Top 150 Control Quotes (With Meanings)

Control quotes are powerful sayings that can inspire and motivate us to take charge of our lives. They remind us that we have the ability to shape our own destinies and influence the world around us. Whether it’s about personal growth, leadership, or taking responsibility, these quotes can help us find strength and courage. Encouraging words from famous figures and thinkers can guide us during challenging times and boost our confidence.

Today, we will share some of the best control quotes that can empower you. Each quote has a unique message, and they can serve as daily reminders to realize your potential. Let these words encourage you to take action and steer your life in the direction you want.

Control Quotes

“The only thing we can control is our own actions.”Cheryl Strayed

This quote reminds us that while we may not be able to control everything around us, our actions are completely within our power. By focusing on what we can change, we empower ourselves to make positive steps forward and create our own circumstances.

“You cannot control your past, but you can control your future.”Unknown

This saying highlights the importance of taking charge of our own lives. Although we cannot change what has already happened, we have the ability to make choices that shape our future. This reminder can motivate us to leave behind past mistakes and focus on building the future we desire.

“What we fear doing most is usually what we most need to do.”Tim Ferriss

When we confront our fears, we reclaim control over our lives. This quote encourages us to face what intimidates us, suggesting that overcoming fear is essential for personal growth and achieving our goals.

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”Lao Tzu

This quote teaches us that in order to control our destiny, we must first release the constraints of our current identities. By letting go of who we think we are, we open up to new possibilities and allow transformation.

“We may not be able to control our circumstances, but we can control how we respond to them.”Bonnie St. John

This quote emphasizes the importance of our reactions to life’s challenges. We don’t always have control over events, but we can choose our attitude and response. This reminds us that personal empowerment comes from our reactions.

“There is no way to happiness; happiness is the way.”Thich Nhat Hanh

In this quote, we’re reminded that control over our happiness comes from within. Instead of seeking external sources for joy, we should focus on cultivating happiness in our everyday lives. This holistic approach can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment.

“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”Marcus Aurelius

This quote encourages us to recognize the strength we have in controlling our thoughts and mindset. By focusing on our internal dialogue, we can cultivate a more resilient perspective and take charge of how we experience life.

“To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan and not quite enough time.”Leonard Bernstein

Bernstein’s quote illustrates the importance of setting goals and taking swift action. By creating a plan and setting deadlines, we can maintain control over our progress and propel ourselves towards achieving greatness.

“Your life is your story, and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfill your own potential.”Kerry Washington

Taking control of our lives means understanding that we are the authors of our own stories. This quote inspires us to embrace our unique journeys, empowering us to fulfill our potential as we work towards not only our individual goals but dreams as well.

“People are always blaming their parents for their troubles. The entire idea of blaming someone else is a way of avoiding responsibility.”Elizabeth T. Gilbert

In this quote, Gilbert encourages us to take ownership of our actions and outcomes, rather than deflecting blame onto others. Acceptance of responsibility is essential for personal growth and gaining control over our lives.

“In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.”Lewis Carroll

This quote urges us to take risks and seize opportunities. Not taking action can lead to regret, but by exercising control over our decisions, we can embrace the possibilities that life offers. This encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and explore new horizons.

“You may find the worst enemy or best friend in yourself.”Swiss Proverb

Here, we are reminded that our greatest potential lies within. We must learn to balance our inner critic with self-acceptance. This self-awareness is key to gaining control over our thoughts and fostering our personal growth.

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”Albert Schweitzer

This quote encourages us to focus on passion rather than external definitions of success. By embracing what makes us happy, we take control of our paths and build a life that feels meaningful to us, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment.

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”Maya Angelou

Angelou reminds us that we have the power to either change our situations or shift our perspectives. Taking control of our attitudes can help us navigate challenges with resilience and optimism.

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”Peter Drucker

This quote speaks to the power we have in shaping our own lives. By taking proactive steps, we can influence our futures rather than waiting for things to happen. This sense of control is empowering.

“The mind is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master.”David Foster Wallace

Here, Wallace reminds us that we must take control of our thoughts rather than allowing them to dictate our emotions and actions. A proactive mindset enables us to live more fulfilling lives and achieve our goals consciously.

“Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.”Charles R. Swindoll

This quote reinforces the idea that our responses play a significant role in our experiences. When we focus on our reactions, we can better control our experiences rather than becoming victims to our circumstances.

“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.”William James

In this quote, we are reminded of the power of our thoughts in managing stress. By taking control of our minds and choosing positivity, we can better handle challenging situations.

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.”Steve Jobs

This quote encourages us to find and listen to our own voice amid the chaos. By trusting ourselves, we take control of our decisions and pave our paths in life with confidence.

“Take control of your own destiny or someone else will.” Jack Welch

Welch reminds us that we must actively pursue our dreams rather than allowing others to dictate our paths. By taking charge of our lives, we can fulfill our aspirations and steer our stories towards success.

“Self-control is strength. Right thought is mastery. Calmness is power.”James Allen

This quote teaches that inner strength and calmness stem from self-control and sound thinking. By mastering our thoughts and emotions, we hold the key to personal power and resilience.

“Confidence is not ‘they will like me.’ Confidence is ‘I’ll be fine if they don’t.’Christina Grimmie

Grimmie’s quote encourages us to embrace self-assurance and independence. By finding confidence in ourselves, we take control of our lives and do not rely solely on external validation.

“Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.”George Addair

This quote challenges us to confront our fears. By stepping out of our comfort zones, we gain control and open doors to opportunities previously thought unattainable, leading to personal advancement.

“You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody.”Maya Angelou

Angelou emphasizes that self-acceptance is vital for taking control of our lives. Recognizing our worth allows us to move forward confidently, without feeling the need for validation from others.

“Success is a series of small wins.”Anonymous

This quote encourages us to find joy and control in the small victories that lead to success. By celebrating each achievement, we’re motivated to continue working towards larger goals.

“We can do anything we want to if we stick to it long enough.”Helen Keller

Keller’s words inspire determination and resilience as we work toward our goals. By exercising control over our ambitions and committing to them, we can achieve remarkable things.

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”William James

This quote serves as a reminder of our impact on the world. By choosing to act thoughtfully, we take control of our influence and contribute positively to our communities.

“Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.”George S. Patton

Patton’s quote illustrates the importance of resilience in controlling our paths. Bouncing back from setbacks shows strength and determination, leading us to eventual success.

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.”Theodore Roosevelt

This quote highlights the power of belief in our abilities. By having faith in ourselves, we take control over our mindset, boosting our chances of success in anything we pursue.

“Let your faith be bigger than your fear.”Anonymous

This reminder urges us to lean on our beliefs to combat fears. By fostering faith in ourselves and our abilities, we can take control of our actions and aspirations.

“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”Vince Lombardi

Lombardi emphasizes the importance of resilience in moments of challenge. By choosing to rise after setbacks, we exert control over our paths and continue pushing forward toward success.

“We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”Ronald Reagan

This quote encourages collective responsibility, reminding us that our actions matter. Taking control of how we help others can lead to positive change in our communities and lives.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”Eleanor Roosevelt

Roosevelt’s words remind us that belief in our dreams allows us to take control of our futures. By nurturing our aspirations, we create pathways toward achieving our visions and desires.

“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.”Oprah Winfrey

Winfrey’s quote inspires us to take control by asking for what we want. By advocating for ourselves, we open doors and create opportunities that align with our aspirations.

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”Wayne Gretzky

This saying encourages us to take risks and seize opportunities. By choosing to take action, we exert control over our lives and increase our chances for success and fulfillment.

“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.”Franklin D. Roosevelt

Roosevelt reminds us that self-doubt holds us back from achieving our dreams. By managing our doubts, we gain control over our ambitions and create brighter futures.

“Change your thoughts and you change your world.”Norman Vincent Peale

Peale encourages us to direct our thoughts positively to influence our realities. Taking control of our mindset shapes our experiences and can lead to a more fulfilling life.

“Whatever you are, be a good one.”Abraham Lincoln

This quote encourages us to embrace our individuality. By putting our best foot forward, we take control of our contributions and define our paths in unique ways.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”Jon Kabat-Zinn

Here, we are reminded that while we can’t control external events, we can learn to adapt. Managing our responses allows us to navigate challenges effectively, leading to personal growth.

“If you are not willing to risk the usual, you will have to settle for the ordinary.”Jim Rohn

This quote urges us to take smart risks in pursuit of extraordinary lives. By stepping out of our comfort zones, we can gain control over our destinies and achieve remarkable outcomes.

“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”Albert Einstein

Einstein reminds us that mistakes are part of growth. By taking control of our learning experiences, we can use our failures as stepping stones to success. This encourages a mindset of bravery.

“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”Confucius

This quote serves as a reminder that the way we view the world impacts our experiences. By cultivating a positive outlook, we gain control and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

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

Disney encourages us to take action and stop procrastinating. Taking charge of our plans moves us towards our goals and leads to meaningful accomplishments.

“Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly.”John F. Kennedy

This quote teaches us that taking risks comes with uncertainty. Control comes from embracing the possibility of failure, which positions us to achieve greatness through perseverance.

“Empower others and you will be empowered.”Brandon McCarthy

This quote speaks to the interconnectedness of empowerment. By lifting others, we take control of our communities and foster a culture of support and shared success.

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”William James

This quote serves as a reminder of our impact on the world. By choosing to act thoughtfully, we take control of our influence and contribute positively to our communities.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even heard, but must be felt with the heart.”Helen Keller

Keller emphasizes the significance of inner experiences over outward appearances. Focusing on emotions enables us to take control of our happiness and appreciation of life’s beauty.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”Lao Tzu

This quote highlights that personal progress starts with small actions. By taking that first step, we seize control of our journeys and move closer to achieving our goals.

“Nothing is impossible; the word itself says ‘I’m possible!'”Audrey Hepburn

Hepburn’s quote is an empowering reminder that we can achieve what we set our minds to. Believing in our capabilities allows us to take control of our outcomes and defy limitations.

“Remember why you started.”Unknown

This saying encourages us to hold onto our motivations. By reconnecting with our initial drive, we gain control over our journey and persist against challenges that may arise.

“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.”Booker T. Washington

Washington reminds us of the importance of mutual support. By helping others, we take control of our relationships and contribute to collective growth and enrichment.

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”Steve Jobs

This quote urges us to find our own paths. Taking control of our lives enables us to pursue our dreams fully, making the best use of our precious time.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”Steve Jobs

Jobs’ quote emphasizes the connection between passion and achievement. By nurturing our passions, we assert control over our experiences and create fulfilling work in our lives.

“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”George Bernard Shaw

This quote inspires us to take control and actively shape our identities rather than waiting to discover ourselves. Through thoughtful creation, we can evolve into who we want to be.

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”C. S. Lewis

Lewis emphasizes that it’s never too late to take control of our aspirations. Setting new goals reignites our passions and allows us to shape our lives continuously.

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”Suzanne Collins

Collins’ quote reminds us that self-doubt is often more damaging than failure itself. By exercising control over our thoughts, we can forge ahead and chase our dreams with confidence.

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

Walker reminds us of the importance of recognizing our own power. By taking control of our minds and abilities, we can harness our potential and enact meaningful change.

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”A.A. Milne

This quote inspires us to acknowledge our inner strength. By taking control of our self-perception, we empower ourselves to confront challenges with confidence.

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.”Vivian Greene

Greene’s words remind us that we can control our responses to life’s challenges. By finding joy amid adversity, we can navigate difficulties with resilience and strength.

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”Henry David Thoreau

This quote encourages us to take control of our endeavors and focus on hard work. By being devoted to our passions, success often follows naturally, rather than simply waiting for opportunities.

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.”Cicero

Cicero reminds us that gratitude shapes our perspectives and behaviors. Cultivating a grateful attitude enables us to take control of our reactions and relationships in life.

“The way we see the problem is the problem.”Stephen R. Covey

This quote highlights that our perceptions influence our experiences. By changing how we view challenges, we take control of our responses and outcomes, allowing for growth and improvement.

“We all have the ability to influence others, whether we realize it or not.”John C. Maxwell

This reminder emphasizes that we can control the impact we have on others. By using our influence positively, we can create change and uplift the lives of those around us.

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”Maya Angelou

Angelou encourages us to focus on meaningful experiences rather than simply existing. By seeking and controlling those special moments, we create a more fulfilling life.

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.”Henry Ford

Ford emphasizes that failures are not the end, but rather opportunities for growth. By choosing to learn from our mistakes, we gain control over our paths and improve our chances for future success.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”Eleanor Roosevelt

Roosevelt reminds us that taking control of our futures starts with believing in our aspirations. Embracing our dreams propels us forward, allowing us to shape our desired outcomes.

“Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.”Sam Levenson

Levenson’s quote encourages us to control our time effectively by staying focused on our tasks instead of being distracted. Continuous action propels us toward achieving our goals.

“We can do anything we want to if we stick to it long enough.”Helen Keller

Keller’s quote inspires persistence in achieving our dreams. By taking control of our commitment and dedication, we can overcome obstacles and find success.

“Make each day your masterpiece.”John Wooden

This quote invites us to take control of our experiences every day. By choosing to live purposefully, we can create meaningful moments that shape our lives positively.

“If you can dream it, you can do it.”Walt Disney

Disney’s quote inspires us to turn our dreams into reality. By believing in our capabilities, we take control of our paths and work towards our aspirations with confidence.

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”Winston S. Churchill

Churchill emphasizes that both success and failure are part of life. Taking control means having the courage to keep moving forward regardless of the ups and downs we face.

“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.”William Butler Yeats

This quote encourages us to take initiative and create opportunities. By actively pursuing our goals, we seize control and influence outcomes rather than waiting for chances to come.

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss reminds us of our ability to take control of our paths. Fostering our intelligence and determination allows us to chart our courses toward our goals and dreams.

“The only way to achieve the impossible is to believe it is possible.”Charles Kingsleigh

This quote inspires us to believe in our abilities and pursue what seems unattainable. By taking control of our mindset, we can recognize and work towards achieving extraordinary outcomes.

Final Thoughts

As we have explored, control is an empowering concept that comes from within. By focusing on what we can change, we can steer our lives towards our aspirations and dreams. All the quotes shared today serve as reminders to embrace our strengths and take charge of our responses to challenges. Whether in our personal lives or the lives of those around us, our choices play a significant role in shaping our experiences.

We must cultivate a strong sense of self-belief and take action to influence our paths positively. Each day provides us with new opportunities to embrace change and grow. So let us remain bold in pursuing our goals and hold onto our dreams with courage and dedication.

If you want more inspiration, consider exploring comfort quotes or learn about navigating relationships with co-parenting quotes.