25 Motivational Quotes You Didn't Know You Needed to Read

We all have those days when the will to do anything seems out of reach. Whether we’re feeling stuck in a rut, overwhelmed by our to-do list, upset by a recent setback, or just plain blah, it’s normal to lose our momentum from time to time.

Sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge or a spark of inspiration to get us going again. That’s where motivational quotes come in—these simple yet powerful words can give us a push when we need it most.

“Motivational quotes remind us that we can do hard things when we need to. They also remind us that we're not alone, that others also have trouble getting things done sometimes,” says Aimee Daramus, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at Clarity Clinic, Chicago.

We've compiled a collection of motivational quotes that will inspire you to get going. When your energy and creativity levels are low, these quotes by famous people will remind you to keep at it until you achieve your goals. Remember, you’ve got this!

25 Motivational Quotes

Here are some motivational quotes that will inspire you to keep going:

How to Use Motivational Quotes for Daily Inspiration

We all need motivation to get us through the day.

Motivational quotes can be helpful because life can be exhausting sometimes, and we have to do things that we don't like, says Dr. Daramus. “It's easy to do things that are exciting, like playing with your pet or watching a good movie, but when you have to do something that's not interesting to you, then you have to find a way to motivate yourself.”

These are some strategies that can help you use motivational quotes for a daily dose of inspiration:

• Select quotes that align with your goals: Pick quotes that speak to you and align with what you're trying to achieve. 
• Start your day with a quote: Begin your day by reading or writing a motivational quote that resonates with you. It can be a great way to set a positive tone for the day.
• Use visual reminders: Place motivational quotes on your mirror, fridge, desk, computer, or phone screen. This way, they will serve as constant reminders to stay focused and motivated.
• Recite quotes as mantras: Certain quotes can become your go-to phrases during stressful or challenging times. Repeat them like a mantra to calm your mind or boost your confidence.
• Incorporate quotes into journaling: When you write in your journal at the end of the day, reflect on a quote and write how it applied to your experiences. This helps deepen its meaning and keeps you connected to your motivation.
• Share quotes with others: When you find a quote that resonates with you, share it! Whether it’s with friends, colleagues, or on social media, spreading positive words helps create strong bonds.

What to Do When Quotes Aren’t Enough

While motivational quotes can be a powerful tool, they may not always provide the inspiration you need. Here’s what you can do when inspirational words aren’t cutting it:

• Reflect on your feelings: Sometimes we rely on quotes to help us feel better without addressing the issue that’s bothering us and holding us back. If you're feeling stuck or demotivated, take some time to reflect on what's going on. For instance, factors like stress and burnout can take a major toll on your motivation levels.
• Revisit your goals: If your motivation is fading, it may be time to revisit your goals. Are they still meaningful to you? Do they need to be adjusted? Being passionate about what you’re doing can be a powerful source of motivation.
• Take small action steps: Motivation often follows action, not the other way around. Instead of waiting to feel inspired, set clear, achievable goals, and break them down into actionable steps, says Tatiana Rivera Cruz, MSW, LCSW, a therapist at ADHDAdvisor. Taking action, even if it's small, can help build momentum and eventually lead to a bigger sense of accomplishment.
• Change your environment: Sometimes, a change of scenery can spark creativity and motivation. Try working in a different location or taking a short break.
• Focus on self-care: When we’re physically or mentally drained, no amount of motivational words can move us. Take a step back and assess whether you’ve been neglecting your self-care. Sometimes rest, relaxation, and recharging are exactly what you need to regain your motivation.
• Seek support: Seek support from mentors or peers, says Cruz. Sometimes we need more than a motivational boost—we need connection, advice, perspective, or emotional support to help us move forward.

Parting Words

When nothing seems to lift you up or push you forward, it may be a sign that something deeper needs your attention. A persistent lack of motivation can be a symptom of certain mental health conditions, like depression. If you’re struggling with something and need help, please reach out to a mental healthcare provider for support.