Seize the Day, Soul-Style: Lessons from Disney’s “Soul”

Disney’s hit movie “Soul” captivated audiences with its heartwarming and thought-provoking story about life, purpose, and passion. At its core, the film reminds us of the importance of living our best lives every day, because time is a precious gift that we cannot take for granted. So, grab your favorite jazz record (or any genre that tickles your fancy) and join us as we explore how to make the most of every moment, drawing inspiration from the animated world of “Soul.”

Lesson #1: Find Your Spark

In “Soul,” the main character, Joe Gardner, discovers that every soul has a unique spark – that special something that ignites our passion for life. To live your best life, it’s essential to identify your own spark. What sets your soul ablaze? What are you most passionate about? Once you’ve found your spark, you can start pursuing it with vigor and enthusiasm, living each day with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Lesson #2: Embrace the Small Moments

While chasing our dreams and passions is important, “Soul” teaches us that the small, seemingly insignificant moments are just as valuable. Life is a tapestry of simple pleasures, like the taste of your favorite meal, the warmth of the sun on your face, or the laughter of a loved one. Don’t forget to cherish these moments as they come, because they are the building blocks of a life well-lived.

Lesson #3: Keep Growing and Learning

Joe Gardner’s journey in “Soul” demonstrates the importance of continual growth and learning. No matter where you are in life, there is always room for improvement and new experiences. Embrace the opportunity to learn from your mistakes, try new things, and grow as a person. This commitment to self-improvement will enrich your life and help you make the most of each day.

Lesson #4: Connect with Others

In the movie, Joe’s connections with other souls, both in the Great Before and on Earth, play a crucial role in his journey of self-discovery. Similarly, fostering meaningful relationships with the people around us can greatly enhance our lives. Make time to connect with family, friends, and even strangers, because these connections will not only bring joy and support but also provide new perspectives that can help you grow.

Lesson #5: Don’t Get Lost in the Pursuit of Success

“Soul” illustrates the danger of becoming too consumed by our goals and ambitions. In Joe’s case, his singular focus on his music career blinds him to the beauty of the world around him. While it’s important to chase our dreams, we must not lose sight of the bigger picture. Strive for balance in your life, and remember to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Disney’s “Soul” offers a poignant reminder to seize every day and make the most of our time on Earth. By finding our spark, embracing the small moments, fostering connections, and maintaining balance in our lives, we can truly live our best lives. So, take a cue from Joe Gardner and his soulful journey, and remember to live each day with passion, purpose, and gratitude – after all, the clock is ticking!

More Life Lessons from Our Animated Friends

Reflections on Life: A Letter From My 90 Year Old Self

Dear Self,

As I reflect back on my life, I realize that there were so many things that I worried about that, in the end, really didn’t matter. So many things that I focused on that took my attention away from what was truly important. As you sit here now, at 90 years old, I want to share with you some of the things that I have learned about what truly matters in life, and how to achieve the balance that you are looking for.

First and foremost, what matters most in life is the people that you love. The relationships that you have with your family and friends are what truly make life worth living. Take the time to cherish these relationships, and always make sure to let those around you know how much you love and appreciate them.

Secondly, don’t take life too seriously. There will be ups and downs, but at the end of the day, life is meant to be enjoyed. Take time to laugh, to enjoy the simple things, and to appreciate the beauty in the world around you.

Thirdly, always take care of yourself. You only get one body, and it is important to treat it well. Eat well and stay active. Take care of not only your physical health, but also your mental health. This will allow you to enjoy life to the fullest.

Lastly, don’t wait to live the life that you want. It is never too late to pursue your dreams, to try something new, or to take a chance. Life is too short to live with regret, so always be true to yourself, and never be afraid to take a risk.

As I look back on my life, I realize that achieving balance was not always easy. But I also know that it is never too late to make changes, to focus on what truly matters, and to create a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. So my advice to you, my dear self, is to always remember what truly matters in life, and to strive to live a life that is full of love, laughter, and happiness.

With love,

Your 90-year-old self