Editor Sara Habibipour chose as her theme for the week “Mottos We Live By.” In these times of uncertainty, she says, sometimes you just need the right words.

Need some advice? Look no further. Blogger Elizabeth turns to Latin quotes for inspiration. After all, everything sounds better in Latin.

By Elizabeth Shay

I have always been interested in the Latin language. It’s so aesthetic and sounds so sophisticated. Also, some pretty profound things have been said in Latin (some of which made an appearance in my college applications). I’m sure they’ve been said in English as well, but they look and sound way cooler in Latin. Here are eight of the quotes I live by, Latin edition.

• Disce quasi semper victurus vive quasi cras moriturus 

Learn as if you’re always going to live; live as if tomorrow you’re going to die

Live, Laugh, Learn, Love; YOLO.

• Acta non Verba 

Actions not words

This is one of the quotes that made an appearance in my college application. It’s all about follow-through, about doing–not just saying. I strive to live by this phrase and hope others in my life do as well.

• Noli foras ire, in teipsum reddi; in interiore homine habitat veritas 

Don’t lose yourself, return to you, inside of you lives the truth–Augustine

Essentially, this is the quote “be true to yourself” (but a better version because it’s in Latin).

• Ab alio expectes alteri quod feceris 

Expect to receive such treatment as you have given–Seneca

This is the golden rule at its finest.

• Aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem 

In adversity, remember to keep an even mind–Horace 

Keep calm and carry on even in times of trouble.

• Multo autem ad rem magis pertinent quallis tibi vide aris quam allis 

It is much more important what you think of yourself, than what others think of you–Seneca

Who cares what others think? You’ll be much happier when you brush off others’ negativity and focus on what makes you happy and self-fulfilled.

• Sapere aude 

Dare to be wise–Horace

This is the other quote that was incorporated into my college application essays; I want to learn as much as I can in my lifetime, and knowledge is power–take it from Horace.

• Experientia docet 

Experience teaches

This one nearly goes without saying. Everything you go through in your life is a learning experience. If you’re not learning, you’re rolling in your mistakes.

If you’re ever feeling fancy, drop these quotes into conversation and impress your friends and family. What are some words you live by?

Sources:

“351 Cool Latin Quotes – Wise words every man should know.” @ manintelligence.com

Motto Editor: Sara Habibipour