For many of us, Walt Disney is more than just the man who built wonderful theme parks. He is the man who has become so ingrained in our lives that we can’t imagine life without him. Between the movies, characters, theme parks, resort hotels, radio, television networks and more, there really isn’t a day that some part of the Walt Disney Company does not touch your life. Walter Elias Disney has become more than just a household name; he is an American legend and icon. Aside from being an entrepreneur, animator, voice actor, producer, philanthropist, and business magnate, he was also quite influential and inspiring. Since his death in 1966, Walt Disney has been quoted in books, magazines and television specials and his words remain timeless. He was a master at understanding human success, emotion and drive. I have compiled a list of some of my favorite Walter Elias Disney quotes, some inspiring, some cheeky and some just beyond his time.
#10 “I love Mickey Mouse more than any woman I’ve ever known.”-You Must Remember This
Oh, how many people agree with you, Mr. Disney! I think part of Mickey Mouse’s appeal is the true love that Walt had for that fantastic little mouse! I remember the first time I ever saw Mickey Mouse in person at Walt Disney World, I felt like Walt was waiting around the corner. It’s hard not to think about Walt when you are thinking about Mickey, isn’t it?
#9 “A person should set his goals as early as he can and devote all his energy and talent to getting there. With enough effort, he may achieve it. Or he may find something that is even more rewarding. But in the end, no matter what the outcome, he will know he has been alive.”-Walt Disney: Magician of the Movies
I have met many people who do not apply much effort to their dreams and goals. I often feel that Walt Disney is a wonderful role model to struggling youth and even those that have lost hope along the way. And, I love that Walt also discusses the feeling of being “alive,” something I hope to continue feeling in my journey through life!
#8 “It’s a mistake not to give people a chance to learn to depend on themselves while they are young.” –The Quotable Walt Disney
When I look back on how much Walt accomplished in his life, it reminds me that once we step away from childhood, we must be able to stand on our own two feet and be responsible for their actions and successes. I often wonder if Walt would have had the same successes unless he was able to do this himself!
#7 “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.”-end credits, Meet the Robinsons
Thank you for being so curious, Mr. Disney. It has led to the entertainment of our lifetime!
#6 “When we do fantasy, we must not lose sight of reality.”-Be Our Guest
Part of the reason we love Walt’s work so much is the reality piece. In the movies, the love story, though usually based in fantasy, has that reality that makes little girls dream of a prince! Even the rides have elements of reality! After all, pure fantasy is fun, but reality is what makes it worthwhile.
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#5 “I could never convince the financiers that Disneyland was feasible, because dreams offer too little collateral.”– The Stuff Americans are Made of
With the success that we know Disneyland is today, it is amazing that it was once a dream. If it proves anything, this quote tells me that any dream I have is worth it. I hope it does for you, too.
#4 “Laughter is America’s most important export.”- The Quotable Walt Disney
I have never met someone who does not love to laugh. There may be days that you can’t laugh due to many different reasons, but laughter is a major factor in our lives and happiness. Walt knew what laughter could do for human heart, but also knew what it could do for America.
#3 “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.”-Pearls: Philosophies for Living a Robust and Fulfilling Life
Coming from today’s perspective, it is hard to fathom that Walt ever had obstacles or troubles. However, it is fascinating to read about Walt’s life, trials and tribulations. If you use Walt for inspiration to pursue your dreams and goals, it’s good to know that some adversity and a few downs may help you reach the ups you desire!
#2 “That’s the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up.”-The Quotable Walt Disney
Life is too much sometimes. Bills, mortgages, tuitions, responsibilities and more can get in the way of the fun. Thank goodness for us, Walt Disney took the time to give us all more in our lives to enjoy and never let the child within be too far gone.
#1 “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible”-Animated Architecture
Thank you, Walt, for doing the impossible and making it seem so, so possible.
Bonus Quote- And, with these fun quotes, I leave you with just one more…”I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing — that it was all started by a mouse.”-What Is Disneyland
