Kung Fu Panda and Personal Finance

We have a tradition in our family on Friday which is family movie night. This typically involves some form of cartoon (not always) and most recently we watched all 4 of the Kung Fu Panda movies. One we rented (thanks Amazon Prime), the other was on a streaming service we utilize, and the other 2 we rented from the local library (a huge blessing).

The main character, Po, is a panda on a journey to find himself. He learns discipline, mastery, and character evolution. He has a guide (Master Shifu) who shows him Po's true potential. each movie has its own distinct villain: the villain in the original Kung Fu Panda was Tai Lung, the second movie was Lord Shen, the 3rd movie was General Kai, and the 4th movie was The Chameleon. Each one of these formidable opponents challenged Po greatly. His skill was tested along with his mindset.

So, what was the epiphany I drew out of watching these comical animation films, you ask? I noticed a theme with each movie. The main character is on a journey to find out who the dragon warrior is and what the dragon warrior represents. Po is in disbelief when the honor is bestowed upon him. He searches for clues and validation from his peers and doesn't receive it from them. What he discovers is that the secret to being awesome is to be who you are, not someone else. You learn new skills, read books, and study (like a lifelong learner), and soon you can start teaching others.

I joked with my wife the other day about Po being my spirit animal. Many times in my life I have felt disbelief in my capabilities. I doubted my worth. After offering coaching services I would occasionally pray that the people across from me would say no. That fear has subsided. I know my worth. I know what I bring to the table. I work with couples (and individuals) who want to transform their money habits, mindset, and relationships so that they can live stronger, richer lives. Those that want to change the world through their saving, spending, investing, and giving. The types of people I want to work with are driven, goal-oriented, and passionate, yet they feel stuck in their situation.

Po walked around feeling lost and confused. Every time he was faced with a challenge he didn't think he could overcome, he had a talk with his guide, Master Shifu, who spoke wisdom into his life. Master Shifu did not fight Po's battles, but Po found the courage from within to believe he could win. Every single ending proved Po had what it took to be successful.

If you find yourself lost and confused about your money, seek out a guide / coach. We all have different journeys and yet the stories of each coach may reshape your future. It took Po courage to admit he didn't know anything about Kung Fu. Then, he became a master of Kung Fu. After that? He taught others to be true to themselves and then taught them Kung Fu.

Are you ready to start your own hero's journey? If so, I would like to invite you into a powerful coaching conversation so you can experience what it is like to be heard, to be boldly honest and deeply vulnerable. Book your call today. Your positive financial future is waiting.