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Dream Big, Laugh Hard: Walt Disney’s Most Inspiring Words

Need a little pick-me-up? Who better to look to for inspiration than Walt Disney himself? Check out our favorite Walt Disney quotes that motivate and inspire below!

As one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, “Uncle Walt” continues to inspire us to dream, believe, and achieve. His timeless wisdom resonates with people of all ages, reminding us of the power of perseverance and creativity.

Let’s dive into some of our favorite Walt Disney quotes that keep us motivated.

walt disney in a top hat
Credit: Walt Disney Archives

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

Isn’t that the truth? Often, we get bogged down by the overwhelming big picture, and anxiety keeps us from getting started.

Walt reminds us that, whether we’re ready or not, sometimes you just have to jump in and begin.

fletcher markle and walt disney at burbank studios in 1963
Credit: Walt Disney Archives

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible!”

Who hasn’t enjoyed proving the naysayers wrong by accomplishing what everyone said couldn’t be done?

Walt knew long before we did that defying expectations can be incredibly satisfying.

Walt Disney explaining something
Credit: Disney Archives

“Around here, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things because we’re curious, and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

Progress is key to success and relevance, and Walt understood this long before the first park updates or re-imaginings.

This quote is a reminder that curiosity is a powerful force for growth and exploration.

Walt Disney works with audio-animatronic
Credit: Disney Archives

“Courage is the main quality of leadership, in my opinion, no matter where it is exercised. Usually, it implies some risk—especially in new undertakings.”

Walt faced many failures before he succeeded, and this quote encourages us to embrace the challenges and risks that come with leadership.

His example reminds us that nothing worth doing is ever easy.

walt disney and children
Credit: Walt Disney Family Archives

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”

This piece of wisdom reminds us that we can achieve great things, but we must push past our fears and take action.

With courage, anything is possible.

Walt Disney explaining something
Credit: Disney Archives

“Why worry? If you’ve done the very best you can, then worrying won’t make it any better.”

Walt had a knack for calming our anxieties with his wisdom. While it’s easier said than done, this advice is spot on. Worrying won’t make things better—do your best and move forward.

(Note: This quote is commonly attributed to Walt Disney, but it’s not always officially sourced. It has appeared in many discussions of his wisdom.)

Credit: Walt Disney archives

“First, think. Second, dream. Third, believe. And finally, dare.”

This four-step formula for success is simple yet effective.

The final step, “dare,” is crucial. Courage is what turns a dream into a reality.

walt disney at sleeping beauty castle during construction of Disneyland
Credit: Walt Disney Archives

“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me…you may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”

This one might be hard to hear, but it’s true. Adversity often strengthens us, even when we don’t realize it in the moment.

The hardships we face can shape us into something stronger. Like the blacksmith’s forge, the heat may shape you into something new and better.

walt disney
Credit: Disney Archives

“Get a good idea and stay with it. Dog it, and work at it until it’s done right.”

Uncle Walt speaks from experience here. In a world full of people saying “no,” persistence is key.

Keep looking for that “yes.” Believe in your dream and don’t stop until you make it happen.

walt disney with characters
Credit: Walt Disney Archives

“I could never convince the financiers that Disneyland was feasible because dreams offer too little collateral.”

This quote highlights two key lessons. First, it reinforces the idea that if you can dream it, you can do it.

Secondly, it serves as a reminder to not dismiss things too easily. Imagine being the investor who said, “No, Disneyland will fail!”—how different the world would be today if that had been the case.

Judge what you invest your efforts in carefully, but don’t be afraid to take risks. And finally, a ‘bonus quote’ for the Disney kid in all of us:

walt disney at his burbank studios
Credit: Walt Disney Archives

“Why do we have to grow up? I know more adults who have the children’s approach to life. They’re people who don’t care what the Jones’ do. You see them at Disneyland every time you go there. They are not afraid to be delighted with simple pleasures, and they have a degree of contentment with what life has brought – sometimes it isn’t much, either.”

This quote perfectly captures the essence of why we love Disney. It reminds us that embracing the childlike wonder of life can lead to true joy, and sometimes it’s the simple pleasures that make life magical.

We hope that these quotes inspire you to reach for your dreams and keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. Have you got a Walt Disney quote that has stuck with you and that should be on this list? Let us know in the comments!

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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