I love inspiring quotes. They keep me looking forward, not back. They keep me on my toes, not on my heels. And when encountered at the right moment, they have altered my perception of what’s possible.
This week, in honour of the life-changing power of good advice, I’ve decided to share seven of my favourite quotes for each day of the week. Cutting this list down to just seven felt nearly impossible, but to borrow a phrase from Nelson Mandela, things “always seem impossible until they are done,” and thanks to that little push from the great man, I did manage to get this list done.
Monday
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.
–Arthur Ashe
Set your week up for success by taking a positive action on Monday whether it be getting to the gym, making your lunch, or walking the dog 10 minutes longer. It is the start of a new week so get after it and make sure whatever you do it’s in service of your larger goals!
Tuesday
It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.
–Confucius
One day down six to go! On Tuesday, you need to build on Monday’s momentum so let that initial action result in another positive choice or act.
Wednesday
Most people give up right before the big break comes—don’t let that person be you.
– Michael Boyle
Hump day is here: Do you take a breath or keep fighting the good fight? I’m going to listen to Boyle and keep pushing because it’s the daily grinding after what we want that inevitably results in achieving it.
Thursday
People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing. That’s why we recommend it daily.
– Zig Ziglar
Thursday is a good time to remind yourself why you are making a change or going the extra mile. Write it down, tell a friend, or spend some time quietly meditating on the reasons why you’re doing what you’re doing.
Friday
I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.
–Florence Nightingale
The weekend is within sight, but don’t use that as a reason to deviate from the path to awesomeness you are on right now. Stay in the moment!
Saturday
There are no traffic jams along the extra mile.
–Roger Staubach
On Saturday, it’s easy to get sidetracked. And while it’s important to have fun, relax and play, be sure to do one small thing in service of your big-picture goal. It’ll keep your focus tight and maintain the momentum.
Sunday
Fall seven times and stand up eight.
–Japanese Proverb
Hopefully you have had a success in the past six days, and if you haven’t then at least you aimed for it. Regardless of your week, don’t forget that even if you were derailed one day (or even all seven) each day holds the promise of success.
Duncan McNeill is a coach and co-owner at Alchemy CrossFit.