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We all know the importance of words and their pivotal role in our daily lives. Words dramatically affect how we interact with people in all spheres of our lives and how decisions are made. Words of wisdom or powerful quotes from the world’s wisest thinkers can not only inspire us to create a positive outlook in life and other spheres but they also motivate us to be wiser, humble, and kind. Powerful quotes are timeless; they help us steer in the right direction. And their power is immense.
Although the world continues to change every day, some of the most powerful quotes remain eternal. Here are the 25 most powerful quotes in the world that will inspire you. These quotes have often been considered the best quotes of all time. While there are more than 25 powerful quotes, these are chosen because of their sheer importance in our lives.
1. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Unknown
We have all heard this more than once, in fact. Although this quote has been attributed to the legendary Mahatma Gandhi, there is research available that says otherwise. For a long time, I believed that Mahatma Gandhi really said this until a few years ago when that myth broke. Gandhi authored a passage in a 1913 journal article for Indian Opinion, which resembles the aforementioned quote.
“We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. 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. This is the divine mystery supreme. A wonderful thing it is and the source of our happiness. We need not wait to see what others do.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
The originally stated quote is a powerful one with a profound impact. It serves as a potent reminder that every one of us can create positive and lasting change in our lives and our surroundings. Both quotes impart a pearl of great wisdom and echo an empowering reminder that we have the power to make a difference instead of waiting for the world to change.
2. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu
Attributed to the Chinese philosopher, this powerful quote encapsulated every aspect of life. It serves as an inspiring reminder that no matter the obstacles that lie ahead, it is important to take the first step in any journey. The quote also highlights the importance of taking things one at a time. Regardless of how often you have failed, the first step is never to stop trying.
We have some great examples of that, like Stephen King, who received about 60 rejections before publishing his first short story, “The Glass Floor.” JK Rowling was turned down 12 times by several publishers before publishing the first Harry Potter book, and the pioneer of the American animation industry, Walt Disney, was rejected more than 300 times before his beloved character Mickey Mouse became an overpowering success. Now imagine if all these famous people gave up!
3. “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” – Unknown
Again, a famous quote that is often attributed to one of the greatest and influential scientists of all time, Albert Einstein is actually not his quote. Regardless of that, it does not change the fact that this quote is very inspiring. What it means is that every one of us has different abilities and we cannot judge everyone on the same scale. The parameters for judgment must not be the same for everyone, rather every individual can be judged (if at all) to the best of their abilities.
4. “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein’s quote is insightful and relevant to everyone. He reminds us that every experience we encounter helps us grow and learn, including our mistakes. Instead of feeling ashamed, we should embrace them as evidence of our willingness to try new things and improve. Therefore, let us learn from our mistakes, strive for greatness, and continue to grow. The important thing is never to stop questioning and never let our curiosity die, no matter what.
5. “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
The quote, attributed to the German Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, is one of the most famous quotes about life. It means that difficult experiences are invaluable opportunities for personal growth and development. They may seem arduous, but they are essential for enhancing our ability to handle future obstacles with resilience. Facing adversity helps build confidence and can help us better handle whatever life throws our way.
6. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States, this quote applies to all spheres of life. Roosevelt suggested that you must have a clear vision and self-belief to achieve success. Stay persistent and confident, even when the odds are not favorable. Focus on your goals every day, no matter how small the steps. At the end of the day, success is a journey, so enjoy the ride and keep pushing forward.
7. “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” – Joe Kennedy, Billy Ocean
A very popular American English proverb is often attributed to Joseph P. Kennedy, Former United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom and John F. Kennedy’s father and the American coach K. Rockne, and was also popularized by Billy Ocean’s homonymous song.
8. “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” – Confucius
Isn’t it quite simple yet a striking quote? If you take a moment to think deeply, you will realize that life is not complicated but simple. It is us who try to make things complex by chasing perfection. Most times, it is the way we think that makes things overwhelming, and it is our overthinking that can often lead to complications. And let’s be honest, none of us really want our lives to be complex. In fact, if given a chance at a simple life, we would take it in a heartbeat.
9. “Fight for the things that you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, was known for her trailblazing efforts against discrimination and women’s rights and has many powerful quotes attributed to her. But this one is something incredibly moving and so significant. She blazed a brave path for women–not just in the judiciary, not just in the United States–but for women in the entire world. Initially, she fought hard and alone because she had the courage to stand for her beliefs and voice them despite dissent. She held herself in power, and that little personal power that she had in the beginning ultimately helped her redefine power.
10. “We are what we think, all that we are arises with our thoughts, with our thoughts we make the world.” – Lord Buddha
It means that our thoughts hold a very significant position in our lives. We are shaped by our thoughts, and they have a wider sphere of influence. Our thoughts do not just hold the power to influence our mood and behavior but also impact our actions.
11. “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” – Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln and countless others have used some variation of this quote. The world today is unknowable, and life has always been unpredictable. But the best way to predict our future is to work towards it and be an active participant. It is crucial to have a clear vision of our goals and the actions required to achieve them, as this helps guide our future.
12. “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn
Having meaningful relationships with others is one of the most invaluable things in life. It helps us navigate through both the good and tough times. Whether we are celebrating a milestone or facing a difficult challenge, having someone to lean on can make all the difference. That is why it is important to cherish these significant connections because, ultimately, they are the ones we are left with. And that is a beautiful thing to have.
13. “Cogito, ergo sum (I think, therefore I am).” – René Descartes
The phrase “Cogito, ergo sum” or “I think, therefore I am” never ceases to fascinate me. This insightful statement was originally coined by the French mathematician and philosopher René Descartes. As his first step in demonstrating the attainability of certain knowledge, this phrase is the only one that survived the test of his methodic doubt. Undoubtedly, it highlights the immense power of human thought and consciousness. It is impossible to doubt the existence of one’s own thoughts because, in the process or act of doubt, you are indeed thinking.
14. “The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.” – Ernest Hemingway
The world can be challenging and unyielding, and it is undeniable that everyone will encounter their own difficulties and agony. Nonetheless, it is our reaction to those difficulties that genuinely characterizes us. Certain individuals are resilient and emerge from their confrontations even more firmly, discovering new strengths and perseverance in their shattered pieces. It is a compelling prompt that even when confronted with hardship, we possess the courage to face those difficulties and emerge victorious.
15. “‘Tis better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all.” – Lord Alrfed Tennyson
Love is raw, it is enthralling, and it is everything you want it to be. It is perhaps one of the most powerful emotions ever known to humanity. But more often than not, expressing our love for the other person becomes a tad bit difficult. We end up having many thoughts, often unnecessary. So, how do you tell someone you love them? You just tell them. Forget about the rules, the judgment, or the fear of looking ridiculous. What is truly ridiculous is not having to tell the other person that your life is better with their presence. Don’t let go of the opportunity to tell someone that your heart is invested. Tell them even if you are scared. The pain of loss does not outweigh the immense gratification of love.
16. “Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.” – Lord Buddha
Lord Buddha’s concept of “truth” refers to the lifestyle of an individual who has achieved complete enlightenment and realization. Similar to how the radiance of the sun and moon cannot be concealed, the teachings of an enlightened individual will eventually illuminate like a guiding light visible to all. The quote is insightful. It prompts me to reflect on the value of honesty and the inevitable exposure of the truth. It is imperative.
17. “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde
Remember, you are in charge of your life. You do not have to live anyone else’s life but your own. It is important to focus on your own path and not worry about meeting other people’s expectations. Your unique talents and qualities make you who you are, so take the time to discover them and use them to create something special. Do not be afraid to take risks and try new things. You might be surprised by what you can achieve. Stay true to yourself and create a life that brings you the happiness and satisfaction that you want.
18. “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
This quote is a powerful reminder that many things in life may seem unattainable until we actually achieve them. It emphasizes the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself. This quote is often used to encourage people to pursue their dreams, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Despite obstacles, we have the ability to achieve our goals. We must have faith in ourselves and persist in our endeavors, regardless of the circumstances.
19. “If you want to be happy, be.” – Leo Tolstoy
This quote by Leo Tolstoy, one of the greatest authors of all time, is a powerful reminder that if you want to be happy, you can be happy. You do not have to depend on external factors to be happy. Happiness starts within.
20. “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be. “ – Ralph Waldo Emerson
It means that who we become is up to us. It all depends on the choices we make each day. Our choices shape our lives. Make positive ones to become the person you want to be. Acknowledging that our lives are not determined by fate or external factors is crucial. Although our upbringing, social status, or genetics may affect our circumstances, they do not control our future. We hold the power to make choices that shape our lives and determine our destiny.
21. “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou
Famous American poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou said many wonderful inspirational quotes. This one probably stands very firmly on the top. It means that the best of our abilities may not be the perfect way to do something, but if we keep trying, do not give up, and continue to learn from our mistakes, we will be able to do it better. Practice helps you improve, even if you are not perfect at first.
22. “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
One of the greatest hockey players of all time, Wayne Gretzky’s quote resonates with me very deeply. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of taking action to achieve our goals. Taking a chance and failing is still better than taking no chance at all. This quote reminds us that we cannot hit a target if we do not aim for it.
23. “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot
This beautiful quote by renowned novelist George Eliot, one of the leading writers of the Victorian era, is timeless. It reminds us that age or circumstances do not limit personal transformation and fulfillment. You are never too old to change your ways. And there is no age for learning. It is always possible. So, fight for the life you want.
24. “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” – Mae West
This quote is a valid one, absent of any innuendo that is often associated with Mae West. We only live once, as far as our present consciousness knows. And that is enough if we succeed in living our life the right way.
25. “In the end, you’re just happy you were there- with your eyes open- and lived to see it.” – Anthony Bourdain
Anthony Bourdain was one of those rare souls that come once in a while. He had many unique and inspirational quotes attributed to him over the course of his life. At the end of life, in those final moments, we will need to be happy knowing that we got to see it all. A very powerful quote, indeed.
Bonus: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” ― Albus Dumbledore
In the ever-captivating world of Harry Potter, Albus Dumbledore, the enigmatic and wise headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, delivers several profound insights and quotes throughout the series. One such quote is the aforementioned one, which he says to Harry in the third installment of the series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
This seemingly straightforward quote has a profound and visceral philosophical effect. At its core, this quote urges us to seek happiness. It means that no matter how deeply we may feel pain or grief, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. It reminds us that perspective matters, and only we have the power to change our perspective and find solace and happiness in little things that await us if only we choose to recognize them.
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