Albert Einstein was one of the greatest and most influential scientists the world has ever seen. His theories of relativity improved our understanding of the universe. He explained the relationship between mass and energy with the famous E=mc2 formula. The German-born theoretical physicist also made huge contributions to the development of quantum theory. Here we take a look at the top 10 most inspiring Albert Einstein quotes.
Einstein won the Nobel Prize in physics in 1921 for the discovery of the Photoelectric effect, which laid the groundwork for the quantum theory. Einstein was more than just a great physicist. He is known for his curiosity and the originality of thought. He was also a philosopher who explored some of the biggest questions on life. Einstein was also a human rights activist and a gifted musician.
Before looking at the most inspiring Albert Einstein quotes, let me tell you that Einstein is one of the most misquoted personalities. People believe that if they (wrongly) attribute any quote to Einstein, it will sound smarter. So, I did extensive research to verify that each of the below quotes is from Einstein himself.
10- “I still struggle with the same problems as ten years ago. I succeed in small matters but the real goal remains unattainable, even though it sometimes seems palpably close. It is hard, yet rewarding: hard because the goal is beyond my abilities, but rewarding because it makes one oblivious to the distractions of everyday life”
9- “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when one contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality”
8- “Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding”
If there is no understanding between two parties – whether individuals or countries – there cannot be peace. If you try to keep the peace by force, it could lead to conflict. Both parties have to understand each other’s core concerns, motivation, and values for lasting peace.
7- “Valuable achievement can sprout from human society only when it is sufficiently loosened to make possible the free development of an individual’s abilities”
You cannot expect a person to win medals in sprinting if you keep their legs tied. The broader society has to give people the freedom to explore their full potential and make a worthwhile contribution.
6- “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile”
Living a life dedicated to the service of others brings meaning to life. It doesn’t mean you have to quit your job to do something good for others. You can add value to other people’s lives through your work.
5- “The value of achievement lies in the achieving”
This is one of my favorite Albert Einstein quotes. The great scientist believes in enjoying the journey rather than being obsessed with the end goal. A lot of people care only about the end goal or big prize.
4- “There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”
If you believe that nothing is a miracle, life will seem like a burden and you are unlikely to appreciate all the wonderful things it has to offer. Choosing to believe that everything is a miracle makes you feel blessed. It makes you wonder, question, and appreciate everything you have in life.
3- “Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value”
You need a combination of luck and hard work to be successful. Everyone wants to be successful. But Einstein says a person should try to become a man of value rather than a man of success. Many a time people lose sight of who they are once they become successful. If you live by your values and try to improve the lives of those around you, you’ll end up being successful.
2- “Fear or stupidity has always been the basis of most human actions”
That’s so true. The actions of most people are driven by fear and stupidity. You dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur, but the fear of losing your monthly payment and having to live without money makes you stay in the safety of the monthly paycheck for the rest of your life.
1- “Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it”
Albert Einstein understood the difference between knowledge and wisdom. He says that traditional schooling focuses on gathering and remembering information. Wisdom – the ability to discern and judge what is true and right – cannot be taught in school. It takes years of observation, experience, decision-making, and comprehension to acquire wisdom.
Bonus quote: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination circles the world
