“Everything changes and nothing stands still” — so said Greek philosopher Heraclitus in 535 BCE. More than 2,500 years later, this statement still holds true. Whether we’re in the midst of changing jobs (or thinking about it), moving to a new city, getting married, deciding if homeownership or parenthood is for us, or trying to decide which hobbies to pursue in retirement, being an adult is basically making one big, life-changing decision after another. Oftentimes when the stakes are particularly high, it can feel impossible to make the “right” decision. With so many options for, say, where we want to retire, how do we even begin to prioritize which factors to take into account and which to ignore?
In the midst of any life-altering event, it’s important to remember that change is an inevitable part of life and it doesn’t always have to be daunting or devastating. In fact, change can allow us to get to know ourselves better, fortify our resolve, and recognize our strength in the face of uncertainty. If we think back to all the crossroads we’ve traversed to get where we are, haven’t they all allowed us to become more fully ourselves in the end? The 11 quotes below are meant to provide solace, humor, and wisdom as we navigate tough decisions. Think of them as companions for a new beginning.
To improve is to change, so to be perfect is to have changed often.Winston Churchill
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.James Baldwin
You have to start with the truth. The truth is the only way that we can get anywhere. Because any decision-making that is based upon lies or ignorance can't lead to a good conclusion.Julian Assange
People have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of a fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar.Thích Nhất Hạnh
Change will not come if we wait for some other person or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.Barack Obama
They always say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.Andy Warhol
If you obsess over whether you are making the right decision, you are basically assuming that the universe will reward you for one thing and punish you for another. The universe has no fixed agenda. Once you make any decision, it works around that decision.Deepak Chopra
If you want to succeed you should strike out on new paths, rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success.John D. Rockefeller
Because the results are unpredictable, no effort of mine is doomed to failure.Hugh Prather
Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.John C. Maxwell
Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.Marcus Aurelius
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