12 Uplifting Quotes for Difficult Days
-
Inspiration for Creatives
Feeling stuck? Unmotivated? Wondering if your creative journey is even worth it?
We’ve all been there. Whether you’re an artist, illustrator, designer, or any other type of creative, difficult days are part of the process. That’s just the reality, whether it’s in your career or personal life. The self-doubt, the overwhelm, the creative blocks, the imposter syndrome—it’s all normal. But that doesn’t mean you have to let it stop you. When things get tough, a few simple words can be the reminder you need to keep going. Here are 12 uplifting quotes for difficult days—words of encouragement to lift you up when you’re feeling stuck.
12 Uplifting Quotes for Hard Times
1. “At the end of hardship comes happiness.” – Korean Proverb
No matter how challenging things feel right now, they won’t last forever. Every struggle is temporary, and brighter days are ahead.
2. “It’s just a bad day, not a bad life.” – Mary Engelbreit
One bad moment doesn’t define you. Step away, breathe, and remember: tomorrow is a new chance to try again.
3. “Some days you just have to create your own sunshine.” – Unknown
Life isn’t always smooth, and some days feel heavier than others. But even on the toughest days, small actions can make a difference—playing your favorite song, stepping outside for fresh air, or reaching out to a friend. Joy isn’t always something that just happens; sometimes, you have to create it for yourself.
The same is true for creativity— it isn’t always effortless. On days when inspiration feels out of reach, make a small move—doodle, sketch, experiment with color. Even a tiny spark can reignite your creativity.
4. “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” – Henry David Thoreau
Perspective changes everything. Instead of seeing obstacles, try looking for opportunities. What can this moment teach you?
5. “You are allowed to be both afraid and brave.” – Unknown
Fear is natural. Every creative has moments of doubt. But pushing forward despite fear is what makes you grow.
6. “The obstacle is the way.” – Ryan Holiday
Struggles aren’t detours; they’re the path itself. Every challenge you overcome strengthens your resilience and skill.
7. “Pain is temporary. Quitting lasts forever.” – Lance Armstrong
The frustration, the doubt, the creative blocks—they’ll pass. But giving up? That’s the only way to truly fail.
8. “Dream big and dare to fail.” – Norman Vaughan
Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s part of it. Every failed attempt brings you closer to something extraordinary.
9. “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” – Zig Ziglar
Waiting for the perfect moment? Stop. Just begin. Growth happens through action, not perfection.
10. “You can if you think you can.” – George Reeves
Mindset is everything. Believe in yourself—even when it’s hard.
11. “You never fail until you stop trying.” – Albert Einstein
Every setback is a lesson. Keep learning, keep creating, keep moving forward.
12. “Everything is figureoutable.” – Marie Forleo
Stuck? Overwhelmed? Remember: there’s always a way forward. It might take time, but you will find it.
When You Feel Like Giving Up, Read This
Some words are too powerful not to share. So, here’s a reminder that has inspired countless creatives—Edgar Albert Guest’s poem Don’t Quit.
Don’t Quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As everyone of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don’t give up though the pace seems slow –
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor’s cup;
And he learned too late when the night came down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out –
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And when you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit –
It’s when things seem worst, you must not quit.
If today feels heavy, remember that every every artist, illustrator, and designer has struggled at some point. Creativity isn’t about effortless perfection—it’s about persistence.
So, take a deep breath, read these words again, and keep going. Your best work is still ahead of you.
Which of the 12 uplifting quotes for difficult days spoke to you the most?
Save this post for later or pin your favorite quote to Pinterest!
And if you’re looking for more creative inspiration, join our private Facebook Group to connect with like-minded creatives!
