Life is like stepping onto a boat which is about to sail out to sea and sink.
About this quote
A standout line from Shunryu Suzuki, this quote distills a lesson about dreams into 17 unforgettable words. It has resonated with readers for generations — the sort of wisdom worth writing on a wall, and one of the 1,000 most powerful motivational quotes we’ve gathered.
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Frequently asked
Who said “Life is like stepping onto a boat which …”?
This quote is attributed to Shunryu Suzuki.
What is the meaning of this quote?
At its heart, this line speaks to dreams — reminding us that lasting progress comes from intention, effort and perspective. Shunryu Suzuki captures that idea in just 17 words.
What theme does this quote belong to?
It falls under the theme of Dreams in the Top 1000 collection.
Why is this quote motivational?
Short, memorable and rooted in real experience, it's the kind of line you can return to whenever you need a push toward dreams.
More from Shunryu Suzuki
Discover the life, work and other memorable words of Shunryu Suzuki.
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