• May 29, 2026
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Inspiration

Finding Your Passion: Uncover What Drives and Inspires You

By 910
In the journey of life, discovering your passion is akin to finding the North Star—a guiding light that illuminates your path and infuses every step with purpose. Uncovering what truly drives and inspires you is a transformative process that goes beyond mere interests; it delves into the core of who you are. Here, we’ll explore specific techniques, backed by psychological insights and real-world examples, to help you embark on this empowering quest.

Self-Reflection: The Mirror to Your Soul

Begin your journey by looking inward. Self-reflection is the mirror to your soul, revealing the desires and interests that reside within. Take time to ponder your strengths, weaknesses, and the activities that bring you joy. Journaling can be a powerful tool to document your thoughts and observations, allowing patterns to emerge over time.

The Ikigai Framework: Where Passion Meets Purpose

The Japanese concept of Ikigai encapsulates the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Visualize these four circles merging into a central point—the sweet spot where passion meets purpose. This framework provides a holistic perspective on finding your true calling.

Explore Diverse Experiences: Fuel for Passion's Fire

Passion often hides in unexplored territories. Step out of your comfort zone and embrace diverse experiences. Attend workshops, engage in hobbies you’ve never considered, or volunteer for a cause that resonates with you. It is through these experiences that you unearth hidden talents and passions waiting to be discovered.

Learn from Role Models: Inspiration in Action

Seek inspiration from those who have found their passion. Read biographies, watch interviews, and learn from the journeys of individuals who have turned their passions into thriving careers. Their stories serve as beacons of motivation, showcasing that the pursuit of passion is a dynamic and evolving process.

Psychological Tricks: Hacking into Passion's Code

Understanding the psychology behind passion can be a game-changer. Research suggests that intrinsic motivation, driven by personal enjoyment and fulfillment, is a key factor in sustaining passion. Set meaningful goals, celebrate small victories, and cultivate a growth mindset to nurture your passion over time.

Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone

Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a stepping stone towards it. The path to passion is often marked by setbacks and challenges. Embrace failure as a crucial part of the learning process. Analyze what went wrong, adjust your approach, and use each failure as an opportunity for growth.

Connect with Like-Minded Communities

Passion thrives in the company of like-minded individuals. Join communities, both online and offline, where people share similar interests. Engaging with others who are passionate about the same pursuits provides support, inspiration, and valuable insights that can further fuel your own journey.

The pursuit of passion is a dynamic and ongoing process. As you delve into self-reflection, explore new experiences, and draw inspiration from others, remember that passion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It evolves, adapts, and grows alongside you. Uncover what drives and inspires you, and let it become the force that propels you toward a life ignited by passion and purpose.
Inspiration

Your Ultimate Bucket List Before New Year’s Eve

By Kristina Lufian 1231
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure as we delve into a curated list of captivating experiences designed to elevate the remainder of your 2023. Discover the joy of new adventures and the transformative power of personal growth through this carefully crafted bucket list. Let’s make the upcoming months a celebration of life’s most meaningful moments!
Arm yourself with the following bucket list ideas to triumph over the rest of this year.
  • Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Rise above the world as the sun paints the sky with hues of dawn. Experience the breathtaking beauty of a hot air balloon for a memory that will last a lifetime.

  • Learn a Dance Style:

Unleash your inner dancer! Whether it’s salsa, tango, or hip-hop, pick a dance style that intrigues you and join a class. Let the rhythm guide your journey.

  • Solo Weekend Getaway:

Plan a spontaneous solo trip. Explore a nearby town, unwind in nature, or indulge in a cozy weekend retreat. Embrace the freedom of solo exploration.

  • Mindfulness Retreat:

 Immerse yourself in a mindfulness retreat. Disconnect from the chaos, practice meditation, and rediscover the tranquility within.

  • Stargazing Camping Night:

Pitch a tent under the stars and spend a night immersed in the wonders of the cosmos. Capture constellations, enjoy a campfire, and savor the magic of the night.

  • Master a Musical Instrument:

Choose an instrument that resonates with you and embark on a musical journey. Whether it’s a guitar, piano, or flute, let the melodies flow.

  • Cook a Signature Dish:

Become a culinary artist by mastering a signature dish. Host a dinner party and impress friends and family with your newfound cooking skills.

  • Artistic Paint and Sip Night:

Attend a paint and sip class with friends. Express your creativity on canvas while enjoying good company and, of course, your favorite beverage.

  • Volunteer for a Cause:

Dedicate your time to a cause close to your heart. Whether it’s community service, environmental projects, or supporting local charities, make a positive impact.

  • Scenic Road Trip:

Hit the open road and embark on a scenic road trip. Discover hidden gems, picturesque landscapes, and create a travelogue of unforgettable moments.

  • Outdoor Yoga Retreat:

Practice yoga in nature’s embrace. Attend an outdoor yoga retreat surrounded by mountains, beaches, or lush greenery for a rejuvenating experience.

  • Write a Letter to Your Future Self:

Sit down and pen a letter to your future self. Share dreams, goals, and reflections. Seal it and open it at the end of the year for a self-discovery journey.

  • Host a Theme Dinner Party:

Get creative with a theme dinner party. Whether it’s a retro night, costume party, or international cuisine, host an unforgettable evening for friends.

  • Visit a Literary Landmark:

Explore a literary landmark or bookish destination. Walk in the footsteps of your favorite authors and immerse yourself in the world of literature.

  • Attend a Live Performance:

Experience the magic of a live performance. Whether it’s a concert, play, or comedy show, let the energy of the stage captivate your senses.

  • Learn a New Language:

Expand your horizons by learning a new language. Whether it’s for travel, cultural appreciation, or personal growth, embrace the joy of multilingualism.

  • Create a Time Capsule:

Gather meaningful items, notes, and mementos, and create a time capsule. Bury it or store it for future discovery, encapsulating memories of the present.

  • Digital Detox Weekend:

Disconnect from technology for an entire weekend. Reconnect with nature, indulge in face-to-face interactions, and savor the simplicity of the unplugged life.

  • Host a Film Marathon Night:

Pick a film series or genre and host a movie marathon night. Invite friends, prepare snacks, and enjoy a cinematic journey from the comfort of your home.

  • Take a Photography Expedition:

Channel your inner photographer and embark on a photography expedition. Capture the beauty of your surroundings and create a visual diary of your adventures.

  • Join a Public Speaking Club:

Boost your confidence and communication skills by joining a public speaking club. Overcome the fear of speaking in front of an audience and unleash your oratory prowess.

Remember, life’s most meaningful experiences often lie in the pursuit of new adventures and personal growth. Seize the remainder of 2023 with these exciting and fulfilling bucket list items! 
Inspiration

The Top 10 Inspirational Movies to Navigate Life’s Maze

By 794
Feeling adrift in the sea of uncertainty? Seeking inspiration and a sense of direction? Look no further than these cinematic gems that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with the journey of self-discovery, decision-making, and finding inspiration. Let the reel world guide you toward real-life revelations.

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006):

Join Will Smith on an emotional rollercoaster as he portrays the true story of Chris Gardner, a man facing homelessness while pursuing a life-changing internship. This heartwarming tale unfolds the power of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

2. Eat Pray Love (2010):

Embark on a global journey of self-discovery with Julia Roberts as she rediscovers the essence of life through food, spirituality, and love. This soul-searching adventure invites you to break free from societal expectations and embrace the path less traveled.

3. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013):

Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Walter Mitty, played by Ben Stiller, as he transforms from a daydreamer into a globe-trotting adventurer. This visually stunning masterpiece encourages you to turn your aspirations into reality and embrace the extraordinary within the ordinary.

4. Into the Wild (2007):

Journey into the wilderness with Emile Hirsch as Christopher McCandless, a young man seeking meaning beyond societal norms. This poignant exploration of self-discovery prompts you to question the status quo and redefine the true essence of happiness.

5. The Shawshank Redemption (1994):

Witness the indomitable human spirit through the eyes of Andy Dufresne, played by Tim Robbins, as he maintains hope and resilience during unjust imprisonment. This classic tale of friendship and redemption implores you to find solace in the darkest of times.

6. The Devil Wears Prada (2006):

Step into the high-paced world of fashion with Anne Hathaway as she grapples with self-identity and authenticity. This chic and empowering narrative challenges you to stay true to yourself, even in the face of societal pressures.

7. The Secret (2006):

Uncover the transformative power of positive thinking and the law of attraction in this enlightening documentary. Filled with real-life stories, The Secret invites you to manifest your desires and cultivate a mindset that attracts abundance.

8. The Bucket List (2007):

Share a poignant journey with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman as they embark on a global adventure to fulfill their bucket lists after receiving life-altering diagnoses. This touching tale encourages you to live life to the fullest, embracing every moment with purpose.

9. Good Will Hunting (1997):

Delve into the story of Will Hunting, portrayed by Matt Damon, a self-taught genius struggling with his past and future. This gripping narrative inspires you to confront your inner demons, pursue education, and unlock the potential within.

10. Legends of the Fall (1994): – Join Brad Pitt in an epic tale of love, loss, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of the American frontier. Legends of the Fall invites you to embrace the complexities of life, savoring both triumphs and heartaches.

As you embark on your personal quest for inspiration and self-realization, let these films be your guiding lights, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a cinematic embrace to illuminate your path forward. Each movie unfolds a unique narrative, inviting you to reflect, learn, and ultimately find inspiration within yourself. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and let the transformative journey begin.

Inspiration

Fueling Ambition: Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

By 816
In the realm of ambition, where dreams ignite and aspirations soar, a new era of leadership is emerging—a generation poised to redefine the boundaries of success. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, it becomes evident that the torchbearers of tomorrow are not merely dreamers but architects of change, relentlessly fueling their ambition to inspire and lead.

In this dynamic landscape, we witness the rise of leaders who dare to dream big, dismantling conventional barriers and charting unconventional paths. They understand that ambition, when fueled by purpose, transcends personal success—it becomes a beacon that guides others to their full potential.

Let’s delve into concrete strategies, backed by real-world examples and exercises, that propel individuals towards impactful and purpose-driven leadership.

The Power of Purpose

Research by psychologist Amy Wrzesniewski at Yale University underscores the transformative influence of purpose-driven leadership. Leaders who align their ambitions with a broader purpose not only find greater satisfaction but also inspire others to rally behind a shared vision.

Exercise: Reflect on your core values and aspirations, envisioning how your leadership ambitions can contribute to a larger cause. This exercise not only provides clarity but also lays the foundation for meaningful leadership.

Resilience in Action

The journey to leadership is often fraught with challenges, and resilience becomes a cornerstone in the pursuit of ambitious goals. Consider the life of Oprah Winfrey, a testament to resilience and perseverance. Despite facing adversity, she transformed setbacks into stepping stones for growth.

Exercise: Identify a setback you’ve encountered, dissect it, and outline actionable steps to turn it into a growth opportunity. This exercise not only builds resilience but fosters a proactive mindset in the face of challenges.

Inclusive Leadership

Studies, such as those conducted by McKinsey, consistently show that diverse and inclusive teams outperform their counterparts. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s leadership exemplifies the strength of inclusivity, fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued.

Exercise: Assess your current leadership circles, identifying areas for diversification. Actively seek opportunities to include perspectives from different backgrounds, as diverse teams are known to generate innovative solutions.

Mindfulness for Effective Leadership

In the fast-paced world of leadership, navigating challenges with clarity and composure is paramount. Research from Harvard Business Review underscores the positive impact of mindfulness on leadership effectiveness. Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment, enhances decision-making, reduces stress, and fosters a positive work environment. Leaders such as Arianna Huffington have integrated mindfulness into their daily routines to great effect.

Exercise: Incorporate a brief mindfulness practice into your daily schedule. Whether it’s a short meditation session or focused breathing exercises, observe how this practice enhances your ability to lead with clarity and navigate challenges with a centered mindset. This intentional focus on mindfulness not only contributes to leadership effectiveness but also fosters personal well-being, creating a harmonious synergy between professional and personal growth.

Strategic Goal Setting for Visionary Leadership

At the heart of effective leadership lies the art of strategic goal setting. Visionary leaders understand the power of aligning objectives with their overarching mission. By setting clear, measurable goals, they create a roadmap for success. Drawing inspiration from leaders like Jeff Bezos, who transformed Amazon through strategic goal setting, exercise: Define a long-term vision for your leadership journey. Break it down into actionable, strategic goals, and establish a timeline for achievement. This exercise not only hones your strategic thinking but also instills a proactive mindset, crucial for visionary leadership.

Mentorship Matters

Exemplary leaders often credit mentorship for their growth and development. Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, champions mentorship as a pivotal force that shapes leaders.

Exercise: Identify potential mentors in your field and initiate conversations or seek guidance from existing mentors. This exercise not only facilitates valuable learning experiences but also nurtures a supportive network critical for leadership growth.

In embracing these strategies, exercises, and real-world examples, aspiring leaders can fuel their ambition with purpose, resilience, inclusivity, effective time management, mindfulness, and the guidance of mentors. This holistic approach not only propels individuals towards success but also serves as a beacon, inspiring the next generation of leaders to forge their impactful paths.
Inspiration

Unlocking Your Creative Potential: Strategies for Inspired Living

By 726

Creativity is a powerful force that resides within each of us, waiting to be awakened and harnessed. It’s not limited to artists and writers; it’s a wellspring of innovation and inspiration that can enhance every aspect of our lives. Whether you’re seeking to infuse creativity into your work, personal projects, or daily routines, this article explores strategies for unlocking your creative potential and leading an inspired life.

Embrace Your Curiosity

The foundation of creativity is curiosity. Cultivate a childlike wonder about the world and a relentless desire to explore. Question the status quo, challenge assumptions, and allow your inquisitiveness to lead you into uncharted territory. Curiosity is the spark that ignites the flames of creativity.

Create a Creative Environment

Your physical and mental environment plays a significant role in nurturing creativity. Surround yourself with stimuli that inspire you—art, books, nature, or even a carefully curated workspace. Minimize distractions, declutter your surroundings, and create a sanctuary where your creative ideas can flourish.

Dabble in Diverse Disciplines

Cross-pollinate your mind by exploring a variety of interests and disciplines. Draw inspiration from fields beyond your own. A mathematician can find new perspectives in music, and a painter can learn from the principles of physics. Embracing diversity in your pursuits enriches your creative reservoir.

Embrace Failure as a Teacher

Failure is not the end; it’s a stepping stone to success. Every mistake and setback offers valuable lessons and insights. Embrace failure with open arms, knowing that it propels you closer to your creative goals. The most remarkable innovations often emerge from the ashes of failure.

Cultivate Mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness practices can clear the mental clutter, allowing your creative ideas to flow more freely. Take time to be present, to breathe, and to listen to your inner thoughts. In this stillness, you’ll discover the seeds of inspiration waiting to be nurtured.

Collaborate and Share Ideas

Creativity thrives in collaboration. Engage with others who share your passions and interests. Discuss ideas, seek feedback, and build upon each other’s inspiration. The synergy of shared creativity can lead to groundbreaking innovations.

Establish a Routine

While spontaneity has its place in creativity, establishing a routine can provide the structure needed for consistent creative output. Dedicate specific time for creative pursuits, whether it’s writing, painting, or problem-solving. A routine helps train your mind to be creative on demand.

Embrace Solitude

On the flip side, solitude can also be a powerful catalyst for creativity. Find moments of quiet and seclusion to reflect, daydream, and let your mind wander freely. In solitude, you can unearth the gems of inspiration hidden within your thoughts.

Be Open to Change

Creativity thrives in an environment of change and adaptation. Embrace change with an open heart and an open mind. New experiences and challenges are fertile ground for fresh ideas and creative growth.

Trust the Process

Creativity is a journey, not a destination. Trust the creative process and allow your ideas to evolve. Don’t rush or force them; instead, let them unfold organically. Be patient and have faith in your ability to create.

Your creative potential is limitless and waiting to be unlocked. By embracing curiosity, creating a conducive environment, learning from diverse disciplines, and being open to failure, mindfulness, and change, you can tap into your wellspring of inspiration. Your journey towards inspired living is an ongoing one, and as you follow these strategies, you’ll find that creativity enriches every aspect of your life, making it a vibrant and fulfilling adventure. So, go forth and unlock the boundless creative potential within you, and watch your life transform into a masterpiece of inspired living.

Zlata Ognevich, Kazka and Alyosha in the United States of America
From Editor Inspiration Lufian Stars

Ukrainian celebrities speak to Americans during US tour in effort to stop the Russian war

By Kristina Lufian 1551 3

Did you know that you are witnessing a historic year of modern civilization? Do you realize how your unifying with the Ukrainian people makes a difference to humanity? Your support has been proven to be effective and powerful in combating the evil intentions of global terrorist Putin.

In this episode, we speak with celebrities, politicians, and volunteers from Ukraine and the US at the Chicago charity event in support of Ukraine: their experience of fleeing during Russian bomb explosions, gratitude for American solidarity, and words of support for the Ukrainian Army. 

The year 2022 will mark a milestone in history, as the world is being introduced to a new form of inspiration – the spirit of the Ukrainian people, The Armed Forces of Ukraine, and President Zelensky. With the invasion and ongoing genocide in Ukraine, the Russian Federation had no idea that their aggression and terrorism would bring such a profound unity to its democratic neighbor nation, nor could they ever imagine that the Ukrainian people would inspire the entire planet.

Now, the civilized world has united and is working together to fight the global terrorists, who still threaten the planet with nuclear war. While many forms of support have been given across the globe, this episode shows the significant role played by the United States. Let the voices of the Ukrainian people be heard and help them stop Russian aggression.

New Episode

The interview with Zlata Ognevich, Alyosha, Kazka and other Ukrainians who travel from country to country, spreading their big message.

Charity Gala Event “We Stand with Ukraine” in Chicago was organized by Show Impulse, FTI Agency, and Chicago UA. Donations from ticket sales went to Charity Organization UNWLA (Chicago Branch #140) to support relief efforts in Ukraine.

Glory to heroes!
Inspiration

Write a Letter to a Future Self

By Kristina Lufian 2239

If you had received a letter from the younger version of yourself, what would you have written? What would you wish for yourself today if you were 10 years younger? An inspirational letter to your future self might just be what you need to become motivated to achieve your goals. This website is sure to be helpful when it comes to writing an email that you can read over and over again, setting goals and sending yourself a message with wishes in one, five, or even ten years from now.

That being said, fear not, FutureMe is here! Once you’ve decided that now is the time for self-reflective greatness, enter an email address or your name to begin writing.

In addition to signing up, FutureMe gives links to three Pinterest boards that are great for boosting motivation: fitness motivation, creative motivation and business/career motivation.

Alright, ready to write? Let’s go!

The website is pretty straightforward, but the text box is pretty large, so you’ll have plenty of space. FutureMe suggests writing for 5-10 minutes which could be about 300-500 words. With that in mind, choose a date in the future or days from today when you’ll read your letter and start writing!

Take a moment to reflect on what you want the future to bring you over the next year, five years, ten years? FutureMe allows you to visualize your dreams. Predict anything about your life, the world, or how you feel. You might want to make a resolution for the coming year. Even writing a letter to yourself in the future could be therapeutic!

Photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels

After you’ve finished filling out the letter, FutureMe says it will be delivered by email. If this doesn’t sound like it fits your needs, there is an option to print out the letter, so make sure and check that!

I think it is fair to say that the internet is making great progress in terms of sharing information. In addition to this, it’s more important than ever before to know how to utilize technology and take advantage of the powerful medium that it has become. FutureMe is a company that sends out letters from you, but from you at a younger age in the future. The hope is that these letters will encourage you further down the road to success and self-improvement.

It’s been proven time and again by motivational speakers like Tony Robbins that setting goals and sticking with them makes people happier and more successful.

Inspiration

Life Lessons from Julius Caesar

By Kristina Lufian 4374
Everyone is aware of Julius Caesar, but how well do you really know the famous Roman general? The most famous leaders from history are also well-known for their failures. As a result, these lessons are incredibly important to learn, as they can mold your life and help you make sure that you’re not repeating what happened with Caesar. He was ambitious to a fault while being a masterful strategist, which led to his downfall after he was betrayed by one of his closest friends.
We’ve compiled a list of the 37 greatest things to learn from Julius Caesar:

1) Know your strengths and weaknesses.

2) Never underestimate the power of fear; conquer it through patience and fortitude.

3) Acknowledge people’s strengths and seize opportunities to learn from them.

4) Know when to retreat: sometimes it’s better to run than fight.

5) Rely on the advice of others who are in a higher position than you.

6) Work through difficult circumstances, but never lose your perseverance.

7) Define your objectives clearly; having a clear goal is essential for victory.

8) Use uncertainty as an opportunity to seize power and make quick moves.

9) Be willing to fight against the opinions of others; be decisive when implementing change.

10) Never listen to what others are saying; instead, focus on your own observations.

I would rather be first in a little Iberian village than second in Rome.

- Julius Caesar -

11) Have a clear vision of where you want to go and how you’re going to get there.

12) Plan carefully before acting.

13) Once the time is right, act decisively and forcefully.

14) Don’t let people pull you in a direction that you don’t feel is right for you; follow your instincts.

15) Don’t be easily intimidated by anyone else, no matter how famous they are or how many followers they have.

16) Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or taking risks; you can never know everything.

17) Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it, even from people that you know won’t agree with you.

18) It’s OK to take charge if no one else will do it.

19) Use your position and authority to help the people around you succeed, even if it means investing in their future yourself.

20) Learn to forgive if someone has wronged you in the past, even when it would seem logical for revenge.

21) Show your strength and power by being decisive and trusting in your own judgment.

22) Stand up for what you believe.

23) Always raise your voice in agreement with ideas that are important to you.

24) Choose wisely: don’t commit yourself to things that are not in your best interest.

25) Always think before reacting: don’t be tempted to act on impulse.

26) Be willing to take a risk if the potential reward outweighs the possibility of failure.

27) Don’t drink too much, which will cloud your judgment and lower your ability to make decisions that matter.

28) Never stop learning; it will improve every aspect of your life.

29) Never underestimate the power of persuasion.

30) Don’t pick fights with people that are stronger than you.

I came, I saw, I conquered.

- Julius Caesar -

Caesar's wife must be above suspicion.

- Julius Caesar -
Photo by Chait Goli from Pexels

31) Seek allies wherever you can find them; they can make a big difference in a fight against something much bigger than you.

32) Be optimistic and believe in yourself; an “us vs. them” mentality does nothing but gives you a short-term boost, only to eventually drain any energy that it gave at a later time.

33) Be grateful for your life, your friends and family, and what you have, even though sometimes circumstances may not be easy.

34) Be careful of what you say in public because it can come back to hurt you.

35) Make decisions only when you are sure that they are the right ones for you, without second-guessing yourself.

36) Always make a good first impression; people will see through your façade if they know that it’s fake.

37) Know when to take a step back and have patience with others, especially when they don’t deserve it.

Julius Caesar is known for being one of the greatest military leaders and politicians that Rome has ever seen. He came from humble beginnings, but worked hard to lift himself up and fight for his country so that they could all move forward together. However, he was eventually betrayed by those closest to him, which led to his downfall. Over two thousand years later, we can still learn many things from Caesar because his struggles were very human in nature, even though he may not have been exactly as we imagine him to be in our imaginations.
Inspiration

5 Old Movies That Will Inspire You

By Kristina Lufian 1431
When we’re troubled, life can offer us a lot of pain. But there are movies that help us feel better about it. Whether you’re looking to improve your mood, decide what career path to take, or just want something positive on for background noise, these inspirational movies will always make you feel better and will show you that no matter what happens in life you can always find strength in another person’s story.

1. Big Fish

The movie tells the story of Ewan McGregor, who plays Edward Bloom, a dying man with an interesting tale about how he made it from a small town in North Carolina all the way up to become the head writer for “Saturday Night Live”. He’s honest, witty and generally one of life’s good guys. Just when our protagonist has finally everything he wanted – a loving family and an enormous fortune – tragedy strikes and everything changes.

He finds himself on his deathbed again with only his brother Chip (played by Albert Finney) remaining from his former life. This is a beautiful and touching movie. The story is about the value of life and the importance of listening to our hearts. It’s a great movie for anyone who has ever struggled with making mistakes, being forced to make decisions or selling out their dreams because the world around them was spinning faster than they could keep up with.

2. Drugstore Cowboy

Robert Rodriguez, known for his involvement in “Desperado”, “El Mariachi”, “Sin City” and many more, directed this wonderful film based on Richard La Plante’s novel about an LA based drug addict who sells his body to support his habit by trading sex for drugs on the streets of LA. It’s filled with romance, drama and heartbreak. 

But above all it’s about living life on your own terms. It’s a brilliant movie.

3. The Piano

Based on Daniel Keyes’s novel, this great movie follows a young deaf girl called Sephy who is struck deaf in childhood by an illness her mother refuses to name. It is only after her mother dies that she learns what caused her illness, and when she goes to find a new home for her and her father, the people they meet are not very kind, despite their kindness towards the rest of us.

This is a moving movie about family and the bonds that hold us together.

4. The Shawshank Redemption

Tim Robbins stars in this, one of the most famous drams ever. He plays Andy Dufresne, a man who is wrongly accused of murdering his wife and her lover, and imprisoned on murder charges for 39 years to life at “Shawshank Prison”. While incarcerated, he meets many other prisoners who are just as wrongfully imprisoned as him.

The film is set during the Great Depression in 1935. It’s also based on a Stephen King story so it’s like the best kind of movie you could ever want to see.

5. The Big Lebowski

Based on the book “Fargo”, this great movie follows a man called Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski, who is mistaken for another Jeffrey Lebowski in his home town. He is kidnapped by violent criminals after his rug is mistaken for a very expensive oriental rug and we get to watch this whole hilariously confusing story unfold. What makes this movie so good is the way it captures the boundless irrationality of life and how no matter your situation there are always people around you that care about you and will help you.

All of these factors add up to make it one of the most compelling movies ever made.

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Inspiration

10 Inspirational Quotes That Will Make You Dream Big

By 1436

You are the master of your destiny. You can influence, direct and control your own environment. You can make your life what you want it to be.

Napoleon Hill, Think and Grow Rich

There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.

Albert Einstein

I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.

Thomas A. Edison

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…

Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.

George Bernard Shaw

Always do what you are afraid to do.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

When I had nothing to lose, I had everything. When I stopped being who I am, I found myself.

Paulo Coelho, Eleven Minutes

Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.

Neil Gaiman, Coraline

When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.

Helen Keller

If you’re reading this… Congratulations, you’re alive. If that’s not something to smile about, then I don’t know what is.

Chad Sugg, Monsters Under Your Head