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.

Nnamdi Okoro | Tech Innovator & CEO

I have a favorite quote that inspires me to be determined and driven in my work: “Today I will do what others won’t so I can do what others can’t tomorrow.” By putting in the extra effort and sacrificing my leisure time and comfort, I believe I can achieve success and reach my goals. I understand that hard work now will enable me to do things in the future that others may not be able to. Read more>>

Nicole Carter | The Ultimate J.O.Y. Leader

My favorite affirmation is the scripture Nehemiah 8:10….”The JOY of the Lord is your strength.” Over the past decade, I have had several trials that seemed too tough to handle. When I thought about throwing in the towel or waiving the white flag in surrender, the scripture kept me going. The scripture reminds me that life may be difficult, but the Lord is always on my side. The Lord gives me the strength to endure whatever comes. I may not be happy about it because happiness is conditional. But I WILL have JOY because it is unconditional. JOY comes from the Lord!!! Read more>>

Niyati Jiwani | Fine Art Artist

“A picture is a secret about a secret, the more it tells you the less you know.” – Diane Arbus This depicts my personality as an artist. As a contemporary artist, I make an effort to put my thoughts and imagination with colors on a blank piece of canvas. Each individual viewer has a unique perception about my paintings and thus, it is a secret about a secret. Read more>>

Andy Akangah, known as AKARTS | Illustrator & Designer

I usually keep a few quotes and affirmations within hand’s reach, and they help keep me centered at all times. My favorite these days would be “Think of a slingshot, the harder it’s pulled back the farther it shoots forward.” I so wholeheartedly believe in not giving up, fed to me through stubborn and hardcore anime characters but also as a state of mind, I’ve seen beautiful things happen from just persevering no matter how many setbacks or obstacles emerge. I don’t intend on letting fear or failure have the last word. Read more>>

Prachi Patel | Small Business Entrepaneur & Henna Artist

I have always wanted to be here for a good time and a long time so when I found this motto it was meant to be. My company motto is something a friend said to me once, “If we aren’t all friends what’s the point?” keeping in mind that not everyone is your friend. When she said that phrase to me I knew it was exactly the energy I needed to build my community around. I want people to enjoy their lives to the fullest and to always have a strong enough sense of self-worth so as to not be taken advantage of. I truly would not be where I am today without my friends, close friends, business friends, and school friends. Read more>>