5 Encouraging Quotes To Help You Through Those Hard Times
We all have those days (or weeks, months, years!) when life feels overwhelming. During these tough times, a few kind words can make all the difference. They act as bridges between our struggles and our potential, offering hope when we need it most.
The following quotes explore different aspects of encouragement – from embracing our inner light to recognising the beauty in transformation, they remind us that difficult times are temporary – and often the very ground from which our greatest growth emerges.
The wisdom shared by poets, authors, and thinkers across generations reveals how the right words can nurture resilience, restore confidence, and illuminate the path forward when we feel lost in the dark.
Take what you need for your heart today.
When You Feel Overwhelmed... Remember Struggle Doesn't Last Forever
"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty."
Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou's profound observation about metamorphosis reminds us that growth is rarely comfortable. Just as a caterpillar must endure the darkness of the cocoon before emerging as a butterfly, our own struggles and challenges are often the very catalysts that lead to our most beautiful transformations.
This isn't about believing 'everything happens for a reason' or that we need to suffer to find happiness. Rather, it's about recognising that beauty can emerge from difficult times, bringing wisdom and growth we might not have found otherwise.
When life feels tough, this quote encourages us to view our difficulties not as permanent states, but as an unavoidable part of life's process. The butterfly doesn't become beautiful despite its struggles – it becomes beautiful because of them. Our hardships, too, can become the foundation for newfound strength, wisdom, and resilience.
When You Need Hope... Look For The Beauty Around You
"The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all."
Walt Disney's Mulan
The Emperor in Disney's Mulan captures a universal truth: there is something particularly special about those who find ways to flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. Like a flower pushing through concrete, human resilience in the face of adversity demonstrates the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit.
When we're facing our own difficult seasons, this quote reminds us that our ability to bloom despite hardship isn't just admirable – it's what makes us truly exceptional. The beauty that emerges from struggle carries a depth and character that could never have developed in easier times.
This doesn't make these times easier, by any means – but it gives us hope that something beautiful can grow from our struggles.
When You Feel Stuck... Trust Your Inner Wisdom
"I think you absolutely know what to do. You've just been convinced that you don't."
Arielle Estoria
Have you ever felt like you don't know what to do? That there's a little voice in your head whispering (or shouting) “You are not capable!” or “You know nothing.” or “That's not possible!”
We'll let you into a little secret... those voices are not you. The messages, whatever they are, have come from someone or somewhere else.
Poet Arielle Estoria reminds us that amidst all our doubt and confusion, we need to quiet the noise of outside opinions and reconnect with our inner knowing.
The path forward may not always be clear, but there's a part of us that recognises truth when we hear it – we just need to trust ourselves enough to listen.
When You Need Courage... Embrace Your True Light
"There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. ... It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."
Marianne Williamson
These powerful words remind us that dimming our light serves no one. When we're going through difficult times, we might be tempted to make ourselves smaller, to diminish our gifts or hide our power. But Williamson points out that our light isn't just for us – it's a beacon that gives others permission to shine as well.
In our darkest moments, remembering our inherent brilliance can be the spark that reignites our hope and purpose. And if that feels too hard, then start to look for other people who are shining bright and allow yourself to be liberated by their freedom.
**This quote comes from a well-known longer passage. Read it here.
Fun fact: we loved this message about shining bright so much it inspired us to create our Shine Bright Metallic prints, where real metallic elements catch and reflect light - a beautiful reminder to let your light shine! Shop them today.
When You Are In Survival Mode... Look For The Promise Of Better Days
"Hang in there. It is astonishing how short a time it can take for very wonderful things to happen."
Frances Hodgson Burnett
From the author of The Secret Garden comes this gentle reminder that even our darkest periods are temporary. Burnett's words speak to the surprising speed with which our situation can change for the better, often when we least expect it, without any input from us.
When we're in the midst of difficulty, time can feel like it's dragging. But this quote encourages us to hold on just a little longer, because breakthrough might be closer than we think.
Just like spring flowers that seem to appear overnight after a long winter, wonderful things can unfold in our lives with astonishing speed once their time has come.
When You Need A Reminder... Find Strength In Other's Words
When you're having a tough time, it can be hard to find the right support. Friends and family mean well, but sometimes the most comforting words come from unexpected places. These quotes are like a gentle hug, reminding us that we're not alone and that better days are ahead.
They remind us that difficulty is not the end of our story, but rather an important chapter in a larger tale of growth, transformation, and ultimately thriving.
As you navigate your own challenges, may these words serve as companions on your journey, whispering encouragement when you need it most.
Remember: though life may be rough right now, you possess everything you need to not just survive this season, but to emerge from it stronger, wiser, and more beautifully yourself than ever before.
Joy on Tap Pick of the Week: Thrive Floral Notebook
Sometimes the most powerful medicine is writing down our thoughts, dreams, and the words that lift us up.
Our Thrive Floral Notebook, blooming with yellow and white flowers against emerald leaves, creates a beautiful space for your journey.
Whether you're jotting down encouraging quotes, daily gratitudes, or processing tough emotions, this spiral-bound notebook is your companion for both the sunshine and storm clouds.
Shop the Thrive Floral Notebook
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