“4 Inspirational Quotes You Should Read Right Now”

Yesterday, I had the honor of being one of several guest speakers at a new event organized by Fhonia Ellis. Her “The Life You Want, Part 2” event was designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs gain knowledge, tips and words of motivation to take that next step in their paths toward self-employment. All of the speakers provided great advice and insight into how to be a successful entrepreneur, and I was in awe of the talent that is within the city of Louisville. Out of all the things I shared, I told those in attendance about the four quotes that I live by, and I wanted to share them with you:

1. “Success occurs when preparation meets opportunity.” In order to be successful, you need to prepare yourself for when that opportunity arises. Getting your education, skills, business plan and other paperwork in order is a must, but you also need to prepare yourself mentally for the grind it takes to reach your dreams.

2. “Education leads to elevation.” Education is essential to anyone who wants to be successful. That education can be formal through schooling and other certificate programs, and it can be informal from learning on the job, reading articles and books and having conversations with your mentor or peers. Whatever route you choose, make sure that what you’re reading and listening to is adding value to your long-term goals.

3. “Do the unnecessary so that you can become a necessity.” In order to be successful, you must first learn to follow. Being a follower doesn’t mean being someone’s errand boy/girl, it means going beyond the norm to provide exceptional service and value to those you come in contact with. And when you do those things that are deemed unnecessary, people will always want you around, because they see you as a necessity.

4. “Life is too short to go with flow; you need to learn how to swim against the current.” One thing about successful people is that they don’t fit within the status quo. Rather than fit into any one box that society defines, they choose to go against the grain to bring something of value that no one else does. Going against the majority allows you to stand out in the crowd, while watching everyone else go by.

I am a huge fan of quotes, so I would love to hear which ones you live by.

Photo Credit: Fhonia Ellis