Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.
About this quote
A standout line from Thich Nhat Hanh, this quote distills a lesson about courage into 20 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 “Sometimes your joy is the source of your…”?
This quote is attributed to Thich Nhat Hanh.
What is the meaning of this quote?
At its heart, this line speaks to courage — reminding us that lasting progress comes from intention, effort and perspective. Thich Nhat Hanh captures that idea in just 20 words.
What theme does this quote belong to?
It falls under the theme of Courage 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 courage.
More from Thich Nhat Hanh
Discover the life, work and other memorable words of Thich Nhat Hanh.
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