How do you feel about motivational videos? You may think that they’re nothing more than glorified, digital pep rallies where overly optimistic people preach empty words of success, victory, and ultimately happiness. And to some extent, you may be right.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of anything that is meant to artificially boost your emotions, your sense of worth, your self-esteem, or anything else. Many motivational speakers give off a manipulative vibe, which often detracts from their message – and often times, motivational videos are no better. However, it can be good to listen to something that’s meant to inspire you. Inspiration and motivation can be elusive, and sometimes you need help finding them. Some people look to inspirational quotes while others resort to motivational web sites and services – especially when it comes to fitness motivation. Maybe for you, videos are what you need.

Here are a collection of YouTube videos that will give you the kick-up-the-butt you so desperately need. Even if motivational and inspirational videos aren’t your cup of tea, try watching these videos at least once. They’re short enough that even if you end up disliking them, you won’t feel like you’ve wasted your time.

“Closers”

Warning: NSFW language!

This video is not meant to be an inspirational one, but it sure gets its point across. In this movie, Glengarry Glen Ross, Alec Baldwin delivers one of the finest acting performances of his entire career. Not only is his acting superb, it tugs at your chest and pulls you into his story.

Even though this clip is 7 minutes long, I highly recommend that everyone watch it. Not that I agree with most of what is said, but this is motivation at its best.

“Life = Risk”

Motivation is often killed by a fear of failure. Are you paralyzed because you’re afraid to fail? Well, this video should give you a much needed boost of confidence.

Spoiler: Failure ain’t a bad thing.

“How Bad Do You Want It?”

The speech in this video was made by Eric Thomas, who is also known as the Hip Hop Preacher. Although the main figure in the video is a running back named Giavanni Ruffin, the message applies to more than just sports.

To quote Thomas, “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful.”

“Pain Is Temporary”

From Eric Thomas, the Hip Hop Preacher, comes another inspiring message about pain, perseverance, and endurance. It seems appropriate to plug in some of the most clichéd phrases here, such as, “No pain, no gain.” Or even, “Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

“You’re Better Than That”

Sylvester Stallone delivers a great speech in Rocky VI as Rocky Balboa speaking words of wisdom to his son. What’s his message? Success isn’t determined by how smart or talented or skilled you are; success is determined by how hard you can persevere through challenges.

On an unrelated note, the kinetic typography adds a great touch.

“Life Is a Game of Inches”

Warning: NSFW language!

Another movie makes it onto this list: Any Given Sunday. In this movie, Al Pacino is a football coach who delivers a motivating speech to his falling-apart team. Life is like a football game – or maybe football is like life. Either way, the words here are moving and powerful.

“No Excuses”

Here’s a video from Nike that strikes at one of the most prevalent causes of failure: making excuses. Wait for the twist ending. That one caught me by surprise.

“Go Get It”

In the movie Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith’s character speaks a few words of encouragement to his son with regard to pursuing a goal. This line in particular kills me – “people can’t do something themselves, they want to tell you you can’t do it.”

These are by no means the absolute best motivational videos out there. If you know of any other videos that are worth sharing, please feel free in the comments! If these videos didn’t move you at all, perhaps motivational videos just aren’t your thing – and there’s nothing wrong with that.  In that case, what does motivate you?

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