We asked folks to tell us about their favorite quote or affirmation and to tell us what it means to them. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Jp Reynolds

“Never Crystallize. Remain open to change, renewal, adventure, experiment.” Anais Nin

I was painfully shy in high school and when I got to college I knew I had to do something to break through what was keeping me from connecting with people. And so, I joined the school’s radio station, WFUV (Fordham University). If I worked at a radio station, I’d be forced to speak, but, I wouldn’t have to look at people. I soon found myself hosting a weekly two-hour arts-n-entertainment interview show. Yes, the shy guy ended up hosting a totally nerdy radio show! Read More>>

Caroline Mcfarlane-watts

“Stick to the plan, not to your mood.” I don’t know who to attribute this quote to as Google wont tell me, but I came across it yesterday and like it because I try to live by that mentality. It’s a slightly different way of saying “keep ploughing on” and to focus on the outcome I want. It can happen that I feel burned out but I make a cup of tea and stick to my self-imposed schedule as though I’ll fire myself if I don’t get it done! Read More>>

Miriam Lamb

Hendrix profoundly stated, “Music doesn’t lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music.”
Throughout my life, music has been a transformative force. Growing up, I embraced a wide range of musical genres. However, as a young African-American girl with a passion for heavy metal, I often faced teasing. Despite this, the lyrics provided solace during challenging times, including experiences of bullying and feelings of not fitting in. Read More>>

Laverne Mckinnon

One of my favorite affirmations is courage over confidence.

When I was fired from a high profile job years ago, I lost my identity, esteem and confidence (along with many other things!) I found it more and more difficult to put myself up for cool opportunities, to speak up in meetings and take calculated risks. While I waited for my confidence to return, my life and career were drifting. Read More>>

Valentin Correa Mallmann

Before deciding to study and pursue music abroad, I remember reading Mark Manson’s quote, “We can be truly successful only at things we are willing to fail at. If we are unwilling to fail, then we are unwilling to succeed.” This belief became a guiding light for me. It reminded me that failure isn’t the opposite of success but a necessary part of the journey. Embracing this mindset gave me the courage to step into the unknown, trust my passion, and believe in myself, even when the path felt uncertain. I understood that no matter what I decided to pursue in life, I would fail regardless in the beginning, so why not fail at something that I love and get better at it? Read More>>