Table of Contents
Words are not without power. However, their true power comes not from standing alone as words, but from being put into action. The best ideas in the world are meaningless if they are not implemented. What’s more, a “good idea” isn’t actually a very good idea if there is no way to implement it.
So how do we go about implementing our ideas in the real world?
This is the eternal question, the one that separates the so-called “armchair philosopher” from the man of action. And while it’s great to have aspirations and dreams, it’s much, much better to actually begin putting these ideas into practice. Anything short of this isn’t self-actualization, but the functional equivalent of daydreaming.
You doubtless need little convincing of the importance of following your aspirations in life. Clarifying what it is you want, however, is the first step toward building your dream, making it into a reality.
Some of the most important and powerful people in history have strong words to encourage you to make your dreams into a reality. We hope that you find these inspiring, then use that inspiration to go take action.
Quotes About Taking Action
Hermann Hesse
“Not in his speech, not in his thoughts, I see his greatness, only in his actions, in his life.”
In this poignant quote from Hermann Hesse’s “Siddhartha,” the essence of greatness is distilled into action rather than mere words or contemplation. It underscores the profound truth that true greatness isn’t manifested through eloquent speeches or lofty ideas alone, but rather through tangible deeds and the way one lives their life. By emphasizing the importance of action, Hesse highlights the transformative power of individuals’ choices and behaviors, suggesting that it’s through the lived experience and the impact we make on the world around us that our true essence and greatness are revealed.
Niccolò Machiavelli
“Entrepreneurs are simply those who understand that there is little difference between obstacle and opportunity and are able to turn both to their advantage.”
In this astute observation by Niccolò Machiavelli, entrepreneurship is portrayed as a mindset rather than a mere profession. By equating obstacles with opportunities, Machiavelli illuminates the entrepreneurial spirit’s core essence: the ability to perceive challenges as potential pathways to success. Entrepreneurs, in Machiavelli’s view, possess the keen insight to discern how to leverage both adversity and advantage to their benefit. They navigate the unpredictable terrain of business with strategic acumen, transforming setbacks into stepping stones and capitalizing on every situation to advance their goals. This quote encapsulates the resilience and resourcefulness inherent in the entrepreneurial journey.
James Baldwin
“People pay for what they do, and still more for what they have allowed themselves to become. And they pay for it very simply; by the lives they lead.”
In this profound reflection by James Baldwin, the interconnectedness of action, identity, and consequence is laid bare. Baldwin suggests that individuals incur a cost not only for their actions but also for the person they’ve evolved into. This cost isn’t measured in currency but in the lives they lead – the sum total of their choices, beliefs, and relationships. It underscores the idea that one’s life is the ultimate currency, with each decision shaping not only their present circumstances but also their very essence. Baldwin’s words compel introspection, urging individuals to consider the profound implications of their existence.
Carl Jung
“You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.”
Carl Jung’s succinct insight cuts to the heart of authenticity and integrity. In these words, he emphasizes the significance of action over mere words or intentions. True identity is forged through deeds, not promises. Jung challenges individuals to align their actions with their professed values and aspirations, suggesting that one’s character is revealed through their behavior. This quote serves as a reminder to prioritize substance over rhetoric, urging individuals to embody the values they espouse. It underscores the importance of accountability and the transformative power of consistent action in shaping one’s self and their impact on the world.
Patrick Ness
“You do not write your life with words…You write it with actions. What you think is not important. It is only important what you do.”
– Patrick Ness, A Monster Calls
In “A Monster Calls,” Patrick Ness delivers a profound truth about the essence of life through this quote. He suggests that the narrative of one’s existence isn’t scripted by words or thoughts, but by the actions undertaken. Ness emphasizes the primacy of deeds over contemplation, asserting that true significance lies in the tangible impact created by our choices and behaviors. This insight challenges individuals to transcend mere introspection and translate their intentions into meaningful action. It underscores the transformative power of lived experiences and the imperative to align actions with aspirations, shaping the narrative of one’s life through deliberate and purposeful engagement with the world.
Tony Robbins
“I love quotes…but, in the end, knowledge has to be converted to action or it’s worthless.”
Tony Robbins encapsulates the essence of practical wisdom in this quote, highlighting the importance of translating knowledge into action. While quotes may inspire and enlighten, Robbins emphasizes their limited value if not applied. He underscores the transformative potential of taking decisive steps towards goals and aspirations. In essence, he suggests that the true measure of knowledge lies not in its accumulation but in its application. By prioritizing action, Robbins champions the idea that learning is most meaningful when it catalyzes tangible change and propels individuals towards growth and fulfillment, echoing the sentiment that actions ultimately define our journey and impact.
Kielyr’s character
“We are defined by our actions, not our words.”
– Kielyr’s character, Captain Fantastic
In the character Kielyr’s words from “Captain Fantastic,” lies a timeless truth about human nature. Actions speak volumes about one’s character, values, and beliefs, far surpassing the significance of mere words. Kielyr underscores the idea that it’s through our deeds that we leave our mark on the world, shaping our identity and legacy. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of authenticity and integrity, urging individuals to align their actions with their professed ideals. It challenges us to recognize that true self-expression is found not in rhetoric but in the way we live our lives and interact with others.
Lao Tzu
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”
Lao Tzu’s timeless wisdom unfolds like a cascade of cause and effect, illustrating the profound interconnectedness of thoughts, words, actions, habits, character, and destiny. By urging mindfulness in thought and speech, Lao Tzu emphasizes their transformative power in shaping one’s behavior and ultimately, their destiny. This quote serves as a profound reminder of the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in every aspect of life. It underscores the idea that our habits and character are not fixed but are constantly shaped by our conscious and subconscious choices, influencing the course of our lives and the legacy we leave behind.
Mark Twain
“Action speaks louder than words but not nearly as often.”
Mark Twain’s wry observation cleverly juxtaposes the significance of action and speech. While action may carry more weight in certain instances, Twain suggests that words often dominate human interaction and perception. He subtly critiques the tendency for people to prioritize rhetoric over tangible deeds. However, Twain’s wit also acknowledges that impactful actions, though less frequent, possess a profound resonance. This quote serves as a humorous yet insightful commentary on human behavior, challenging individuals to align their words with meaningful actions, recognizing the potency of both in shaping perceptions and forging connections in the world.
American proverb
“All hat; no cattle.”
This quintessentially American proverb cuts straight to the heart of authenticity versus pretension. “All hat; no cattle” vividly captures the essence of someone who presents themselves as possessing grandeur or authority, yet lacks substance or genuine experience to back it up. It evokes imagery of a person adorned in a cowboy hat, projecting an image of ranching prowess, but upon closer inspection, has no actual cattle to tend. This succinct phrase serves as a humorous yet pointed critique of those who prioritize appearances over substance, reminding us to value genuine competence and integrity over mere showmanship.
Roy T. Bennett
“If you have a strong purpose in life, you don’t have to be pushed. Your passion will drive you there.”
– Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
In this enlightening quote from “The Light in the Heart” by Roy T. Bennett, the intrinsic power of purpose and passion is illuminated. Bennett suggests that when individuals possess a clear and compelling purpose in life, they are naturally propelled forward by their inner drive and enthusiasm. Rather than requiring external motivation or coercion, their passion serves as an unstoppable force, guiding them towards their goals with unwavering determination. This quote inspires individuals to cultivate a deep sense of purpose, recognizing that it not only provides direction but also ignites the fire within, fueling their journey towards fulfillment and success.