Four Inspiring TV Shows That Will Motivate You to Follow Your Wildest Dreams
Ever needed a push to chase your wildest dreams? Sometimes, inspiration comes from the most unexpected places - like the TV screen. When you don’t have anyone in your circle chasing their dreams, taking a leap can feel intimidating. But let me share a secret: there’s beauty in that discomfort. Feeling uncomfortable is often a sign of transformation and growth. As Kristin Lohr puts it perfectly:
“Growth is uncomfortable because you’ve never been here before.”
When I first stepped toward the version of myself I am today, I felt unsure about how to begin or whether I was good enough to reach my goals. Yet, I moved forward, driven by passion and inspiration from my favourite TV shows (you’ll see what I mean). When you lack an experienced mentor to guide your journey, it’s completely normal to turn to fictional characters for motivation.
Below is a list of TV shows that will inspire you to chase your wildest dreams, all of which have personally impacted me. Whenever I need a boost of inspiration, I revisit these binge-worthy, career-inspiring series, and now you can too!
1. One Tree Hill
Initially centered on the rivalry between two half-brothers, Lucas (Chad Michael Murray) and Nathan Scott (James Lafferty), competing for a spot on their high school basketball team, One Tree Hill evolves into a narrative about believing in your dreams and embracing the endless possibilities that arise when you do. Whether it’s chasing a passion, overcoming self-doubt, or learning to trust yourself, this show reminds us that our futures are shaped by the choices we make today.
Inspiring Quotes From One Tree Hill:
“I think we got one life, one chance, and what we do with it is up to us.” — Peyton Sawyer
“When you stop fighting, you stop living. We all need that thing that’s worth fighting for. Maybe it’s a certain someone, or a special place, maybe just an idea. So find your fight, and fight like hell, ’til your battle is won.” — Brooke Davis
“So don’t be afraid to make mistakes, to stumble and fall, cause most of the time, the greatest rewards come from doing the things that scare you the most.” — Coach Whitey Durham
Where to Watch One Tree Hill in the UK:
ITV Hub, Sky TV, Amazon Prime & Apple TV
2. The Bold Type
The Bold Type follows three stylish friends - Jane (Katie Stevens), a writer; Kat (Aisha Dee), a social media director; and Sutton (Meghann Fahy), an assistant-turned-stylist - as they navigate their careers at a New York City magazine. Together, they advocate for their beliefs and push each other to take risks. If you’re balancing ambition with uncertainty, this show will remind you to take risks, trust yourself, and chase opportunities - especially the scary ones.
Inspiring Quotes From The Bold Type:
“Keep bringing your passion, it’s how you’re going to make your mark.” – Oliver Grayson
“Looking back, that's exactly why it was the right decision. Because it was the one that scared the shit out of me.” - Jacqueline Carlyle
“Life can change in a flash, so what are we waiting for?” - Jane Sloane
Where to Watch the Bold Type in the UK:
Seasons 1 - 3 are available on Amazon Prime.
3. The Good Wife
Alicia Florrick (Julianna Margulies) returns to her legal career as a litigator after her husband's scandalous downfall. This gripping legal drama explores her journey of empowerment and resilience. Watching Alicia rebuild her career, stand her ground, and navigate personal challenges make The Good Wife a powerful reminder that reinvention is always possible.
Inspiring Quotes From The Good Wife:
“I’m gonna try something I may regret, but at least I’m gonna try it.” - Alicia Florrick
“When the door you have been knocking at finally swings open, you don’t ask why. You run through.” — Diane Lockhart
“You won’t feel like it. But put on nice clothing. Force yourself, too. Not for public. For you.” — Alicia Florrick
Where to Watch the Good Wife in the UK:
Channel 4’s My4, Amazon Prime, Sky TV & Apple TV
For similar shows with strong female leads in the legal/political realm, check out Scandal or How To Get Away With Murder.
4. Ugly Betty
Ugly Betty follows the journey of Betty Suarez (America Ferrera), a bright but unconventional woman navigating the competitive fashion industry with her unique style and determination. Betty’s resilience, work ethic, and ability to stay true to herself - even in a cutthroat environment - makes this show an inspiring watch for anyone charting their own career path.
Best Quote From Ugly Betty:
"A word of advice, be who you are, wear what you want, just learn how to run real fast." - Marc St. James
Where to Watch Ugly Betty in the UK:
Disney Plus, Amazon Prime & Apple TV.
Want More Female-Led Stories?
If you love TV shows that inspire ambition and resilience, you’ll also love this list of must-watch movies about strong women. From real-life trailblazers to fierce fictional heroines, these films celebrate powerful women who challenge the status quo.
And that’s a wrap! Did I miss any career-inspiring TV shows? Let me know which ones have inspired you to follow your wildest dreams in the comments below!
