Inspirational People
This entrepreneur created Apple and inspired innovation, creativity, and thinking differently
Steve Jobs
This green ogre lives in a swamp, befriends a talking donkey, and learns not to judge himself based on others’ opinions
shrek
This Bruno Mars hit is often used at weddings and focuses on appreciating someone exactly as they are without needing to change
“Just the Way You Are”
This movie follows a young boy who befriends an alien and helps him “phone home,” showing friendship, kindness, and empathy
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
This calming activity often involves sitting quietly and focusing your attention to reduce stress and increase awareness
meditation
This talk show host grew up in poverty, she became one of the most influential media figures in the world, and is known for empathy and philanthropy
Oprah Winfrey
This superhero from Wakanda leads with strength, wisdom, and compassion for his people
Black Panther
This upbeat Pharrell Williams song repeats one emotion throughout and became a global feel-good anthem
“Happy”
This comedy stars Jim Carrey as a man who decides to say yes to every opportunity and discovers a more fulfilling life
Yes Man
This simple breathing technique involves slowly inhaling, holding your breath, and then exhaling to calm your body
deep breathing
This NBA champion superstar is known for his leadership on and off the court and his work supporting education in his community
LeBron James
This awkward regional manager of Dunder Mifflin loves his employees in his own way and grows into a more caring leader
Michael Scott
This Taylor Swift track is about ignoring criticism and negativity, with a chorus about brushing things off and moving on
“Shake It Off”
This pixar film follows a widower who travels in a house lifted by balloons and learns new friendships later in life
Up
This habit involves setting limits with others to protect your time and emotional energy
setting boundaries
This rapper created a hit song focused on suicide prevention and speaks openly about mental health 1-800-273-8255 (song)
logic
This small trash-collecting robot on a deserted Earth falls in love and helps save humanity
wall-e
This Lady Gaga anthem is all about being comfortable with who you are and not changing for anyone else
“Born This Way”
This film starring Will Smith and (his son) Jaden Smith tells the true story of a father struggling with homelessness while never giving up on building a better life for his son
The Pursuit of Happyness
This technique includes repeating encouraging statements to yourself to build confidence and positivity
positive affirmations
This Olympic gymnast prioritized her mental health on the world stage, inspiring others to do the same
Simone Biles
This adventurous archaeologist travels the world, solves puzzles, and faces danger with courage and determination
Indiana Jones
This Journey hit, often heard at sporting events, is about not giving up and continuing to believe
“Don’t Stop Believin’”
This inspiring film shows an English teacher who challenges his students to think for themselves and truly live life, starring Robin Williams
Dead Poets Society
This practice involves focusing your full attention on the present moment instead of worrying about the past or future
mindfulness