Inspiration can be found in numerous places, from nature to the media. It can take on many forms, and often translates into a motivated and hard-working individual. Whether you are a product leader or part of the team, product development requires tenacity and a distinctive mindset in order to succeed.
I often find motivation in movies, so I thought I’d share a few of my favorite movie quotes which I think depict the traits of a successful product manager, and also provide a little inspiration.
1. “Don’t ever let someone tell you, you can’t do something. Not even me. You got a dream, you got to protect it. People can’t do something themselves, they want to tell you you can’t do it. You want something, go get it. Period. All right?”
– The Pursuit of Happiness
Product managers are unique and creative individuals who not only oversee the development of a product, but also lead others in the process. They aim high, and set tough goals for themselves. No product manager would succeed if they always listened when they were told their idea was too big.
![PK-02 [DF-09989] - Jaden Christopher Syre Smith (left) and Will Smith star in Columbia PicturesÕ drama The Pursuit of Happyness. Photo Credit: Zade Rosenthal](https://spectechular.walkme.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/the-persuit-of-happiness.jpg)
Photo Credit: Zade Rosenthal
2. “Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming…”
– Finding Nemo
Refusing to give up is an innate trait that doesn’t always come easy to everyone. It takes more than just stubbornness, it takes dedication. By continuing to pursue your goals, regardless of any obstacles that may get in your way, you can be sure you will accomplish the task to the best of your abilities.
3. “Don’t tell me I can’t do it; don’t tell me it can’t be done!”
– The Aviator
Often, product managers have an idea or an innovative new method they want to implement, but receive pushback from their superiors or even their peers. Simply ignoring the negativity and pursuing your idea shows confidence in your own capabilities and knowledge. Many amazing out-of-the-box products are developed this way.
4. “Just because someone stumbles and loses their path, doesn’t mean they’re lost forever.”
–X-Men Days of Future Past
We all make mistakes, no matter how high up you are. It may be something small and easily recoverable, or it could cause a massive setback. Either way, mistakes are essentially unavoidable, the real challenge is how you deal with the aftermath. It’s up to you how detrimental the mistake really is at the end of the day.
5. “Find a truly original idea. It is the only way I will ever distinguish myself. It is the only way I will ever matter.”
–A Beautiful Mind
Originality is often hard to come by these days. Product managers have the advantage of the ability to spearhead a development process, and guide it in the direction they see fit. Incorporating their own ideas and suggesting they have the ability to stand out and present their unique thoughts.
