When I think about overcoming hardship in the face of adversity, so many great leaders, creators, activists  and artists come to mind. Walt Disney is among these, shining a beacon of light in times of trouble (did anyone else sing ‘mother Mary comes to me’ after that?). From the bravest acts of courage to the seemingly smallest intentional acts of altruism, every thought that enters our minds can mean the difference between feeling out of control and having faith that this too shall pass. 

It’s no secret that Walt had a tough road ahead; the big cheese himself was a means to an end in regards to the animation studio. But that doesn’t make him any less special, to Walt or to the fans. When  the Walt Disney company was first founded, the creative genius (who never referred to himself as an artist, but an idea man) was met with challenges and naysayers; even those who told him that having a theme park dedicated to his beloved creations was a pipe dream. Instead of bowing out, Disney decided to go a different route, one of hope and forward motion. Let’s reflect on some inspiring words of wisdom from the man himself- Walter Elias Disney.

1. ‘In bad times and good, I’ve never lost my zest   for life.’

Having a zeal for life can be challenging in the good and especially the bad times, but it is essential in moving forward. So many things prohibit us from fully embracing our passion, what we feel as though  our ‘calling’ is. And there are certainly times I have given into the little guy on my shoulder saying ‘you’ll never accomplish that, why even try?’ Hanging onto what breathes life into you during the good as well as the tough and uncertain times is what makes you so uniquely you. Can you imagine if Walt Disney had lost his passion? I, for one, wouldn’t have – or at least, would have – a very different passion. 

2. ‘Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future.’

It can be difficult to focus on the future; and also confusing. With all of the talk of living in the present moment, which of course is also sound advice, looking to the future whilst enjoying the present moment is advice to live by. Most of us, especially my fellow creatives, will never truly feel as though we are where we want to be. ‘Tis the nature of humanity to constantly achieve and not feel accomplished. But changing and growing with your community, environment, business and family will keep your feet planted firmly on the ground as well as looking to the future with new ideas and optimism. 

3. ‘Everyone falls down. Getting back up is how you learn to walk.’

A little louder for those in the back! Walt was known for not only his out and out brilliance but his simple profoundness. I think most of us would agree that hitting the bullseye each and every time, regardless of the situation is an impossibility. Seriously, nobody, and I do mean nobody gets the proverbial it right the first time – not even Walt! That coveted feeling of security doesn’t come from never making a mistake, it comes from learning from them. 

4. ‘Never get bored or cynical. Yesterday is a thing of the past.’

At point in fact, this quote puzzled me at first glance. It took me a minute to understand the connection between combating boredom and cynicism and not dwelling on yesterday. But on second ponder, it all made perfect sense. We often dwell, focus, or become obsessed with what was, leaving us bored and cynical. Tying into so many other Walt Disney quotes, mentioned on this list and beyond, moving forward with vigor and optimism is the name of the game. 

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

We spend so much of our lives telling ourselves, and others, not to fret the past and to stay busy and happy… but why is it such a hard concept to grasp? Admittedly, I’ve spent hours meditating and deep breathing in extended child’s pose trying way too hard to push down the worries of what once was. In today’s ‘information at your fingertips’ society, it’s hard not to fret. But the fact remains that worry is the most loathsome tool in the toolbox. If you’ve studied for that test, prepared that speech or powerpoint, or even done everything you can to make a not-so ideal situation the best, relax and take a beat, you deserve it, after all!

There is literally a Walt quote to ease – if only slightly – any suffering, anxiety or fear that creeps into our minds. One of the many things I love so much about Walt is that he was not an eternal optimist but rather a child at heart who was well aware of the perils of this world, but chose to create (and of course, ittirate) tools for us to see the light, should we choose to do so. Hold so tightly to your dreams that you can’t imagine a world without them, and most of all, keep moving forward. There is a great, big beautiful tomorrow at the end of every day!