We’ve all been there. Laying in bed at night and the negative thoughts start.

She was right to leave you. Your friends and colleagues don’t like you. You should have finished grad school. The black mold in your walls could have been prevented if you had just scheduled regular sump pump maintenance like a decent human being. The rainforest is burning, and you’re just lying here feeling sorry for yourself. Your 401(k) investments are poorly diversified, too.

It happens even to the best of us! Fortunately, there is a way to mitigate all that negativity, and don’t worry—we’re not about to segue into a pitch for a miracle cure. Staying present can be as easy as thinking positive things. Think about your positive qualities and the things you did today that made you proud. See? You’re starting to feel better already!

When the darkest thoughts take hold—you know the ones—take a moment to reflect on the positive affirmations and quotes of others for inspiration. Here are just a few positive attitude quotes to get you started!

Quotes About Positivity and Having a Positive Attitude

Groucho Marx

“I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.”

Groucho Marx

Groucho Marx on Positivity Quotes

The quote by Groucho Marx emphasizes the power of personal agency and choice in shaping one’s happiness. Marx highlights the importance of focusing on the present moment, recognizing that dwelling on past events or worrying about the future only detracts from one’s ability to find joy in the present. By acknowledging that happiness is a matter of personal perspective and decision, Marx encourages individuals to embrace each day with positivity and intention, regardless of external circumstances. This quote serves as a reminder of the power we hold over our own emotional well-being and the significance of living in the present moment.

Victor Frankl

“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space lies our freedom and power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom.”

Victor Frankl

Victor Frankl on Positivity Quotes

The quote by Viktor Frankl delves into the concept of personal autonomy and resilience. Frankl suggests that within the gap between external stimuli and our response to them, lies a realm of freedom. This space allows us to exercise our capacity to choose how we react to various situations, regardless of the circumstances. He emphasizes that our growth and liberation stem from the choices we make in response to life’s challenges. By recognizing this space for choice and exercising our agency, we can navigate adversity with greater wisdom and find empowerment in our ability to shape our own experiences.

George Soros

“To others, being wrong is a source of shame; to me, recognizing my mistakes is a source of pride. Once we realize that imperfect understanding is the human condition, there is no shame in being wrong, only in failing to correct our mistakes.”

George Soros

George Soros on Positivity Quotes

In this quote, George Soros challenges the traditional notion that being wrong should be a source of shame. Instead, he views the recognition of one’s mistakes as a cause for pride. Soros advocates for a mindset that acknowledges the inherent fallibility of human understanding. He suggests that making errors is a natural aspect of the human condition and should not be met with shame, but rather with a commitment to self-improvement. According to Soros, the true failure lies in refusing to learn from our mistakes and correct them. By embracing our imperfections and actively seeking to rectify them, we can cultivate personal growth and resilience.

Kurt Vonnegut

“And I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, ‘If this isn’t nice, I don’t know what is.”

Kurt VonnegutA Man Without a Country

Kurt Vonnegut on Positivity Quotes

Kurt Vonnegut’s quote encourages mindfulness and appreciation for moments of happiness. He prompts individuals to take notice of their joy and consciously acknowledge it by expressing gratitude or simply recognizing the pleasantness of the experience. Vonnegut suggests that by consciously acknowledging and cherishing these moments, we can cultivate a greater sense of contentment and gratitude in our lives. This quote serves as a reminder to embrace and savor moments of happiness, no matter how small or fleeting they may seem, as they contribute to our overall well-being and sense of fulfillment.

Gary Vaynerchuk

“Positivity always wins… Always.”

Gary Vaynerchuk

Gary Vaynerchuk on Positivity Quotes

Gary Vaynerchuk’s quote encapsulates his belief in the power of positivity to triumph in any situation. He asserts that no matter the circumstances, maintaining a positive mindset and outlook will ultimately lead to success. Vaynerchuk advocates for the relentless pursuit of optimism, even in the face of challenges or setbacks. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and mindset, as it can be a driving force behind achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.

Aristotle

“Happiness is a quality of the soul… not a function of one’s material circumstances.”

Aristotle

Aristotle on Positivity Quotes

Aristotle’s quote highlights his philosophical perspective on happiness, emphasizing its intrinsic nature rather than its dependence on external factors. He suggests that true happiness, or eudaimonia, stems from the quality of one’s soul or inner being, rather than from material possessions or external circumstances. Aristotle’s insight challenges the common notion that happiness is solely determined by wealth, status, or material comfort. Instead, he posits that genuine happiness arises from cultivating virtues, such as wisdom, courage, and kindness, which enrich the soul and lead to a fulfilling life. This quote invites reflection on the deeper, more profound sources of happiness and fulfillment within oneself.

Elvis Presley

“When things go wrong, don’t go with them.”
Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley on Positivity Quotes

Elvis Presley’s quote offers a simple yet profound piece of advice for navigating challenges in life. He advises against succumbing to negativity or despair when faced with adversity. Instead, Presley urges individuals to maintain their composure and resilience in difficult times. By refusing to be dragged down by setbacks or misfortune, one can maintain a sense of control and optimism, ultimately persevering through tough situations with grace and determination. This quote serves as a reminder to stay strong and positive even when faced with adversity, emphasizing the importance of resilience and maintaining a forward-looking mindset.

Marcus Aurelius

“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”
Marcus AureliusMeditations

Marcus Aurelius on Positivity Quotes

Marcus Aurelius’s quote from “Meditations” encourages a profound shift in perspective towards embracing the beauty and wonder of life. He advises individuals to focus on the splendor of existence, symbolized by the celestial bodies like stars. By contemplating the vastness and magnificence of the universe, Aurelius invites us to see ourselves as part of something greater, akin to running alongside the stars. This imagery evokes a sense of connection and harmony with the cosmos, suggesting that by aligning ourselves with the grandeur of the universe, we can find inspiration, purpose, and fulfillment in our own lives. The quote serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty around us and to aspire to greatness in our endeavors.

Donald Trump

“Get going. Move forward. Aim High. Plan a takeoff. Don’t just sit on the runway and hope someone will come along and push the airplane. It simply won’t happen. Change your attitude and gain some altitude. Believe me, you’ll love it up here.”
Donald Trump

Donald Trump on Positivity Quotes

The quote attributed to Donald Trump conveys a message of initiative, determination, and self-reliance. Trump urges individuals to take proactive steps towards their goals, emphasizing the importance of action over passivity. He uses the metaphor of an airplane on a runway to illustrate the necessity of personal effort in achieving success, rather than waiting for external assistance. By encouraging a shift in mindset towards ambition and optimism, Trump suggests that taking control of one’s circumstances and striving for greatness can lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding life.

Michael Jordan

“Always turn a negative situation into a positive situation.”
Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan on Positivity Quotes

Michael Jordan’s quote reflects his mindset of resilience and determination. He encourages individuals to approach adversity with a proactive attitude, striving to find opportunity and growth even in difficult circumstances. By advocating for the transformation of negatives into positives, Jordan emphasizes the power of perspective and the importance of maintaining a forward-thinking mindset. This quote serves as a reminder that challenges can be opportunities for personal development and success, reinforcing the idea that one’s attitude and response to setbacks play a crucial role in shaping outcomes.

Epictetus

“I must die. Must I then die lamenting? I must be put in chains. Must I then also lament? I must go into exile. Does any man then hinder me from going with smiles and cheerfulness and contentment?”
Epictetus

Epictetus on Positivity Quotes

Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, presents a stoic perspective on accepting life’s inevitable challenges with equanimity and resilience in this quote. He acknowledges the inevitability of difficult circumstances, such as death, imprisonment, or exile, but challenges the notion of lamenting or resisting these outcomes. Instead, Epictetus encourages individuals to face adversity with a sense of inner peace and acceptance. By emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and embracing life’s trials with grace, he underscores the Stoic principle of focusing on what lies within one’s control—namely, their attitude and response to external events. This quote serves as a reminder of the power of perspective in finding contentment and serenity even in the face of adversity.

Joseph Campbell

“Nietzsche was the one who did the job for me. At a certain moment in his life,the idea came to him of what he called ‘the love of your fate.’ Whatever your fate is, whatever the hell happens, you say, ‘This is what I need.’ It may look like a wreck, but go at it as though it were an opportunity, a challenge. If you bring love to that moment—not discouragement—you will find the strength is there. Any disaster you can survive is an improvement in your character, your stature, and your life. What a privilege! This is when the spontaneity of your own nature will have a chance to flow.

Then, when looking back at your life, you will see that the moments which seemed to be great failures followed by wreckage were the incidents that shaped the life you have now. You’ll see that this is really true. Nothing can happen to you that is not positive. Even though it looks and feels at the moment like a negative crisis, it is not. The crisis throws you back, and when you are required to exhibit strength, it comes.”
Joseph CampbellA Joseph Campbell Companion: Reflections on the Art of Living

Joseph Campbell on Positivity Quotes

In this quote, Joseph Campbell reflects on the transformative power of embracing one’s fate, inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche’s concept of “the love of your fate.” Campbell suggests that by approaching life’s challenges with love and acceptance, individuals can find strength and resilience even in the face of adversity. He emphasizes the idea that every experience, even those that initially appear as failures or crises, ultimately contributes to personal growth and character development. Campbell encourages a perspective shift where difficulties are viewed as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By embracing one’s fate with love and courage, individuals can tap into the spontaneity of their own nature and navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and fortitude.

Napoleon Hill

“To win the big stakes in this changed world, you must catch the spirit of the great pioneers of the past, whose dreams have given to civilization all that it has of value, the spirit that serves as the life-blood of our own country – your opportunity and mine, to develop and market our talents.”
Napoleon HillThink and Grow Rich

Napoleon Hill on Positivity Quotes

In this quote from “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill, the author underscores the importance of adopting the pioneering spirit of past visionaries to succeed in the modern world. Hill suggests that by channeling the determination and innovative mindset of historical pioneers, individuals can unlock their full potential and capitalize on opportunities to thrive in contemporary society. He highlights the notion that tapping into one’s talents and entrepreneurial drive is key to achieving success and contributing to the advancement of civilization. Hill’s message serves as a call to action, urging readers to harness their creativity and ambition to realize their goals and make meaningful contributions to society.

Oscar Wilde

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”

Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde on Positivity Quotes

Oscar Wilde’s quote is a poignant reflection on the diversity of perspectives and attitudes towards life. He acknowledges the universal struggles and challenges (“the gutter”) that all individuals face, suggesting that adversity is a common experience. However, Wilde emphasizes that despite these shared hardships, some people choose to focus on the beauty, wonder, and potential for greatness in the world (“looking at the stars”). This quote serves as a reminder that even in the midst of difficult circumstances, there is always room for optimism, inspiration, and aspiration. It encourages individuals to adopt a positive outlook and to seek out the beauty and possibilities that surround them, regardless of their circumstances.

Maya Angelou

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou on Positivity Quotes

Maya Angelou’s quote encapsulates a powerful message of empowerment and resilience. She advocates for proactive action in the face of dissatisfaction, encouraging individuals to take control of their circumstances. If it’s within one’s power to change a situation, Angelou urges them to do so. However, she also acknowledges that there are circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, she emphasizes the importance of adopting a positive attitude, suggesting that our perspective and response to challenges can profoundly impact our experience. This quote serves as a reminder of the agency we possess in shaping our lives and the importance of cultivating a constructive mindset, even in the face of adversity.

Bruce Lee

“Do not allow negative thoughts to enter your mind for they are weeds that strangle confidence.”

Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee on Positivity Quotes

Bruce Lee’s quote emphasizes the detrimental effects of negative thinking on one’s confidence and overall well-being. He compares negative thoughts to weeds, suggesting that they have the potential to choke out positive attitudes and hinder personal growth. Lee advocates for guarding one’s mind against negativity, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset. By recognizing and rejecting negative thoughts, individuals can nurture their confidence and cultivate a mindset conducive to success and fulfillment. This quote serves as a reminder of the power of mental discipline in shaping one’s outlook and achieving personal goals.

Colin Powell

“Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.”

Colin Powell

Colin Powell on Positivity Quotes

Colin Powell’s quote encapsulates the profound impact of perpetual optimism on amplifying one’s effectiveness and success. He refers to optimism as a “force multiplier,” suggesting that maintaining a positive outlook can significantly enhance one’s capabilities and achievements. By continually embracing optimism, individuals can harness its energizing and motivating power to overcome challenges, inspire others, and drive positive change. Powell’s quote underscores the importance of cultivating an optimistic mindset as a strategic advantage in both personal and professional endeavors.

Walt Disney

“I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter.”

Walt Disney

Walt Disney on Positivity Quotes

Walt Disney’s quote reflects his balanced perspective on life, blending optimism with realism. He acknowledges his preference for seeing the bright side of things, highlighting his inclination towards optimism. However, Disney also recognizes the complexity of life, acknowledging that it is not always straightforward or easy. By embracing both optimism and realism, Disney suggests a pragmatic approach to navigating life’s challenges and uncertainties. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a positive outlook while also being grounded in reality, allowing for a more nuanced and resilient approach to facing life’s complexities.

Muhammad Ali

“To be a great champion you must believe you are the best. If you’re not, pretend you are.”

Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali on Positivity Quotes

Muhammad Ali’s quote captures the essence of the mindset required to achieve greatness in any endeavor. He emphasizes the crucial role of self-belief in becoming a champion, asserting that one must have unwavering confidence in their abilities. Even if one is not objectively the best, Ali suggests that adopting the mindset of being the best can propel them towards success. This quote underscores the importance of confidence, determination, and the power of positive self-talk in achieving one’s goals. It encourages individuals to cultivate a winning mentality, believing in themselves and their capabilities, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.

Aristotle

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.”

Aristotle

Aristotle on Positivity Quotes

Aristotle’s quote succinctly encapsulates his philosophical perspective on the ultimate goal of human existence. He posits that happiness, or eudaimonia, is not only a desirable state but also the fundamental purpose and meaning of life. According to Aristotle, all human actions and pursuits are ultimately aimed at achieving happiness. This quote highlights the centrality of happiness in Aristotle’s ethical framework, emphasizing its significance as the ultimate aim and fulfillment of human life. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of seeking and cultivating happiness in our personal and collective endeavors.

Hal Borland

“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.”

Hal Borland

Hal Borland on Positivity Quotes

Hal Borland’s quote poetically captures the cyclical nature of life’s seasons and the inevitability of change. He uses the metaphor of winter and spring to illustrate the transient nature of difficult times and the assurance of renewal and growth. Borland reminds us that even in the darkest of moments, there is hope for brighter days ahead. Just as winter eventually gives way to spring, so too do our trials and tribulations make way for periods of rejuvenation and transformation. This quote serves as a comforting and reassuring reminder that while challenges may arise, they are temporary, and the cycle of life continues with the promise of renewal and new beginnings.