Philosophers, scientists, leaders, artists — all of these and more have spoken words that echo through the years. Whether we’re looking for encouragement or the strength to get through a tough day, the right advice can make all the difference. Of course, some words have more staying power than others, whether due to the inspiring figure behind them or how deeply they resonate with us on a personal level.
Though the internet has made it easier to stumble on quotes that are inaccurate, misattributed, or just plain made-up, the quotes gathered here are verified morsels of wisdom that have survived the test of time. Savor each piece of insight, and see which ones stay with you.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.Lao Tzu
The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.Franklin D. Roosevelt
There are always flowers for those who want to see them.Henri Matisse
You must do the thing you think you cannot do.Eleanor Roosevelt
Well-behaved women seldom make history.Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.Wayne Gretzky
The time is always ripe to do right.Martin Luther King Jr.
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.W.E. Hickson
Whatever you are, try to be a good one.William Makepeace Thackeray
That which does not kill us makes us stronger.Friedrich Nietzsche
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.Helen Keller
You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.Maya Angelou
Action is the antidote to despair.Joan Baez
Speak your mind — even if your voice shakes.Maggie Kuhn
The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.Dolly Parton
The most difficult thing is the decision to act. The rest is merely tenacity.Amelia Earhart
Fear is stupid. So are regrets.Marilyn Monroe
Every moment is a fresh beginning.T.S. Eliot
Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.Steve Jobs
Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.Thomas Edison
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