“Throughout history, countless brilliant minds (and even some not so brilliant) have shared words that have deeply touched my soul time and time again. Quotes possess the incredible power to uplift, inspire, guide, and heal, especially on those challenging days when life doesn’t unfold as we had envisioned.”

Today is an absolutely perfect day, marking the beginning of a new week, and I am grateful as I share with you ten of the most beloved quotes that hold a special place in my heart. These wise words resonate with me deeply, and it is my hope that as you read through them, you will feel inspired to truly embrace the beauty in every day, every situation, and every aspect of life.

A ship in harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for.

-John A. Shedd

I often find myself feeling content with my life as it is, but deep down I know I was meant for greater things. Embracing risk is a natural part of life, and the potential rewards make it all worthwhile.

If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him.

-Mahatma Gandhi

The quote I most often cite is “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” commonly attributed to Gandhi, although there is no concrete evidence that he actually spoke these exact words. This is the quote I frequently mention in connection with the popular shortened version I love.

On those days when nobody wants to know you,
And all your smiles keep falling on stoney ground.
Don’t stop believin’, you’ll get by,
Bad days, bad days will hurry by.

-Olivia Newton-John

Such simple and positive words. Many people get caught up in the moment and fail to recognize that even good people face challenges. Those who embrace resilience understand that all emotions and situations are only temporary.

Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.

-Henry Ford

Confidence and the determination to explore new opportunities are powerful assets that are often overlooked. You might excel as a pianist, but you could also have a natural talent for repairing cars. Only by challenging yourself and stepping outside of your comfort zone will you uncover new abilities and interests.

That which does not kill us make us stronger.

-Friedrich Nietzsche (and Kelly Clarkson)

One more inspiring quote that reflects resilience in challenging situations (similar to this favorite) is the following: “You might receive unfavorable circumstances, but how you interpret the experience defines your true strength. I maintain an optimistic outlook on life, believing that adversities can reveal your inner fortitude.”

Where your treasure lies, there will your heart be also.

-Matthew 6:21

To be in the world but not of it can be very challenging. I think this verse speaks to me on contentment and knowing what is important to you, while rooting out support for those things in life that only spur negatively in your life. Put your money where your heart is in other words.

Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.

-Winston Churchill

I’m a sucker for quotes that deal with success in work as well as in life. “Without failure, we wouldn’t know the joy of our successes.” This statement encapsulates the essence of resilience and the value of setbacks in the journey towards achieving our goals. It reflects the idea that failure is not a definitive endpoint, but rather a steppingstone on the path to success.

You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

-Wayne Gretzky

Having always been a “glass is half full” kind of guy, Gretzky’s simple statement about not resting on your laurels and never underestimating your own worth and capability is gold.

The only thing we have to fear, is fear itself.

-Franklin D. Roosevelt

Fear of failure often seems to have a widespread effect on individuals. In school, many children choose to sit in the middle of the classroom to steer clear of being in the spotlight, while also avoiding potential embarrassment associated with sitting in the back row. Similarly, as adults, we may avoid making direct eye contact to sidestep uncomfortable questions for which we may not have an immediate answer due to lack of experience. It’s important to remember that while fear can be a powerful force, once we overcome it, the possibilities for the future become boundless.

I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s all going to turn out all right.

-Billy Graham

As a person of faith, I firmly believe that salvation is an invaluable gift that requires nothing more than my unwavering belief in a higher power, something beyond the realm of science and tangible evidence. It is grace that I humbly embrace with all my heart.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

Surely you have a go-to list of your favorite quotes. Add them to our list with a comment!