Inspirational Quotes for Stress Relief

Inspiring Words to Change Your Perspective on Self Care

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Often, a shift in perspective can help relieve the stress of a variety of situations; that's where inspiring quotes can be not just fun to read, but great for stress management as well. The following group of inspirational quotes goes a step further — each quote is followed up with an explanation on how the concept relates to stress, and a link is supplied to supply you with additional information to take things a step further. The result is a collection of inspiring quotes you can share, and an increase in optimism and motivation as well.

Calming and Reflective Quotes from Famous Folks

-Mother Teresa

Being fully present today is not only a great way to maximize your success, but it's a very effective strategy for relieving stress as well. If you struggle with anxiety and rumination, try mindfulness.

-Anne Frank

While different specific things may lead to happiness for each of us, we all tend to respond to the same basic elements, according to positive psychology research. Here's what makes most people happy — what specific things make you happy?

-Robert Schuller

Perhaps surprisingly, perfectionists can be less productive because the intense focus on perfection can lead to procrastination (or missing deadlines entirely!) and other success-sabotaging side-effects. Do you have perfectionistic tendencies? If so, what might you do today to allow yourself to enjoy a successfully imperfect day?

‎"We turn not older with years but newer every day."
-Emily Dickinson

This is a great quote to remember each birthday, or on days when you're feeling your best times just may be behind you. On birthdays (and on ho-hum days when you need a boost) try creating and adding to a "bucket list" of great things you still intend to do. What might be on your bucket list?

-Douglas Pagels

Sometimes adding some fun activities into your schedule can give you the energy and motivation to handle the work of your day with a smile. Other times, these activities can lighten your mood, or provide you with a sense of meaning that can get you out of bed in the morning. What "imaginary letters" might lessen your stress today?

-Victoria Holt

Accepting and learning from mistakes is challenging, but no less important for our emotional wellbeing, and positively vital for our stress levels. What mistakes can be embraced and mined for a good experience?


Stress relief, like happiness, doesn't come from having a perfect life. It comes from appreciating the great stuff and coping with the less-than-great stuff. What do you appreciate in life? What can you look beyond?

-Rollo May

One of the best ways to change your life is to change the way you think about things. Changing your perspective can change everything. How would your day be better if your thoughts shifted?

‎"He who smiles rather than rages is always the stronger."
-Japanese Wisdom

It's not always easy to do, but if you're able to laugh instead of crying or screaming, stressors are easier to handle. Think of a time when you did this well, and remember your strength.

-Chinese Proverb

We are all affected by the experiences we have in life, especially as children. Helping kids learn healthy stress management techniques (and reminding ourselves at the same time, or learning along with them) is one of the best gifts you can give. How might you make a difference in the life of a child today?

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Your Citation
Scott, Elizabeth, MS. "Inspirational Quotes for Stress Relief." ThoughtCo, Jul. 31, 2021, Scott, Elizabeth, MS. (2021, July 31). Inspirational Quotes for Stress Relief. Retrieved from Scott, Elizabeth, MS. "Inspirational Quotes for Stress Relief." ThoughtCo. (accessed September 21, 2021).