At times, all you need is a bit of encouragement to lift your spirit. Your favorite movies may offer a small dose of motivational quotes to help you go through a bad day, move on, or even seize the day. Let’s delve into inspiring remarks from the best motion pictures ever made.
#1 – “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” (Forrest Gump, 1994)
Forrest Gump (portrayed by Tom Hanks) shared his mother’s simple yet thoughtful life perspective using a box of chocolates as a metaphor. Open it, and you will find various flavors – some may be enjoyable, while others may not.
Similar to life, it can be unpredictable and full of surprises, throwing unexpected experiences and trials. It inspires you to accept that and embrace the unknown.
#2 – “Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” (Dead Poets Society, 1989)
It is one of the most memorable quotes by the renowned actor Robin Williams, who played an eccentric yet inspirational English teacher named John Keating. The phrase empowers us to make the most of our time, to live our lives to the fullest, and to pursue our dreams as unique individuals, regardless of the challenges or hindrances we face.
#3 – “The past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it, or learn from it.” (The Lion King)
Rafiki, the male mandrill sage in Disney’s 1994 animated movie, spoke this iconic saying to Simba. It reminds us that lessons are everywhere, in everything, even from your past trials, failures, or hardships. On the contrary, they can serve as a source of insight and a catalyst for growth.
#4 – “Why do we fall, sir? So that we can learn to pick ourselves up.” (Batman Begins, 2005)
When Bruce Wayne (Batman) went through a weighty setback, his no-nonsense butler, Alfred, delivered this encouraging message to him. It is indeed a powerful encouragement, implying that failures are inevitable, but conversely, it offers valuable lessons and opportunities to overcome despair and learn from mistakes.
#5 – “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” (Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, 2004)
Professor Albus Dumbledore, the greatest Hogwarts Headmaster and powerful wizard, delivered this iconic line. He emphasizes that even in dark times or challenging circumstances, there is always a spring of joy to find if you actively search for it. It strongly encourages us to remain optimistic and pursue positivity, even in the most challenging situations.
#6 – “The more you know who you are, and what you want, the less you let things upset you.” (Lost in Translation, 2003)
Charlotte (played by Scarlett Johansson) said that she didn’t know what she was supposed to be. “You’ll figure that out,” said Bob Harris (played by Bill Murray) to her.
The quote discusses self-understanding and self-clarity of values and goals, suggesting that if you truly understand yourself and those who matter to you, you will be more resilient to any undesirable external pressures.
#7 – “If you focus on what you left behind, you will never be able to see what lies ahead.” (Ratatouille, 2007)
Timeless and unanimously relevant, it is a saying by Chef Gusteau, an illustration in a recipe book, to the protagonist rat, Remy. The quote reminds us that our past experiences should not define our future. Moreover, it tells us not to dwell on the past and miss out on new opportunities that are forthcoming.
#8 – “A laugh can be a very powerful thing. Why, sometimes in life, it’s the only weapon we have.” (Who Framed Roger Rabbit?)
One of the greatest motivational quotes from a 1988 groundbreaking combo between animated and live characters. Said by Roger Rabbit, the line highlights that laughing can be our coping mechanism while dealing with hardship. Finding humor can help you find a way out of adversity.
#9 – “Only if you find peace within yourself will you find a true connection with others.” (Before Sunrise, 1995)
This romantic movie conveys a meaningful message: to have a genuine relationship with others, you must first accept yourself. Your ability to build connections will depend on your journeys of self-understanding, inner peace, self-discovery, and emotional wellness.
#10 – “Great men are not born great, they grow great.” (The Godfather, 1972)
An iconic quote by Mario Puzo inspires the idea that greatness is not merely an inherent attribute but rather a product of struggles, experiences, perseverance, and choices. People develop their competencies and potential over time through their actions and determination.
Don’t forget the legendary Yoda in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back with his iconic line, “Do, or do not. There is no ‘try’.” Or, short yet profound motivational quotes – “Just keep swimming” (Finding Nemo) or “Adventure is out there” (Up) that miraculously help you to be better or even dream bigger.