If you are like me, then you enjoy all kinds of movies. From classics like It’s A Wonderful Life or Shawshank Redemption, to quirky movies like The Intouchables or Captain Fantastic.

Occasionally I use movies as a tool for clients to make sense of their emotional experience. Inside Out has been particularly useful, as clients often connect with and find comfort in the struggles of the characters. I do this too. I feel inspired watching my favorite characters finally overcome adversity.

I started thinking, “Can a story be satisfying without a struggle?” Imagine if your favorite hero never made any mistakes, or faced any challenges. That doesn’t sound like a very exciting movie to watch. When a story inspires, the biggest struggle often makes for the most satisfying ending.

I invite you to get curious, and think of a character that inspires you. Remember what they did to overcome their struggle.

Did they take a risk and follow their passion? Were they able to push through the pain somehow? Did they ask for help or get support from others? What else did they do that helped them get through? How were they better as a result or their struggle? Lastly, could you bring that approach into your life? If so, how?

If you have ever seen any of the Rocky movies, you know that there is always a training montage leading up to the big fight. Perhaps you are getting ready to face your struggle, and you could use a theme song. If it’s not clear how to get through your current struggle or you need more than a theme song, then finding a trained therapist to guide and support could be the first step toward facing and persevering through your struggle.

Dustin Ellis, CIT