On Your Path to Self-Growth? Watch These 5 Netflix Movies

Your role as a VA is not just supporting others; you're also building your own path to success, and sometimes, the best inspiration comes from unexpected places: movies.

If you're looking for films that offer more than just entertainment, here are five powerful suggestions that speak to the heart of personal development, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of self-cultivation. 

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

As a VA, you may often face moments of self-doubt and the temptation to quit when things get tough. But Chris Gardner's (Will Smith) journey teaches you that every setback is a setup for a comeback. This biographical drama tells the story of battling homelessness and financial hardship while trying to land a job as a stockbroker. It’s a story about fighting through adversity, learning from mistakes, and embracing each day with relentless hope.

2. Penguin Bloom (2020)

Pursuit of self-growth often involves overcoming your own personal challenges, whether big or small. Penguin Bloom is a heartwarming reminder that even in the darkest times, the ability to adapt, rebuild, and find meaning can lead to profound transformation. Inspired by a true story, this movie follows the life of a mother (played by Naomi Watts) who faces the aftermath of a tragic accident that leaves her paralyzed. Amidst her struggle, she forms an unlikely bond with a magpie named Penguin, which becomes a symbol of hope and recovery.

3. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)

Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba, a young boy from Malawi who used his ingenuity to build a wind turbine to save his family from famine, this movie is a stunning example of the power of self-education, innovation, and determination. In a world full of challenges, resourcefulness and curiosity are some of the best tools at your disposal. 

4. Tick, Tick...Boom! (2021)

This film is a tribute to the grind of building your career and the sacrifices you sometimes need to make. This movie tells the story of the visionary behind Rent, Jonathan Larson (played by Andrew Garfield), as he struggles with his personal and professional challenges in the lead-up to his 30th birthday. Larson is an artist at a crossroads, wrestling with the fear that his dreams may never come to fruition.

5. Unbroken (2014)

This is a masterclass in mental strength and perseverance. Unbroken is the extraordinary true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete and World War II bombardier who survives a plane crash, drifting at sea for over a month, and enduring years of brutal captivity as a POW. Directed by Angelina Jolie, this film is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to survive and thrive under the most excruciating circumstances.

These films, full of heart, resilience, and unflinching self-growth, will not only inspire you but remind you that your journey, no matter how challenging, is one worth embracing.