17 Inspiring Quotes from Women to Crush Your Goals and Conquer Your Biggest Challenges

Feeling a little stuck? A little stumped? A little useless? All of us have felt like this at some point. Sometimes, a single word is all it takes to light a fire within you–inspiring you to do things you never imagined possible.

In these 17 quotes by powerful women from all walks of life, you’ll find the encouragement you need to push your limits, chase your dreams, and reach your full potential. Whether you’re starting up a new business, kicking off a new project at work, or simply need to be reminded of what you’re capable of, these words will lift you up and spur you on.

Go ahead, dive in, and get inspired–let these kickass women show you a whole new level of what you can achieve, and what you can be.

1. “Embrace what you don’t know, especially in the beginning, because what you don’t know can become your greatest asset.” Sara Blakely

2. “I raise up my voice–not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” Malala Yousafzai

3. “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Shirley Chisholm

4. “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” Alice Walker

5. “It is the ultimate luxury to combine passion and contribution. It’s also a very clear path to happiness.” Sheryl Sandberg

6. “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Maya Angelou

7. “Champions keep playing until they get it right.” Billie Jean King

8. “You can have it all. Just not all at once.” Oprah Winfrey

9. “A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.” Melinda French Gates

10. “What you believe, remember, you can achieve.” Mary Kay Ash

11. “I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” Rosa Parks

12. “The most important thing is to enjoy your life–to be happy–it’s all that matters.” Audrey Hepburn

13. “The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity.” Amelia Earhart

14. “Whatever you do, be different.” Anita Roddick

15. “Hard work keeps the wrinkles out of the mind and spirit.” Helena Rubinstein.

16. “People respond well to those that are sure of what they want.” Anna Wintour

17. “Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” Ella Fitzgerald