This post was originally posted on Blogger August 9, 2024.
"Monsters, Inc.", released in 2001, is a cute and funny animated film that has appealed to the hearts of audiences of all ages. Beyond its entertaining story and lovable characters, the movie offers some valuable lessons that can be applied to our own lives. Here are 7 of the key takeaways I took from this Pixar classic.
- Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover
The film challenges the notion of judging others based on their appearance. Monsters, initially portrayed as fearsome creatures, are revealed to be complex individuals with their own dreams, fears, and vulnerabilities. Similarly, we should avoid making assumptions about people based on stereotypes or first impressions. Everyone has a story worth discovering. I take this lesson to heart, as I have been judged and stereotyped multiple times by people who don’t know me, but think they know all about me. When the kids were in elementary school in North Vancouver, someone started a rumor that I was a drug addict, and abusing my medications. That could not have been further from the truth. The sad part was, that year my kids didn’t get one birthday party invite or asked for any playdates. We were like the plague, and only 2 people would still talk to me. People we asked to hang out would make up excuses. It really affected us and impacted the kids. They felt that, and it’s really disgusting how those parents behaved towards us without knowing any of the facts.
- Embrace Change
The Monsters, Inc. company undergoes a significant transformation as they realize that laughter is a far more powerful energy source than screams. This highlights the importance of adapting to change and embracing new ideas. Progress often requires stepping outside of our comfort zones and challenging the status quo. This is so true. When you have an accident that pulls the rug right out from under you, disappearing your life as you know it, you need to learn how to adapt. Adapt to your physical and mental capabilities, adapt to managing multiple health care appointments, and adapt to your new brain and body.
- The Power of Friendship
The bond between Sulley and Mike demonstrates the strength and importance of true friendship. They support each other through thick and thin, even when faced with adversity. Cultivating meaningful relationships can provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and encouragement. I met my bestie Allison in 2010 shortly after a very close friend passed away from breast cancer. It was nice to click with someone so quickly and so well and we became besties pretty quickly. We lived under Allison in the same complex and it was nice to have a friend so close by. This developed into us buying a property here together and building a cottage for Allison and her husband Christian.
- Overcoming Fear
Boo, a human child, initially represents a source of fear for the monsters. However, as they get to know her, they realize that their fear was unfounded. This teaches us that fear often stems from the unknown. By facing our fears and seeking understanding, we can overcome them and discover new possibilities. I have been working on facing some of my fears, like talking on the telephone, being in busy places and settings, and my medical and physical trauma PTSD. Slowly I am able to do a little more than I could the week before. By taking things slow using small steps repeatedly over time, my progress is destined to last longer and become more stable.
- Laughter is the Best Medicine
The movie emphasizes the transformative power of laughter. It has the ability to heal, connect, and bring joy to our lives. We should embrace laughter and find humor in even the most challenging situations. When you don’t feel good though, you don’t really feel like laughing all that much, and it’s important to seek out humor that does actually get you laughing. Even better if it’s with people you like.
- The Importance of Integrity
Sulley and Mike ultimately choose to do the right thing, even when it means exposing the corrupt practices within their company. This underscores the importance of acting with integrity and standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. I have had multiple occasions in my life where I have stepped up despite difficulties, and I have also had multiple occasions in my life where I should have stepped up but didn’t. It honestly depends how much emotional bandwidth I have, and these days, I am embarrassed to admit is not much. I don’t have the mental energy to take on the global issues of today, so I do what I can in my little corner of the world.
- Everyone Deserves Kindness
Boo, despite being from a different world, is treated with kindness and compassion by Sulley and Mike. This reminds us that everyone, regardless of their background or differences, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. This also brings me back to the rumor that I was a drug addict and misusing my meds while the kids were at elementary school. A LOT of parents were rude and mean to me, and felt justified in being rude and mean. They felt it was ok to take it out on my kids, when they should have been left out of it. Both kids remember that year, and it really affected their self esteem and self worth. They thought they did something wrong. It broke my heart.
Conclusion
"Monsters, Inc." is not just a children's movie; it is a story with timeless lessons that can resonate with people of all ages. By embracing these takeaways, we can cultivate a more compassionate, open-minded, and joyful approach to life. So, next time you watch this heartwarming film, remember the valuable wisdom it imparts and strive to incorporate it into your own journey.