Weekly Inspiration

Each week we will feature a quote on this page that is memorable and inspiring and which gets to the heart of an important truth about how to achieve success.

August 2010 Archive

30th August Quote of the Week

And in the end it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. 

This quote, from the great American president Abraham Lincoln reminds us of the importance of living our lives to the full.

None of us can know how long our lives will be, but we can do our best to make the most of them and to live every day to the fullest.

23rd August Quote of the Week

People think I’m disciplined. It is not discipline. It is devotion. There is a great difference. 

This quote comes from the great operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti.

Devotion comes when we find something that we love to do, which brings us great joy and which we desire to excel at for its own sake rather than for any external rewards that it may bring. When we find this, we will not need to force ourselves to be disciplined.

It is important that we search for what really engages and motivates us. Once we have found this, we will be naturally motivated to perform to the highest standards and success will flow from this motivation.

16th August Quote of the Week

If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it. 

This quote, from comedian and actor Jonathan Winters, reminds us of the importance of taking control of our own destinies.

Instead of simply hoping for a lucky break, we should take the actions necessary to help us to achieve our goals and get what we want from life.

9th August Quote of the Week

We are either progressing or retrograding all the while; there is no such thing as remaining stationary in this life. 

This quote comes from James Freeman Clarke, a notable nineteenth century preacher, writer and social activist.

It emphasises the importance of continually moving forward and constantly trying to learn and improve in all areas of our lives.

In many areas of life, particularly in our professional lives, progress marches on and standards continue to improve. It is essential that we keep up with the latest developments and keep upping our own standards, if not it is likely that we will overtaken by those who do.

2nd August Quote of the Week

He that will not reflect is a ruined man. 

This is an ancient Asian proverb.

Many of us live such hectic and busy lives that we may find it difficult to take the time out to reflect.

However it is very important that we do, as reflection is absolutely central to setting effective goals and in deciding what actions to take in order to achieve them.

If we do not step back and evaluate our goals and the actions we are taking towards achieving them, there is a danger that our lives will become a blur of meaningless or misdirected activity.

Reflection helps us to see what is important and what is effective and to keep our focus on these things.