Inspirational Quotes and Sayings
Three Simple Rules

Three rules for using inspirational quotes and sayings. Are you using a saying for a pick-me-up? A quote for a speech or mission statement? Creating a slogan or team cheer?

Here are some guidelines for choosing the right ones, and maximizing effectiveness.

• Be clear on your reason for seeking out the saying. What is your intended purpose for the saying? To use as an affirmation? To put on a plaque to hang on the wall? Is it for yourself, someone else, a group? To use as the basis of a mission statement?

  A very long quote, for instance, might be great for use on a plaque on the wall in your office, but it doesn't work well as a battle cry for a sports team. Keep in mind that inspiration normally sparks a shift in thinking, while motivational quotes beg for action.

• Make sure the quote or saying is audience appropriate. Think about how you're going to use the quote and who the intended audience is. If a quote is just for you and no one else ever has to see it or hear it, that's one thing.

  But, if you wanted to use a saying that is intended for another audience, consider that audience carefully. Some inspirational quotes and sayings may need to be explained, or they may be dated. Does it have a cultural context that requires some background information?

  If you're going to be using it in a speech to motivate others, for example, make sure the quote resonates with your audience, or adjust your speech to set up the quote properly. You may like your brand of humor, and it may work, but it could backfire on you too. Consider your audience.

• Adapt the quote to your needs. You don't necessarily have to use a quote as originally intended. You can sometimes twist the quote to suit the subject matter and your audience.

  If the quote requires a bit of reframing, go ahead and adapt it to the context in which you need it. You may need to use a portion of the quote, rather than the entire quote.

  If the quote is strictly for your own use, go ahead and reword it to your liking and make it your own. If you're using the quote in your writing, speeches, or otherwise quoting the original source, you either need to leave the quote as is, or explain that you've recycled and modified the quote.

Obviously, inspirational quotes and sayings can be used to great advantage. Knowing why you're using them, adjusting for your audience, and adapting them to your needs will ensure maximum effectiveness.