lopez
Social Media Consultant
Movies that Motivate Specialist
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, May 05, 2010

Tip#353: Who Are Your Super-Friends? - Mystery Men

We did it! The main move into my new live/work space (see Tip#352) took 5 solid hours with the help of 7 super-friends. And even in prepping my move, painting and cleaning, there were even more amazing people that helped. I am so grateful for all their big-hearted assistance. We worked as a team.

In fact, my move gave me the opportunity to witness the secret super powers of these friends. They each surprised us all with hidden abilities that made the move incredibly efficient. And they all LOVED what they were tasked to do!

One of the groups I called the "Super Workhorses" who tirelessly moved furniture "in a single bound"! And there were the "Super Scrubbers" who loved eliminating dirt and grime with their super sponges. Then there were "Super Declutterers" who for months helped me let go of kryptonite junk that had been draining me of my own super powers for years!

Mystery Men 1999

There are many superhero movies out there and one that has many fun superhero names is Mystery Men starring Ben Stiller. Based on the Dark Horse comic book series, the film is a comedic take on superheroes with unusual and/or made up powers. Here is a list of superhero names from the movie:

Mr. Furious
The Shoveler
Blue Raja
The Spleen
The Bowler
The Waffler
Pencil Head
Squeegee Man
Ballerina Man
PMS Avenger

Though some of these titles are silly they exemplify the uniqueness of one's own preferences, gifts and talents for something they ENJOY or LOVE to do. And in any collaborative situation where team spirit is crucial it's important to recognize the natural skill sets of those around you.

Whether it's in your workplace or personal life you definitely have individuals around with the skills you lack that can help you with your dreams or goals. Be open to recognizing and identifying your super-friends. And remember to shine your bat-signal up in the sky whenever you need help!

WHAT WOULD YOUR SUPERHERO NAME BE
BASED ON YOUR TALENTS OR SKILL SETS?
Let me know via email or the comments tab below.

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Sunday, May 02, 2010

Tip#352: Keep Movin' and Groovin' – Shall We Dance?

I'm in good spirits considering I am moving from my fantastic live/work space after 15 years. For past several weeks it's been a little stressful having to let go of a home I loved while decluttering and packing.

It's been physically, mentally and emotionally taxing especially with all the other big changes I am experiencing. I am also still moving through the epiphanies of the life-changing Mastery of Self Expression workshop I've been writing about. See: Tip#351

What surprised me was the night before the main moving day and I was feeling my aching, sore muscles I ended up getting re-energized by a movie about dance.

Shall We Dance? 2004

The movie Shall We Dance? is about a lawyer named John Clark (Richard Gere) who feels he is missing something in his life. After seeing the lost look in Paulina (Jennifer Lopez) through a window during regular commutes home he impulsively signs up for dance lessons at her dance studio.

Through dance John awakens something inside him and helps Paulina lift herself up from her sadness. There is a scene where she dances with him to show how more alive he can be for an upcoming competition. It is electric to see. You'll be inspired to witness these characters re-ignite their passion through the power of dance.

I can get transported from the stresses of life through exciting Sci Fi movies or loud action/adventure films. In this case a movie about dance took me to an exhilarating world away from my aching muscles. I was re-energized to make the big, final move into a new home and new chapter in my life.

Remember that the magic of movies can energize your spirit. They can help keep you movin' and groovin' no matter how down or exhausted you may feel. Whatever movie genre you prefer, be open to any story that will re-ignite your passion.

WHAT MOVIES RE-IGNITE YOUR ENERGY OR PASSION?
Let me know via email or the comments tab below.

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Tip#351: Who Is The Superhero Within You? – Kick-Ass

At this very moment ALL the pieces of my life, career and business have been tossed up into the air. It's because I've been shaken to the core of all my belief systems from the intensive, 3 day workshop I attended in Toronto 2 weekends ago. It was called MASTERY OF SELF EXPRESSION and it really kicked my ass.

This workshop was originally designed for actors who had lost their passion stemming from the pain of countless auditions and rejections. Some famous names that have participated in this workshop are Woody Harrelson, Ted Danson, Sigourney Weaver, Fisher Stevens, Mary Louise Parker and Marisa Tomei.

The MASTERY workshop helped me unearth factors about myself that were shocking to face. And yet I knew these blocks were the cause of the multiple life changes I've had to make this month. I'm even re-examining the future of this movie blog and my superhero inspired business name, Motivatorman.

Thankfully I was synchronistically led to seeing a new movie that would lift my spirits.

Kick-Ass 2010

The movie Kick-Ass is about an ordinary teenager named Dave (Aaron Johnson) who becomes a real-life superhero named Kick-Ass. However his first attempts to fight crime leave Dave beaten, stabbed and hit by a car. Despite all this brutal realism he demonstrates his desire and commitment for keeping his dream alive.

In one scene Dave is valiantly protecting a man from three attackers and proves that we was willing to die in order to protect a stranger in need. He proved he was willing to do whatever it took to follow his dream.

This scene reminded that there is a superhero in me somewhere waiting to be re-defined. I was inspired to do whatever it took to move forward despite all the uncertainty I face. Once again a movie has helped cut through the anxiety and emotional pain that can paralyze ANYONE dealing with unexpected change or crisis.

Do your best to stay positive and proactive in your own challenges. Be inspired to question your own belief systems holding you back. Question your personal identity and find that superhero within you. Most of all, feel free to kick your own ass in order to move forward in your life!

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO
WHAT WOULD YOUR NAME BE?
Let me know via email or the comments tab below!

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Tip#350: What Movies Motivate You? – Your Responses #2

Here are more movies that motivate from contacts in my movie lover groups on LinkedIn. These choices demonstrate the diversity and timelessness of films that can affect each of us in meaningful ways.

Chariots of Fire 1981

The story of Eric Liddell, his incredible will and staying true to his belief, even in the face of unbelievable pressure. Perhaps my favorite movie of all time.
Gregg Young
Midland, Michigan, USA

Meatballs 1982

Any time I take myself too seriously or am about to pack it in, I remember Bill Murray's omniscient exhortation, "It just doesn't matter!" So, I say screw it and get back to doing what I really want to do. That's what motivates me most frequently.
Herb Blank
Greater New York State USA

Patton 1970

For me, one big inspirational movie is Patton, pretty much relevant in corporate context. Others include Jerry Maguire, The Pursuit of Happyness, Meet John Doe, Shichinin no Samurai (which teaches a lot about teamwork and leadership models).
Anindya Ray
Bangalore Area, India

Star Wars: A New Hope 1977

The original Star Wars: A New Hope when it first came out. It had that Gosh! Gee Whiz! factor that made me want to go to Film/TV school and made me become a Videographer.
Pancho Tarra
Costa Mesa, CA USA

What movies motivate you? Write back or leave a comment below of what movies have inspired you and why. Also share what city and country you are writing from.

I will be publishing your answers in upcoming blog entries and you'll help inspire other people all around the world!

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Tip#349: What Movies Motivate You? – Your Responses #1


I am in a state of deep reflection after completing the intensive 3 day workshop in Toronto called MASTERY OF SELF EXPRESSION (see tip#348). It will take me awhile to articulate my profound experience of facing deep rooted blocks.

Thank you everyone who wrote in about your favourite films. Here is a selection of 4 movies that motivate from readers of this blog.


Flashdance 1983

"i always thought Flashdance was inspirational. cheesy but i just love how she fights for a dream and actually attains despite great adversity."
Candice Frederick
Queens NY USA
Blog: Reel Talk

Peaceful Warrior 2006

Movie: Peaceful Warrior,
Why: I learned to live in the moment and detach from any outcome
Patrick B.: Toronto Canada
Blog: Journeyman Stories

Now Voyager 1942

"The movie that has always motivated me is Now Voyager with Bette Davis. She breaks free from the negative self-image that was imposed upon her by her family and herself to blossom into a beautiful and generous woman. In the end, it is her strength and generosity that allows her to make a sacrifice that will ensure her a greater love."
Jane
Milwaukee, WI USA

Silkwood 1983

"The movie that has always sparked something within me is Silkwood with Cher, Meryl Streep and Kurt Russell. Yes, I realize that this might be an odd movie for one to be motivated by but it wasn't just the movie that inspired me, it was the theatre in which we saw it that made it special.

I was visiting my sister in a town called Invermere, British Columbia. We saw the movie in a small old theatre from the 60's. Everything was vintage and had all the old chairs and decoration. The movie was not my favorite one of all, but for some reason the experience of watching a movie in a time warp became an inspiration all on its own. I do love Cher though."
Dave Larsen
Toronto Canada

What movies motivate you? Write back or leave a comment below of what movies have inspired you and why. Also share what city and country you are writing from.

I will be publishing your answers in upcoming blog entries and you'll help inspire other people all around the world!

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Tip#348: What Movies Motivate You?


As I write this I am currently attending an intensive, 3 day workshop in Toronto called MASTERY OF SELF EXPRESSION with Hollywood film actor/facilitator Larry Gilman and co-facilitator Tammy Cunningham. See

It is shaking up everything I thought I knew about myself and about my life purpose, career and even this movie blog. So in order to stay connected with the workshop this blog will be brief and unique.

I invite you to please tell me what movies motivate you? Write back or leave a comment below of what movies have inspired you and why. Also share what city and country you are writing from.

I will be publishing your answers in upcoming blog entries and you'll help inspire other people all around the world!

Emmanuel Lopez
www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Tip#347: When Your World Is Turned Upside Down – 5 Movie Tips


The economic downturn of 2008 hit many people around the world. It turned their worlds upside down and forced them to see life differently and adapt in order to survive.

There was a NASA experiment in the 60's that fitted a group of astronauts with convex goggles that turned their visual world upside down. They had to wear the goggles day and night while dealing with the stress and hardships of stumbling blindly.

Then something amazing happened. On the 26th day one of the men suddenly saw the world right side up. He was still wearing the goggles! Over time his brain had created new neural pathways to adjust to what he was seeing. By the 30th day all the other astronauts followed suit.

This proves that whatever challenges you face can be overcome despite whatever you see in front of you. Your brain can adapt to unexpected change and crisis.

Here are 5 movies that inspire one's ability to overcome financial crisis...

Cinderella Man 2005

This is the true story of boxer Jim Braddock (Russell Crowe) and how his resilience and passion for his family allowed him to survive during the great depression.

It's a Wonderful Life 1946

This Christmas classic shows how George Bailey (James Stewart) discovers the value of friendships and supportive relationships during financial hardships and personal sense of hopelessness.

The Pursuit of Happyness 3006

Based on the true story of Chris Gardner (Will Smith) who finds himself homeless and surviving on the streets with a toddler. He demonstrates inspiring resilience and optimism as he trains to be stockbroker while homeless.

Seabiscuit 2003

This is the true story of an undersized racehorse named Seabiscuit whose victories lifted the spirits of the team behind it as well as an entire nation during the great depression.

Sullivan's Travels 1941

A wealthy film director named Sullivan (Joel McCrea) sets out in disguise as a penniless tramp to make a film about the poor. He gets a reality shock and learns how the poverty-stricken persevere through the power of laughter.

So if you find your world has been turned upside down because of financial challenges or other unexpected crisis feel positive knowing that you have the ability to successfully adapt. Know that you are fully capable in becoming more resourceful than ever. Your mind is a powerful, resilient muscle.

EMMANUEL-MOTIVATORMAN IS THE NEW
TORONTO CAREER TRANSITIONS EXAMINER
Read 3 success factors of movies that will motivate your success in overcoming career and job transitions. See here

ASK ABOUT MOTIVATORMAN'S
Social Media Consulting services for helping:
1) Individuals manage their career & connections
2) Organizations manage their message
See more info here under Consultations: www.motivatorman.com

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist
For Individuals & Organizations

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010


Sunday, April 11, 2010

Tip#346: The Power of Collaboration Part 2 – How To Train Your Dragon


One of the reasons I am passionate about social media and social networking is that it's all about cultivating a sense of community on a local and global level. It's about breaking down invisible walls between people and encouraging the power of collaboration.

Social media is helping people share information and learn more about each other on sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Blogging. These sites are showing we all have more in common then we do in differences. Seeing each other as allies rather than the enemy or competition is ultimately more productive whether it’s in the workplace or personal life.

How to Train Your Dragon 2010

The animated 3-D movie, How to Train Your Dragon celebrates the power of collaboration on many inspiring levels. Set in a mythical Viking world, a young teen named Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) aspires to become a dragon slayer. After capturing his first dragon he finds that he is unable to kill it and instead is compelled to help and befriend it.

In doing so Hiccup learns more about dragons and their motives and soon they develop a collaborative relationship. They find that together they are stronger and able to accomplish much more then apart. Later that synergistic spirit spreads to Hiccup's friends that once were enemies and then to the entire village.

Develop a mindset for collaboration and you'll discover how quickly you can accomplish your dreams and goals. Develop a team spirit mindset and you'll also be learning more about how differences can become strengths when you focus on working harmoniously together.

We are all living in an exciting new era of collaboration with the online social media world. Let it inspire you to cultivate more meaningful, supportive relationships in your work and life!

READ PART 1:
Tip#306: The Power of Collaboration – Funny People

EMMANUEL-MOTIVATORMAN IS THE NEW
TORONTO CAREER TRANSITIONS EXAMINER
Read 3 success factors of movies that will motivate your success in overcoming career and job transitions. See here

ASK ABOUT MOTIVATORMAN'S
Social Media Consulting services for helping:
1) Individuals manage their career & connections
2) Organizations manage their message
See more info here under Consultations: www.motivatorman.com

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist
For Individuals & Organizations

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Tip#345: 2 Key Tips for Job Seekers - The Terminal


Job and career transitions can be life changing, emotional experiences especially when they come out of nowhere. And yet there is great learning and personal development that can blossom from these adversities. Resourcefulness and collaboration are 2 important keys.

After I discovered The Washington Post had featured my blog during my own career transition, I was able to use social media to track down the writer, Vickie Elmer. I found her on LinkedIn and thanked her for writing the article. Recently she asked if I could contribute movie recommendations for job seekers on her own blog called Working Kind. See here

I recommended Cinderella Man and The Shawshank Redemption as powerful movies that can inspire job seekers. These titles are among others I am currently writing articles on as the new Toronto Career Transitions Examiner on Examiner.com. See here

It was exciting to be able to collaborate with someone like Vickie who helped make a big difference during my career transition. And it reminded me of another favourite movie that is highly motivational for anyone going through a job or career change.

The Terminal 2004

Steven Spielberg's film, The Terminal is filled with tips to encourage and inspire job seekers. Based on a true story, Viktor Navorski (Tom Hanks) is thrown into a situation where he is forced to live within the confines of a NYC airport.

With no money, no English and no one he knows to help him, Viktor shows how resourceful one can be in the face of unexpected adversity. You see how he makes himself a bed, discover methods of collecting change so he can eat and you see how he teaches himself to speak English from television monitors and guide books from the airport book store.

When Viktor demonstrates his skill sets in construction he is immediately given a paid job within an area being redeveloped in the terminal. He soon cultivates many collaborative friendships within the airport where they all help one another achieve certain goals and dreams.

So if you find yourself in a job or career transition remember to see it as an opportunity to increase your resourcefulness and supportive relationships. Choose to see your transition as a time to learn new methods and tools to proactively achieve your goals AND collaborate effectively.

Any situation can be a blessing in disguise once you develop an optimistic mindset and see the hidden gifts within.

3 other resources to inspire you:

1) Working Kind blog - 10 job seeker movies: See here
2) Toronto Career Transitions Examiner - Movie Tips: See here
3) Tip#122: The Bright Side of Career Transitions - 9 Movie Tips: See here


ASK ABOUT MOTIVATORMAN'S
Social Media Consulting services for helping:
1) Individuals manage their career & connections
2) Organizations manage their message
See more info here under Consultations: www.motivatorman.com

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Specialist
For Individuals & Organizations

© Emmanuel Lopez 2010