The 1980s were a decade that brought about interesting fashion choices, good music, and most importantly, great movies. One of the greatest directors to grace Hollywood was the late John Hughes. Known for his classics such as "The Breakfast Club" and "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off," the 1980s were a decade that proved successful for this director, writer, and producer. While these movies are classics today, they’re more than just what meets the eye. John Hughes’ films were filled with incredible quotes that can easily stand on their own as life mottos. While the following quotes may at first seem like great parts to an even greater movie, the thing is, there’s a lot of truth behind them, even thirty years later. And let’s be honest, some of these quotes would be great motivational posters.
“A person should not believe in an –ism; He should believe in himself.”-Ferris Bueller, "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off" (1986)
While many of us may not believe in –isms, like fascism or communism, it is important to always believe in yourself. You are the creator of your own destiny -- believe in yourself and make it a good one.
“Spend a little more time trying to make something of yourself and a little less time trying to impress people.” –Principal Vernon, "The Breakfast Club" (1985)
As we grow up, we find ourselves believing that we must impress those around us. When we do this, we lose the determination to do things for ourselves. The more time we waste trying to make others like us, the less time we have to make something of ourselves. Don’t let the fear of being unliked keep you from following your dreams.
“If somebody doesn’t believe in me, I can’t believe in them.” –Andie Walsh, "Pretty in Pink" (1986)
Surround yourself with people who are going to build you up, not tear you down. If they don’t believe in you, don’t waste your time believing in them.
“Then I’m nineteen, then I’m twenty, when does my life belong to me?” –Keith Nelson, "Some Kind of Wonderful" (1987)
Growing up it seems like our life never belongs to us. It’s dictated by family, friends and school, but don’t let your life pass by you. Never let your life belong to someone else, don’t let others determine how you spend your life just because you’re young. Your life is YOURS, so live it a way that makes you happy.
“I’m not going to sit on my a** as the events that affect me unfold to determine the course of my life. I’m going to take a stand.” –Cameron Frye, "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off" (1986)
Don’t let your life flash before your eyes. Take a stand and make your life what you want it to be. If things don’t work out the way you planned, don’t just sit there and be unhappy. Take a stand and change your life to reflect the person you wish to become.
“That’s why they call them crushes. If they were easy, they’d call them something else.” –Jim Baker, "Sixteen Candles" (1984)
Crushes. We’ve all had one, many times they’re not easy, and end up leaving us heartbroken. But remember, we’re all in this together and we’ve all been there. They’re not easy, but they shape us into stronger versions of ourselves.
“Whether or not you face the future, it happens.” –Duckie, "Pretty in Pink" (1986)
We all get older and the future creeps up on us. Face the facts, the future is coming, make sure you make it the best one you possibly can. Prepare for the future, so you can love every minute of it.
“Well, you think what you want about me. I’m not changing. I like me. My wife likes me. My customers like me. ‘Cause I’m the real article. What you see is what you get.” –Del Griffith, "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" (1987)
Let others think what they want of you. As long as you love who you are, that’s all that matters. Be the real deal, don’t be what people expect you to be. Be yourself, always.
“I want you to like me for what I am.” –Gary Wallace, "Weird Science" (1985)
Expect people to like you for who you are - don’t think change is necessary. You are who you are, and that should be enough, especially for those worth having in your life.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” –Ferris Bueller, "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off" (1986)
Don’t let your life flash before your eyes -- stop and smell the roses once in awhile. If you don’t, I can promise you’ll miss the greatest and most wonderful parts of life.
