Favorite Inspirational Quotes

My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success.  She said that achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you.  Success is being praised by others.  That is nice but not as important or satisfying.  Always aim for achievement - success will follow.

Helen Hayes

This inspirational quote puts a whole new light on the subject of success.  If success is only found when others praise our efforts, then it’s just not that important.  At least, it shouldn’t be according to all I am learning.

I’ll admit I do like it when others notice that I have worked hard and achieved a goal.  I like the pats on the back.  I know that’s letting outside things affect how I feel inside.  It should be more important what I have achieved, that I have achieved my goals, than what someone says about my achievement.  However, attention and notice are important to the human critter.

Maybe part of this goes back to personal responsibility as well.  Do I achieve my goals because others will acclaim the achievement?  Or do I do pursue my goals because I know they are right for me?

I know what I want and I work to achieve it.  What I do know is that neither achievement of the goal nor success come about till I take action, focus on my goal, and persevere to its achievement.  Whether I get success after that or not is not up to me if all success means is to be praised by others.  All I can do is do my best to achieve.

Tags: Helen Hayes