The Power of Inspiration: 15 Quotes from Classic Movies

Quotes are everywhere these days – on social media, in self-help books, on posters and mugs. They inspire us, motivate us and give us hope. But have you ever wondered where some of the most popular quotes come from? You might be surprised to learn that many of them are from classic movies, some of which were made decades ago. These movies still resonate with audiences today, and their quotes have become part of our cultural vocabulary. Here are 15 of the best and most inspiring quotes from classic movies.

1. Don’t try to impress others, but try to impress yourself.

“Spend a little more time trying to make something of yourself and a little less time trying to impress people.” – Richard Vernon, Breakfast Club

This quote encourages us to focus on our own goals and aspirations, rather than worrying about the opinions of others. We should strive to be our best selves, rather than trying to please everyone around us.

2. Be kind to everyone you meet, because you don’t know what kind of a battle they’re fighting.

“Deliberate cruelty is unforgivable, and the one thing of which I have never, ever been guilty of.” – Blanche, A Streetcar Named Desire

This quote reminds us to be compassionate toward others, even when we don’t know their struggles. We should always try to be understanding and kind, rather than judgmental or cruel.

3. The greatest obstacle in life is prejudice. Don’t judge, before you experience it yourself.

“Prejudice always obscures truth.” – 12 Angry Men

This quote speaks to the importance of empathy and open-mindedness. We should try to understand others and their perspectives, rather than making assumptions based on our own biases and prejudices.

4. Always believe in yourself and your capabilities.

“We all come into this world with our little egos equipped with individual horns. If we don’t blow them, who else will?” – Addison De Witt, All about Eve

This quote encourages self-confidence and self-esteem. We should be proud of who we are and what we can accomplish, rather than doubting ourselves or seeking validation from others.

5. Don’t let other people tell you what to do. It’s your life, so make the choices on your own.

“There’s only one person who’s going to decide what I’m going to do and that’s me.” – Charles Foster Kane, Citizen Kane

This quote reminds us that we are in control of our own lives. We should make decisions based on our own desires and values, rather than letting others dictate our choices.

6. You only live once, so don’t stress out about your job, but make it an interesting game.

“In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and snap, the job’s a game.” – Mary Poppins, Mary Poppins

This quote encourages us to find joy and fulfillment in our work, rather than seeing it as a burden or chore. We should try to make our lives and our jobs as enjoyable as possible.

7. Every moment of your life is valuable, so go out there and live your life.

“I wanna be free. I wanna be gay and have fun. Life’s short. And I wanna live while I’m alive.” – Helen, Hell’s Angels

This quote reminds us to live life to the fullest, rather than wasting our time on things that don’t matter. We should make the most of every moment and enjoy our lives while we can.

8. Love leads us through our lives, so open your heart.

“Love is eternal. It has been the strongest motivation for human actions throughout history. Love is stronger than life.” – Laura, Laura

This quote speaks to the power of love and its ability to guide us through our lives. We should be open to love and let it lead us where it may.

9. It’s better have loved and had your heart broken, than never loved at all.

Wizard of Oz: “As for you, my galvanized friend, you want a heart. You don’t know how lucky you are not to have one. Hearts will never be practical until they can be made unbreakable.”

Tin Woodsman: “But I still want one.” – Wizard of Oz

This quote reminds us that love is worth the risk of heartbreak. We should be brave enough to love and to put our hearts on the line.

10. In life always expect the unexpected.

“My mama always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get’” Forrest Gump, Forrest Gump

This quote speaks to the unpredictable nature of life. We should be prepared for the unexpected and embrace whatever comes our way.

11. You can achieve whatever you want, imagine it and make it happen.

“If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it. Anything you want to, do it. Want to change the world? There’s nothing to it.” Willy Wonka, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

This quote encourages us to dream big and believe in our ability to achieve our goals. We should never give up on our dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

12. When you have hope, you have everything.

“Remember Red, hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.” – Andy Dufresne, The Shawshank Redemption

This quote reminds us of the power of hope and its ability to sustain us through difficult times. We should never lose hope, even when the situation seems bleak.

13. If you can help at least one person, you are helping the whole world by making it better place.

“It’s Hebrew, it’s from the Talmud. It says – Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.” – Itzhak Stern, Schindler’s List

This quote speaks to the importance of helping others and making a positive difference in the world, even if it’s just one person at a time. We should always try to make the world a better place, in whatever way we can.

14. If you fear, you will fail. Always have courage, because it is the unstoppable force.

“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” – Yoda, Star Wars V: Empire Strikes Back

This quote reminds us of the destructive power of fear and the importance of courage in overcoming it. We should be brave and face our fears, rather than letting them control us.

15. Every day is a precious gift – use it wisely.

“Seize the day! Make your lives extraordinary!” – Mr. Keating, Dead Poets Society

This quote encourages us to make the most of every day and to live our lives to the fullest. We should seize every opportunity that comes our way and make our lives as extraordinary as possible.

In conclusion, classic movies have a timeless quality that allows them to continue inspiring and impacting audiences long after their release. These 15 quotes from classic movies remind us of the importance of self-confidence, compassion, love, hope, courage, and living life to the fullest. So, the next time you’re in need of some inspiration, turn to these classic movies and be motivated to live your best life!