Surprising Inspirational Famous Quotes From Historical Figures

Inspirational quotes and sayings can come from any form of life. Whether it’s a celebrity, a philosopher or an artist, the wise words and thought-provoking advice shared can provide a source of motivation and perspective. Even more meaningful are the words of historical figures and how they’ve stood the test of time. Ready to be motivated? Here are some surprising quotes from famous historical figures that have inspired us all.

Let’s start with a famous leader – Marcus Tullius Cicero – a Roman philosopher and politician, who said: “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” We all want an amazing house and fancy items, however, this simple quote brings back to the basics and makes us appreciate the little things in life. This classic and true words remind us the importance of things like reading and nature to our lives.

Lao Tzu, the Chinese philosopher, said “Going with the flow brings good luck.” This famous quote is all about learning to go with the flow of life and not to resist it. To accept the things you cannot control and to focus on the things you can instead. We often find ourselves going against the flow, however, if we embrace this wisdom and accept it, things might be easier.

Quotes from Great Scientists

Leonardo da Vinci, the famous Renaissance artist and scientist, said “The noblest pleasure is the joy of understanding.” This beautiful quote encourages us to keep learning and to remember the satisfaction and pleasure of understanding something new. It also reminds us that knowledge and learning are more important than mere physical pleasures.

Albert Einstein, the father of modern physics, stated: “It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.” This quote means that the key to success is not only intelligence, but perseverance and dedication. It’s a valuable reminder for all of us that hard work and consistency pay off – a classic “no pain, no gain” proverb!

Quotes from Creative Minds

William Shakespeare, the most famous English playwright, expressed that “We know what we are, but know not what we may be.” This quote shows the beauty of potential and how anything is possible. The uncertainty and mystery of what tomorrow will bring is inspiring. This quote reminds us to remain motivated, celebrate the victories and keep going.

The beloved Walt Disney said “If you can dream it, you can do it.” This quote really focuses on our dreams and efforts required to make them come true. We are only limited to our own imaginations and capabilities of making them come true – so we should not listen to naysayers, but believe in ourselves.

Quotes from Political Leaders

Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary activist, said: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.” This quote encourages us to move beyond our own limitations and to strive onwards even in the presence of fear. It is a reminder that we all have our own battles to fight and to take control of them and not to let our fears stop us as courage lies in accepting and overcoming.

Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian pacifist and civil rights leader, declared that “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” It is arguably one of the best life lessons we will ever receive. This quote reminds us to make your life meaningful, learn from your mistakes and to enjoy each day because life is not about material possessions, but about experiences.

Quotes from Philosophers

Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher, said: “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” This phrase teaches us to think rationally, to consider things from different perspectives and approach ideas objectively. The quote moves us from a basic “black and white” view of the world to a more open and understanding perspective.

Plato, another ancient philosopher, shared that “One of the penalties of refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” This quote reminds us to get involved in the political decisions which will define our future. To find a way to use our rights with responsibly, to vote whenever there is an opportunity and to become proactive citizens.