However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. It matters that you don’t just give up.
Stephen Hawking
These words spoken by Stephen Hawking at the London Paralympics opening ceremony in 2012 became a rallying cry, encouraging athletes and spectators alike to channel their inner determination and give their all.
In the years since Stephen Hawking’s passing, his message has been celebrated as a powerful testament to perseverance in the face of adversity, something he knew only too well.
Life would be tragic if it weren’t funny.
Stephen Hawking
Beyond his groundbreaking scientific work, Stephen Hawking was also known for his wit. In a 2004 New York Times interview, this was Hawking’s response to journalist Deborah Solomon’s question, asking about his outlook on life’s difficulties. With it, he reminded us that humour can be a powerful tool for resilience. You can now find this quote frequently reprinted and even on merchandise.
People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining.
Stephen Hawking
Hawking shared this perspective in a 2005 Guardian interview. When asked if he ever resented his disability, Hawking’s reply was a candid and thought-provoking quote.
“It is a waste of time to be angry about my disability… One has to get on with life… People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining.”
Here, he was essentially revealing his personal coping strategy: stay positive and practical. Focus on what can be done, rather than what can’t.
Work gives you meaning and purpose, and life is empty without it.
Stephen Hawking
This quote comes from a 2010 ABC interview and forms part of his advice to the next generation. These words encompass Hawking’s view on how his work helped to sustain his sense of purpose, it was the force that gave structure and meaning to his life. This perspective is often cited to motivate those trying to find their ideal career paths and to find passion in their day-to-day work.
Hawking himself credited this outlook as one of the reasons he managed to outlive his initial diagnosis.
Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see, and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious.
Stephen Hawking
In this inspiring quote, Hawking evokes a feeling of curiosity. This isn’t the first time Stephen Hawking has inspired people to “look up”, as similar words were mentioned in the Paralymics opening ceremony.
On one level, this is a call to wonder at the universe, on another it’s a reminder to not to let ourselves be consumed by our immediate struggles or limitations. Keep an open outlook and keep pushing on to discover the undiscovered.
If you are lucky enough to find love, remember it is rare and don’t throw it away.
Stephen Hawking
Another quote from his iconic 2010 ABC interview, this is his advice he wished to pass on to his children. Hawking wished for his children to hold onto love when it comes, and not to give up on it easily. This revealed a much softer side to Hawking, and showed that despite his huge passion and commitment to science, love was a part of life he held dear. Hawking had two marriages in his life, one to his college love, another to his nurse, and had three children.
It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people you love.”
Stephen Hawking
This particular quote was shared by his family shortly after his death in 2018. It’s not confirmed when this was initially spoken, it may have been first shared privately, but it was a sentiment his family cherished and helped to express their loss. It gives further insight into the emotional background behind the world-renowned scientist and provides a sense that science and love can be intertwined in life.
While there’s life, there is hope.
Stephen Hawking
Hawking shared this line in a 2006 interview with People’s Daily Online. Though it arose in the context of a serious discussion about assisted dying, the words themselves transcend that debate. At their core his words reflect an outlook of optimism. It is a reminder that as long as life continues, so does the possibility for wonder, discovery and joy.
For Hawking, who lived decades beyond his original prognosis, this sentiment was a lived reality. His perseverance embodies the message that hope can always be found even in the most challenging circumstances.
Despite having a 2 year terminal diagnosis when he was 21, Hawking was a notable example of living life to the full, and experiencing the most you can no matter what life throws at you.
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