Getting counsel from a professional is a terrific option when you’re lacking motivation. But sometimes we don’t have experts available. These 15 quotes from some of the greatest minds in history will inspire you to study English if that describes your situation and you’re looking for some motivation.
In 2024, the journey of learning English continues to be a rewarding and transformative experience for many. Whether you’re just starting out or advancing your skills, staying motivated is key to your success. Here are 15 powerful quotes to inspire and encourage you on your path to mastering English, reminding you that every step forward brings you closer to your language goals.
1. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. – Gandhi
Enjoy the now, but keep in mind that studying English will help you be more prepared for the future.
2. Learning is not a spectator sport. – D. Blocher
Participate in activities and put your English skills to the test as much as you can.
3. There is no substitute for hard work. – Thomas Edison
Any language requires effort to learn, so plan ahead, put in the time, and you’ll succeed.
4. Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. – Lao Tzu
You will have more time to deal with issues if you start your learning process early. If you divide a big objective into smaller ones and just start, it becomes more manageable.
5. The best way to predict the future is to create it. – Abraham Lincoln
6. You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. – C.S.Lewis
Many people claim that learning a language is simpler while you’re young, yet there are benefits to learning a language later in life.
7. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. – Gandhi
Enjoy living in the moment but remember that learning English will prepare you for the future.
8. Learning is like rowing upstream, not to advance is to drop back. – Chinese Proverb
In a world where everyone else is learning, if you don’t take your learning seriously you will fall behind.
9. The secret of getting ahead is getting started. – Mark Twain
Like the Lao Tzu quote earlier, this one is a great way to help you stop procrastinating. Anything you can do right away will help you get ahead with your goal of learning a language.
10. If you can dream it, you can do it. – Walt Disney
Walt Disney was well known as a man who made dreams come true, and you can, too. It just takes plenty of hard work.
11. It doesn’t matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. – Confucius
Learning a skill such as a new language can take a long time. If you feel like your progress is slow, bear in mind these wise words from Confucius. The important thing is to keep going and you will get there in the end.
12. By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. – Benjamin Franklin
Earlier in the year, we shared some tips on how to plan your studies for the coming year. Planning is important when you are learning a language so don’t be afraid to put some time into it.
13. Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better. – Samuel Beckett
Making mistakes is a natural part of the language learning process. The key is to learn from these mistakes. Don’t be afraid to try out new things in English but always remember to reflect on them and decide what was successful and what you need to keep working on.
14. Language is “the infinite use of finite means.” – Wilhelm von Humboldt
Remember, it is possible to communicate big ideas with relatively limited language. Don’t feel like you need perfect English before you can go out and have interesting conversations with other people.
15. Is it not enjoyable to learn and practise what you learn? – Confucius
Using your English skills is fun. Make time just to enjoy speaking English.
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I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
