Movie Quotes for Successful Professionals

Movies are fun, informative, entertaining, uplifting, and thought provoking. I’ve been a movie buff my entire life. Mom took me and my sister to see movies like Bambi, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and Benji. Dad took me to my first grownup movie, Airport 1975, when I was twelve years old. My life has been influenced by hundreds of hours of movies including memorable movie quotes that apply to business, leadership, and life.

“I love it when a plan comes together.” It feels great to reach a milestone, accomplish a goal, or finish a project. The bigger the objective the better sweet taste of success. (Yes, this quote is from a movie based on a television show.)

“A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.” Play and have fun as hard as you work, study, and take care of your family. Everyone needs and deserves down time. Make it a priority as much as all the other aspects of your life.

“I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse.” Negotiating is part of life and business. From contracts at work to asking that nice person out on a date, we’re looking to get things done. Sometimes the best thing to do is present your offer and tell them it really is your best offer. If you’ve done it correctly, it’s something they couldn’t refuse. (NOTE: Be one hundred percent sure that it really is your best offer. The second is to be ready to walk away from the deal. Any changes would be evidence you weren’t honest.)

“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn.” While I’ve never seen Gone with the Wind, this line caused a ripple to go around the world when it was released. It’s also the perfect quote for when the naysayer in your life gets in your face with their negative opinion. Keep your spirit high by keeping the cranky people away.

“Take your stinking paws off me, you damned dirty ape.” This has actually been said by the coffee pot as I pour my tenth cup. Periodic breaks throughout the day improves productivity, focus, and gives your body an energy boost. Coffee drinking is optional.

“You’re gonna need a bigger boat.” Like Sheriff Brody, you recognize there’s a problem. You analyzed options and decided on the best solution. Hope your problems never involve sharks.

“I ain’t got time to bleed.” A famous quote we use with tight deadlines, overlapping projects, or had bad time management. Been there done that with all three situations. Delegate when possible; otherwise, keep making progress. Remember the situation to avoid it in the future.

“I see dead people.” Happens when a meeting lacks a clear purpose. The other is when a meeting drags simply to fill time. Plan, prepare, and run effective meetings to avoid this.

“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.” This quote is a perfect example of how to introduce yourself at networking or other events. You give a greeting and tell your name. Make a personal connection with the other person. Explain your motives for the discussion. NOTE: this is another movie I hadn’t seen (don’t judge).

“You have a bazooka! Dude, stop thinking Prague Police and start thinking PlayStation. Blow shit up!” A favorite quote of gamers from Xander “XXX” Cage. For non-gamers, this is the modern version of “think outside the box.”

“It’s good to be the king.” Celebrate the good things that happen! Many tend to focus on bad incidents or what we don’t have. Every day has moments of joy and happiness and wonderful people. Put energy into remembering that to feel like royalty.

Inspiration, knowledge, and wisdom can be found every day even in silly places, like movies. As Louis Pastor said, “Chance favors a prepared mind.”

Are you prepared?