Eleanor Roosevelt, a former First Lady of the United States, was a remarkable figure known for her advocacy of human rights, social justice, and equality. Here are some of her most famous and inspiring quotes:
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
- A quote that encourages people to have faith in their visions and work toward their goals.
- “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
- One of her most famous quotes, it speaks to the power of self-confidence and the importance of not letting others undermine your worth.
- “You must do the things you think you cannot do.”
- This quote emphasizes courage and pushing through personal limits to achieve growth and success.
- “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”
- Roosevelt encourages action and hope in the face of adversity, advocating for positive change rather than complaining about problems.
- “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
- Though often attributed to Franklin D. Roosevelt, this concept was one Eleanor Roosevelt embodied throughout her life—encouraging people to overcome fear and act boldly.
- “Do one thing every day that scares you.”
- A call to embrace discomfort and challenge oneself in order to grow.
- “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”
- Roosevelt emphasizes the value of focusing on ideas and progress rather than getting caught up in gossip or trivial matters.
- “The giving of love is an education in itself.”
- This quote highlights Eleanor Roosevelt’s belief in the transformative power of love, care, and empathy in shaping better lives and societies.
- “If life is to be meaningful, we must learn to give.”
- Roosevelt believed in selfless service and that the purpose of life is to contribute to the well-being of others.
- “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.”
- A reminder that personal growth comes from overcoming challenges and facing fears head-on.
- “Human rights begin in small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person; the neighborhood he lives in; the school or college he attends; the factory, farm, or office where he works. Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination.”
- A powerful statement about how human rights are essential at the personal level and are vital for a just society.
- “What you don’t do can be a destructive force.”
- Roosevelt underscores the importance of taking action and the consequences of inaction in the face of injustice.
- “You can never really know a person until you see the world through their eyes.”
- This quote reflects Roosevelt’s empathy and her commitment to understanding people from all walks of life, regardless of background or circumstance.
- “I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today.”
- Roosevelt demonstrates resilience and a positive attitude toward the present, shaped by her experiences.
- “Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
- A repeat of one of her most empowering quotes, reminding individuals to maintain their dignity and self-respect.
These quotes by Eleanor Roosevelt continue to inspire people to live courageously, embrace human rights, and make a positive difference in the world. Her life’s work and words remain a source of guidance for those striving to improve both themselves and society.