As entrepreneurs, we often watch movies that inspire and motivate our entrepreneurial spirit. However, when we become parents, our priorities shift, and we spend more time watching children's movies with our kids. What we may not realize is that many of these movies contain valuable lessons that, if highlighted properly, can help our children develop an entrepreneurial and investment mindset from an early age. In my experience as a real estate investor and a father, I've learned that it’s our responsibility not only to enjoy these movies as a family but also to seize the opportunities they present to instill values of entrepreneurship and long-term vision in our children. Take, for example, the movie Cheaper by the Dozen starring Steve Martin. While it’s a family comedy focused on the antics and challenges of a large family, there’s a moment that stands out for any real estate investor. The antagonist of the Baker family mentions that he has bought several properties around a lake to secure his family’s financial future. This is a perfect example of how we can use a simple line of dialogue to teach our children about the importance of real estate investment and wealth creation. We can ask them questions like, “Why do you think it’s important to buy properties?” or “How do you think this investment will help his family in the future?” Another movie that provides an invaluable lesson is Pixar’s Up. In the story, the protagonist, an elderly man named Carl Fredricksen, refuses to sell his house to a real estate developer, preferring to hold on to the memories of his late wife. However, in real life, similar situations often result in a sale at a significantly elevated price, especially when the property is crucial for a real estate development. Here, we can teach our children about the power of location in real estate investment and how to spot opportunities in the market. Even in movies like Finding Nemo, where the plot centers on a father’s adventure to find his son, we can find lessons for our children. We can explain how the father, Marlin, makes smart decisions to secure a safe and stable home for his family, such as purchasing a condo with ocean views. This is a great opportunity to talk about the importance of wisely choosing real estate investments that offer security and long-term appreciation. In conclusion, the investor who becomes a millionaire is almost always the happy character in the movie. As parents and as investors, we have the responsibility to show our children how smart financial decisions can lead to a full and secure life. Let’s take every opportunity, even in children's movies, to foster in them an entrepreneurial and innovative mindset that prepares them for a bright future. At the end of the day, we’re not just raising our children, we’re shaping the future entrepreneurs and investors of tomorrow. And what better way to do that than through the stories we all enjoy together as a family? This article is designed to appeal to readers interested in real estate investment, particularly those who are also parents and are looking for creative ways to instill financial and entrepreneurial values in their children.
Eduardo Berjano, Founder of Real Estate Experts