It’s my birthday month, which means it’s a time for reflection for me. I’ve decided to take a look at some famous quotes and share my opinions on them. Just remember, these are only my thoughts though...ready? Let's go...

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” — John Wooden 

This is always a delicate balance in your professional life more than personal. Building character is extremely important for your mental health. However, be prepared for some people with weak characters who may try to undermine you. Some will do it subtly, while others will be outright aggressive. Be aware of this.

“Once in a while, I catch myself wondering whether I would have found the courage to write if I had not started when I was too young to know what was good for me.” — Ama Ata Aidoo 

When you are young, everything feels possible. Fairy tales can happen—becoming a princess or a  global ballerina superstar can happen tomorrow. The innocence of childhood allows you to pursue dreams that adulthood might stifle. You need that head start before your self- doubt muscles get develop.  

“If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” — J.K. Rowling, *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

One of the things I loved about Harry Potter is good prevailed over evil. Simple good not exceptional good, just simple good. Harry Potter is made special by the actions of his mother. Her love and sacrifice for him.  He who must not be named with all his power and skill cannot overcome this.  Deep down I would like to continue to believe that this is true.

"Together, we must say no to hatred, no to revenge, and no to violence, particularly that violence which is perpetrated in the name of a religion or of God himself. God is peace, God is salaam." — Pope Francis

This statement is all the more important because in this world there are people who revel in hatred and violence, even though they call themselves Christians. History shows us repeatedly that simply reading the bible, singing hymns, praying and going to church does not make someone a good person. We all have work to do.

“When it comes to doing my job, I keep my ego in my handbag.” — Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala 

I resonate with this quote deeply. I enjoy what I do. I find purpose in my work, which makes me happy to be there, so I don’t need my ego. However, some people may need their ego; it's part of their job description.

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on." — Robert Frost 

This hits hard, especially when you’ve experienced grief. You may wish for the world to stop, but it keeps moving forward.

"My sisters, my daughters, my friends; find your voice." — President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf 

In a world where male colleagues sometimes mansplain, talk over you, or question your experience, it's essential to find your voice and strategically (not stupidly) use it.

"You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated." — Maya Angelou 

I’m sorry, Ms. Angelou, but sometimes I do feel defeated. While I will get up to face life again, there are moments when I just need to lay down, cry and come up with a plan.

“To have courage for whatever comes in life — everything lies in that.” — Saint Teresa of Ávila 

So true. In this life, courage is always needed. whether its to face betrayal from a loved one or go to the dentist, you will need courage ..

“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul — and sings the tunes without the words — and never stops at all.” — Emily Dickinson 

Sometimes it’s a whisper, sometimes it’s loud. At times, I get frustrated with its persistence, but where would we be without hope?

“I have chosen to no longer be apologetic for my femaleness and my femininity. And I want to be respected in all of my femaleness because I deserve to be.” — Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

Growing into who you are as a woman is vital to play all the roles you have in life. You need to know who you are to understand what you  can and cannot do. You need to comfortably grow into this knowing. 

“A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” — Eleanor Roosevelt 

I wish there were another way, but it’s true. For many of us, we are shaped by the women who raised us, and to honor them, we continue to carry their legacy forward.

Now, over to you: Which quote do you agree or disagree with? Do you have one of your own? Share below!