Life is a complicated matter. It's jumping out of bed one morning and sleeping until noon the next. It's full of the greatest of joys and the deepest of sorrows, in a constant ebb and flow from the daily grind.
So, without further ado, here are ten quotes that make life just a little bit easier:
1. "Go the extra mile, it's never crowded" (Unknown).
It is so incredibly easy to quit when things get hard, and it's tempting to cut corners and go through life doing just the bare minimum to get by. What's hard is always giving your full effort—even when it doesn't seem worth it. But in the end, taking the road less traveled always pays off.
2. “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life” (Unknown).
Having a career is a part of life, but making sure to straighten out your priorities is important. Living for the next paycheck isn't living at all if you're unable to do the things that you love. You're more important than your salary or title, so make time to live your life.
3. “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire” (Jennifer Lee).
Everyone has a passion in life—something that uncontrollably drives our curiosity and motivates us to make the world a better place. Everyone's passion is different, but we have them, so find your passion and never let it our of your sight.
4. “There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind” (C.S. Lewis).
The past can bring up some dark memories, but focusing on the future is the key to success. Leave behind your past, because better things are ahead of you. Remember, tomorrow is only a day away, and each new day brings the promise of excitement and opportunity.
5. “Be the change you wish to see in the world” (Mahatma Gandhi).
The world we live in is clearly imperfect. Everywhere you look there are broken systems, broken homes and a whole lot of broken people. The truth of the matter is, that in a world full of hurt there is an obvious need for change. With so much need for change, what's stopping you from being the one to make it happen?
6. “Live less out of habit and more out of intent” (Amy Flett).
It's easy to develop a "daily routine," but going through the motions isn't making the most of the life you've been given. Live life intentionally by making your actions count.
7. “Stay curious” (Unknown).
From the instant we're born until the day we die, we are constantly learning things about the world around us. No matter how old you are, never lose your thirst for learning because there is an entire world to be explored.
8. "Loving yourself is the greatest revolution" (Unknown).
One of the most constant relationships in your life is the relationship that you have with yourself. Loving yourself doesn't come naturally, and true self-love can take a lifetime to find, but happiness starts the day that you choose to love yourself in spite of your flaws and insecurities.
9. “Be silly, be honest, be kind" (Ralph Emerson).
Life doesn't always have to be so serious. Learn how to have fun, how to speak truth and how to treat others well, and you'll be well on your way to a more fulfilled life.
10. “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough” (Mae West).
Our days on the planet are numbered and unpredictable. Live in a way that makes the days count because we only get one chance in this life to leave a legacy. So, go. Live your life and treasure the every moment.
Life isn't always easy. There will be days where you just want to pull the covers over your head and fall asleep until everything gets better. But, hold fast because they will be days of insatiable joy and these small victories are what keeps us going.