Movies are a source of motivation and inspiration for your career goals and offer perspective when you're dissatisfied with your career.
How Can Movies Motivate People
Motivation is an inner drive that energizes and directs our behavior toward achieving specific goals, taking action, and pursuing personal or professional aspirations.
Some movies motivate or inspire, but some can make you want to stop watching for being dull. However, some films can deeply connect and provide you with the motivation and inspiration to strive for success. These movies tap into emotions to uplift, encourage, and go beyond mere contemplation, prompting you to take action.
Movies Trigger Motivation Through Thoughts
Movies trigger motivation by depicting relatable characters overcoming challenges, showcasing achievements, engaging emotions, portraying positive values, visualizing possibilities, and providing a moment of reflection. These elements prompt viewers to think about personal growth, potential, and the possibility of positive change in their own lives.
Top Five Motivating Movies About Jobs and Careers
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
George Bailey (James Stewart) is a businessman who initially believes his life is not essential, but with the help of an angel, he discovers his significance and the people who need him in his small town.
The Pursuit of Happiness (2006)
Follow the journey of Chris Gardner (Will Smith), a struggling salesman and a single father who works hard to overcome financial challenges and find true happiness by selling outdated medical devices to keep food in his and his son's mouths. Gardner faces hardships, but through determination, an internship, and some luck, he lands his dream job, bringing stability to his life. The real-life bond between Will Smith and his son, Jaydin Smith, adds depth to the struggles and joy experienced in their pursuit of happiness.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Step into NYC, the city of lights and fashion, as Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway) strives for recognition in fashion writing. Working for the formidable Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) presents daunting challenges. Initially viewing Priestly as the Devil, Sachs discovers her boss's passion for the company. Through this journey, Sachs learns about respect, dedication, commitment, and love in fashion.
The Intern (2015)
Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old retiree, becomes an intern at an online fashion site. The film explores whether he can keep up with younger colleagues and offers career lessons, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. He is described as "frothy, playful, irresistible" by Manohla Dargis of The New York Times.
A Family Man (2016)
It is a drama about Dane (Gerard Butler), a headhunter in a high-stakes corporate battle facing personal and professional issues, which he has to choose between. The film delves into the theme of balancing work and home life, offering lessons about focusing on what truly matters.