Motivation in Moving Pictures
We all have a movie moment that gets us excited or “pumped up” for some of us we’re thinking of Rocky in his grey sweats storming the steps or hanging upside down in a barn in Siberia on his comeback. We’ve all been motivated by the narrative of a movie or a book, embodied the character in a movie, or simply gotten excited to get out and get after it after watching a movie. Growing up, I always found myself in the moment - with the characters on the field in “Remember the Titans” dodging tackles and making the other team. Growing up wrestling so much of what I was leaning into was about toughness, grit, and tenacity. Sometimes we need that extra spark to get out of bed, to change our mindset, or just give us a little push out the door to get that run done in the rain.
I’m sharing a few of my favorite videos and movie moments that are sure to get you motivated, excited, and ready to tackle your next big goal! I know the first thing you’ll say is - “What! Not a SINGLE running video in here?” - No Chariots of Fire?
Personally, I’ve always identified running more as a game of chess or a boxing match. You have to be prepared to think many moves ahead of your opponent. In any good race - you’re taking punches and your delivering a few too. I identify with “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” far more as a runner waiting to hit the perfect kick in a race. Training is a fight mentally, physically, emotionally - be ready for that fight and prepare everyday.
Remember the Titans - Not Another Yard
Under Armour - Rule Yourself Campaign
The Michael Phelps video - all about giving it all for one final Olympic Bid. The pain of training and his personal story make this even more impactful. “It’s what you do in the dark, that brings you into the light”. Pure emotion and power!
Rule Yourself
You are the sum of all your training. Every rep, every mile, every pedal turn - it all adds up.
Nike - Find Your Greatness
I saw myself in that kid at the start. I started in the world of endurance sports at nearly 220 lbs. I didn’t have this “ad” to draw on then. I had my own desire to become better, and push my limits. This is truly about finding your own personal greatness. Greatness is no more unique to us than breathing
I Can, I Will, I Must
This is hands down one of my favorite motivational pieces. It reminds me that I can keep pushing and that at the top of the game - everyone is trying to give 100%. So you have to find even more - what does that mean? Is it really a sacrifice if it makes you better?
How to kill the most ferocious animal on the planet? Kill it after it eats. Kill it when it’s satisfied. Stay Hungry!
All Blacks Haka
Is it motivation and pump up? Is it intimidation? Look into the eyes of your opponents and let them know you’re a force to be reckoned with!
Conor McGregor
The KING of trash-talk. Trash talk is only good if you can back it up. Time and time again Conor proves that he can back his mouth up with his fists. He’s certainly lost a few fights. This montage is just a great reminder to “stay hungry” and keep climbing!