Eleanor Roosevelt, often called the “First Lady of the World,” was much more than just a First Lady; she was a humanitarian, activist and key figure in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Her wisdom and courage, showcased in her many inspiring quotes, continue to empower lives today.
Roosevelt was the first First Lady to hold an official White House press conference for women reporters and actively volunteered during World War I.
Known for her forward-thinking mindset, she encouraged living in the present and not dwelling on the past.
Even posthumously, her impact is celebrated, reminding us of her unwavering dedication to justice, equality and human rights.
Roosevelt’s quotes serve as timeless sources of motivation and resilience.
Here are 15 Inspiring Eleanor Roosevelt Quotes to Empower Your Life.
1. “Power corrupts. Knowledge is power. Study hard. Be evil.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote presents a stark warning about the dual nature of power and knowledge.
While knowledge equips individuals with the ability to influence and lead, it also carries the risk of moral decay.
The phrase “study hard” emphasizes the importance of education as a tool for empowerment.
However, the concluding “be evil” suggests that knowledge can be misused, highlighting the ethical responsibility that comes with learning.
It’s a call to be vigilant about how one wields power.
See Also: 15 Inspirational Theodore Roosevelt Quotes on Leadership and Success
2. “Poor minds talk about people. Average minds talk about events. Great minds talk about ideas.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote delineates the levels of intellectual engagement. Conversations focused on people often dwell in gossip, reflecting a lack of depth.
Discussions about events indicate a moderate level of awareness but still miss the essence of innovation.
In contrast, great minds elevate dialogue to the realm of ideas, where creativity and vision thrive.
This distinction encourages individuals to aspire to deeper conversations that foster growth and inspire change, rather than getting lost in trivialities.
3. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Belief in dreams is a powerful catalyst for change and progress.
This quote emphasizes that the future is shaped by those who dare to envision a better world.
It suggests that dreams are not mere fantasies but rather blueprints for potential realities.
The term “beauty” implies that these dreams are not only ambitious but also noble and worthwhile.
This perspective inspires individuals to cultivate their aspirations, as they hold the key to unlocking future possibilities.
4. “Do what you feel in your heart to be right – for you’ll be criticized anyway.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote champions the importance of personal integrity and authenticity.
It acknowledges that criticism is an inevitable part of life, regardless of one’s choices.
Therefore, it advocates for acting in accordance with one’s values and convictions rather than succumbing to external pressures.
The phrase “feel in your heart” underscores the significance of intuition and emotional intelligence in decision-making.
Ultimately, it encourages individuals to embrace their truth, knowing that they cannot escape judgment.
5. “Do one thing every day that scares you.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Embracing fear can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.
This quote serves as a reminder that stepping outside of comfort zones is essential for development.
Engaging in activities that provoke fear can build confidence and expand one’s horizons.
It suggests that challenges are opportunities for learning and self-discovery.
By confronting fears daily, individuals cultivate courage and adaptability, ultimately enriching their lives and experiences.
6. “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
This metaphor highlights the strength and resilience inherent in women, often revealed during challenging times.
Just as tea bags release their flavor and potency when steeped in hot water, women often demonstrate their true capabilities under pressure.
This quote underscores the idea that adversity can unveil hidden strengths and qualities.
It encourages recognition of the inner fortitude that emerges in tough situations, celebrating the power of perseverance and adaptability.
7. “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Empowerment and self-worth are central themes in this quote.
It asserts that feelings of inferiority stem from personal acceptance of others’ judgments.
By emphasizing “consent,” it highlights the importance of self-agency and the ability to control one’s emotional responses.
This perspective encourages individuals to cultivate self-confidence and resilience, reminding them that external opinions should not dictate their self-perception.
Ultimately, it’s a call to own one’s value and reject negativity.
8. “To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote advocates for a balanced approach to personal and interpersonal management.
Utilizing intellect to navigate one’s own life suggests the importance of rationality and self-discipline.
Conversely, employing compassion and empathy when dealing with others emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence.
This duality encourages individuals to be both logical and empathetic, fostering healthier relationships and better decision-making.
It reminds us that success often hinges on both mental acuity and emotional connection.
9. “Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
This quote reframes the pursuit of happiness, suggesting it is not an end in itself but rather a result of living authentically and purposefully.
When individuals engage in meaningful activities, nurture relationships and pursue passions, happiness naturally emerges as a consequence.
This perspective encourages a shift away from chasing happiness directly, promoting instead a focus on fulfilling experiences and personal growth.
It highlights that true contentment often arises unexpectedly from a life well-lived.
Read Also: 15 Powerful Mother Teresa Quotes to Inspire Compassion
10. “True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Hospitality transcends mere physical offerings; it embodies the spirit of generosity and warmth.
This quote emphasizes that authentic hospitality involves sharing one’s time, attention and kindness with others.
It suggests that the essence of being a gracious host lies in creating a welcoming environment where guests feel valued and cherished.
By giving the best of oneself, hosts foster connections and create memorable experiences, reflecting the deeper meaning of hospitality beyond superficial gestures.
11. “Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote categorizes the nature of discourse among different intellectual levels.
Engaging in discussions about ideas signifies a higher level of critical thinking and creativity, where innovation flourishes.
Conversations centered on events demonstrate a moderate level of awareness but lack depth.
In contrast, discussions focused on people often devolve into gossip and triviality.
This hierarchy encourages individuals to elevate their conversations, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and meaningful dialogue.
12. “You wouldn’t worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
This quote sheds light on the often exaggerated concern individuals have regarding others’ opinions.
It suggests that many people are preoccupied with their own lives, leaving little time to judge others.
By recognizing this reality, individuals can liberate themselves from the shackles of insecurity and self-doubt.
This perspective encourages self-acceptance and confidence, reminding us that our worth is not contingent upon external validation but rather on our own self-perception.
13. “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Each day presents a fresh opportunity for renewal and growth.
This quote emphasizes the potential for transformation that comes with the dawn of a new day.
It suggests that every sunrise brings not only physical light but also the chance to reassess, recharge and refocus.
By embracing this daily renewal, individuals can cultivate resilience and optimism, allowing them to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and newfound vigor.
14. “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote highlights the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living in the present.
It serves as a reminder that each moment is unique and should be cherished.
The juxtaposition of being the oldest and youngest emphasizes the continuous passage of time, urging individuals to seize opportunities while they can.
This perspective encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the present, motivating individuals to make the most of their current experiences and choices.
15. “It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
The effort expended in wishing for change is equivalent to that required for strategic planning.
This quote underscores the futility of idle dreaming without actionable steps.
It advocates for a proactive approach to achieving goals, emphasizing that planning is a productive use of energy that leads to tangible results.
By channeling aspirations into structured plans, individuals can transform dreams into reality, highlighting the importance of intention and action in the pursuit of success.
