Almost 1 month after Pay it Backward Day and many of us still glow in the rosy aftermath of that event. Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman, fellow Do Gooder and friend, was there and pointed out there are many great movies about the power of giving. This post is part 1 of Emmanuel’s 6 part series on movies that inspire giving.

When you practice the power of giving your whole world will change. It’s about understanding that positive energy can flow from person to person. So when you give something of yourself to others you become part of a flow of energy that can energize you as well.

The book “How Full Is Your Bucket?” by Tom Rath and Donald Clifton is all about the power of giving. It’s based on the theory that everyone has an invisible bucket that fills or empties with every social interaction. So you are either energized or depleted with every person you encounter during your day.

Focus on energizing others and filling their bucket whenever you can. Give a compliment to a stranger, say thank you or acknowledge them in a kind way. Think about how you can make someone’s day. And when you least expect it you’ll feel a rush of energy because your bucket will be filled from the appreciative smile you’ll get in return!

Many movies demonstrate the power of giving. Here is a list of 15 favourite movies of mine that can inspire you to be a more thoughtful, altruistic person:

1. As Good As It Gets 1997
2. Bed of Roses 1996
3. Bicentennial Man 1999
4. Evan Almighty 2007
5. Ghost Town 2008
6. Groundhog Day 1993
7. Meet John Doe 1941
8. Millions 2004
9. Mr. Deeds Goes To Town 1936
10. Ocean’s 13 2007
11. Pay It Forward 2000
12. Peaceful Warrior 2006
13. The Shawshank Redemption 1994
14. The Ultimate Gift 2006
15. Yes Man 2008

In the next 5 blog posts I will write why each of these movies will inspire you. And if you have a favourite movie that motivates you to give, please let me know!

Emmanuel Lopez a.k.a. Motivatorman is an award-winning illustrator, recording artist and motivational specialist. The Washington Post has featured his blog as a recommended resource for motivational tips and inspiring movie examples. Emmanuel offers empowering keynotes and seminars to organizations to help build optimistic mindsets during the current economic challenges. More info: www.motivatorman.com

Come back to the Do Gooder Daily one week from today for Part 2 of 15 Inspiring Movies About Giving.