Quotes That Inspire
Among the wide range of hobbies or interests some of us spend time on, my passion is collecting inspirational quotes. They can motivate, inspire and encourage with a “call to action.” Scientific research has shown that an inspirational quote can invigorate us to continue through the grind of tough work. As a business family, creating unity of purpose can create a close bond amongst members. Quotes can inspire by making you laugh, by being a life lesson or by promoting core values.
To accomplish my objective to finish my five marathon races, I was strengthened by the spectators signs exhibiting humorous sayings. Although some were scribbled with bright markers on poster board while others elaborately decorated, the impact was the same. These messages from total strangers gave me a chuckle which was a welcome distraction from the physical challenges of the race. Here are some of my favorite funny fan messages:
Less than 1% of Americans have run a marathon. You are one of those 1%.
You’re running better than the government (this was at the Marine Corp Marathon in DC)
May the course be with you
Worse parade ever
You think you are tired, my arms are killing me
It is just a hill, get over it
You are almost there (at mile 5 of 26.2)
The end is NOT near
And my favorite of all after running past 100’s of signs, “Stop reading, start running.” The marathon fans and the volunteers gave me the energy to continue. Their expressions of humor gave support to continue although I wanted to quit many times. Words have energy and power, but humor has the ability to relieve some of the pain in a marathon race or in the race of life for a business family.
As a life lesson, an inspiring quote from a family member will always be remembered. A good quote can help tell a story and can leave an impact for future generations. As a family celebration exercise, we asked brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews what quotes from a family member made an impression on them. To start, I shared one that is dear to my heart, “The world is yours.” My parents repeated this continually to teach us we can achieve anything thing in life our hearts desired. No glass ceilings for their five daughters. My husband’s dad would say, “Watch out for what you wish for because you are going to get it, but you will have to give up something along the way.” A message of achieving your dreams, but balancing life through the journey. Our nephew remembered his grandfather, Chuck Ames, saying, “Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered” meaning strive for success, but don’t get greedy. And from all nieces and nephews they remembered, “If you are not bleeding, you are fine.” A common parental response to teach children resilience. These powerful affirmations from prior generations shape our thoughts and manifest our dreams into reality.
Quotes can also be used as mantras or mottos to represent our life’s purpose. A motto is defined as; “a short sentence or phrase that expresses a rule guiding the behavior of a particular person or group.” Our family phrase from the Hoge coat of arms, “Dat Gloria Vires,” which means a good name gives strength. Some other inspirational mottos, “Think,” which was established by IBM or “Think Different,” from Apple. “Just Do It,” is a well know mantra of Nike. “Do no harm,” is the Hippocratic oath or “Give more than you take” are all good words to live by. IMAX’s vision is to “Think Big” while Adidas proclaims, “impossible is nothing.” These famous business mottos can inspire a unique family motto such as, “We can do hard things,” “Stand for something,” or “Fly together.” Think of what is important to you as an individual, a family or business and create a unique statement to proclaim your mission and vision succinctly in a catchy, easy to remember way.
By using humor, family quotes or mottos, you can positively influence the lives of the people you love, your family. It gives children and young adults clarity to figure out who they are and what they stand for. A sense of identity by providing them something to remember through their journey of life’s challenges. It creates a sense of unity and purpose as a family. What quote inspires you and your family?
