motivational speech essay for students

Motivation Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on motivation.

Everyone suggests other than the person lack motivation, or directly suggests the person remain motivated. But, no one ever tells what is the motivation of how one can stay motivated. Motivation means to face the obstacle and find an inspiration that helps you to go through tough times. In addition, it helps you to move further in life.

Meaning of Motivation

Motivation is something that cannot be understood with words but with practice. It means to be moved by something so strongly that it becomes an inspiration for you. Furthermore, it is a discipline that helps you to achieve your life goals and also helps to be successful in life .

Besides, it the most common practice that everyone does whether it is your boss in office or a school teacher or a university professor everyone motivates others in a way or other.

Role of Motivation

It is a strong tool that helps to get ahead in life. For being motivated we need a driving tool or goal that keeps us motivated and moves forward. Also, it helps in being progressive both physically and mentally.

Moreover, your goal does not be to big and long term they can be small and empowering. Furthermore, you need the right mindset to be motivated.

Besides, you need to push your self towards your goal no one other than you can push your limit. Also, you should be willing to leave your comfort zone because your true potential is going to revel when you leave your comfort zone.

Types of Motivation

Although there are various types of motivation according to me there are generally two types of motivation that are self- motivation and motivation by others.

Self-motivation- It refers to the power of someone to stay motivated without the influence of other situations and people. Furthermore, self-motivated people always find a way to reason and strength to complete a task. Also, they do not need other people to encourage them to perform a challenging task.

Motivation by others- This motivation requires help from others as the person is not able to maintain a self-motivated state. In this, a person requires encouragement from others. Also, he needs to listen to motivational speeches, a strong goal and most importantly and inspiration.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Motivation

Motivation is very important for the overall development of the personality and mind of the people. It also puts a person in action and in a competitive state. Furthermore, it improves efficiency and desire to achieve the goal. It leads to stability and improvement in work.

Above all, it satisfies a person’s needs and to achieve his/her goal. It helps the person to fight his negative attitude. The person also tries to come out of his/her comfort zone so that she/ he can achieve the goal.

To conclude, motivation is one of the key elements that help a person to be successful. A motivated person tries to push his limits and always tries to improve his performance day by day. Also, the person always gives her/his best no matter what the task is. Besides, the person always tries to remain progressive and dedicated to her/his goals.

FAQs about Motivation Essay

Q.1 Define what is motivation fit. A.1 This refers to a psychological phenomenon in which a person assumes or expects something from the job or life but gets different results other than his expectations. In a profession, it is a primary criterion for determining if the person will stay or leave the job.

Q.2 List some best motivators. A.2 some of the best motivators are:

• Inspiration
• Fear of failure
• Power of Rejection
• Don’t pity your self
• Be assertive
• Stay among positive and motivated people
• Be calm and visionary

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

T4Tutorials.com

Motivational speech for students [1, 2, 3, 4, 5 minutes], 1 minute motivational speech for students.

Dear students and teachers! School can be hard sometimes and that it’s normal to feel a little worried. I want you to remember, that you have the power to do truly amazing things! Problems and difficulties should not stop you from moving forward. Keep going, believe in yourself, and take every chance to learn new things and get better at what you already know. Do not lose sight of your goals, and always have faith in your own skills and expertise. Think of every day as a new journey, a chance to learn new and interesting things. Use these chances to grow as a person and try to become the best version of yourself. Remember that in your own story, you are like a superhero. Because of this, go out and show everyone how awesome you really are! Please don’t give up; keep working hard, and you will see the many amazing things that are possible. Have faith in yourself and keep working hard no matter what! You have the power to deal with problems!

I hope you all will consider and will follow my advices and always put yourself in hard work.

Thank you all.

Use Quotes of some internationally famous personalities in speech

• “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work.”
• “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
• “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”
• “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
• “It is impossible to live without failing at something unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default.”
• “Don’t count the days, make the days count.”
• “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'”
• “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
• “Strength does not come from the body. It comes from the will.”
• “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
• “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
• “You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.”
• “You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.”
• “The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.”
• “Success is most often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.”
• “The best way to predict your future is to create it.”

2 Minutes motivational speech for students

My dear teachers and students! I’m here to provide you with a brief pep talk to encourage and motivate you.I want you to realise right now that you are capable of greatness. You have the fortitude, tenacity, and intelligence to overcome whatever difficulties you may encounter and accomplish your objectives.

Never undervalue your abilities. You have the ability to control your future since you are the master of your own destiny. Never believe someone who tells you that you can’t do something; with determination and hard effort, you can do anything.

Keep in mind that mistakes are acceptable. Each person does. However, what matters is how you employ the lessons you acquire from them to advance yourself. Use setbacks as opportunities to grow stronger and more resilient rather than letting them hold you back.

So venture forth and use all of your strength to pursue your aspirations. Never lose hope and have faith in yourself. The world is eagerly awaiting your impact, and I am confident that you have what it takes to be successful.

Keep in mind that you are strong, capable, and meant for greatness. So go forth and bring it about!

5 Minutes motivational speech for students

Hello everyone

I am aware that studying can occasionally be challenging. It might be exhausting to feel such intense pressure to achieve well in school. However, I want you to keep in mind that each of you is able to accomplish great things. You possess the abilities, intelligence, and tenacity necessary for success.

The secret is to keep working hard and remaining focused. Don’t let obstacles or failures demotivate you. Instead, consider them as chances to improve and learn. And always keep in mind to take pauses and look after yourself. Your physical and emotional well-being are equally as significant as your academic endeavors.

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something, so keep moving forward. You will succeed if you have faith in your own ability and self-worth. You can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it.

I have faith in you and know you are capable of great things. So get out there and utilize your education to the fullest. Good fortune!

Examples of sentences that can be used in starting of this speech

Examples of sentences that can be used in closing of this speech, more speeches.

• Speech on women’s empowerment
• Speech on social media
• Speech on environment
• Speech on gender equality
• Speech on poverty
• Speech on Global Warming
• Speech on Environmental Pollution
• Speech on Earth Day
• Speech on Discipline
• Speech on Human Rights
• Speech on Education
• Motivational speech for students
• 2-minute Self-introduction speech examples
• Speech on Mahatma Gandhi
• Speech on freedom fighters
• Speech on APJ Abdul Kalam
• Speech about friendship
• Speech about Technology
• Speech on Parents
• Speech on Health
• Speech on Health and Fitness
• Speech on Health and Hygiene
• Speech on Mental health
• Speech on Yoga
• Speech on Doctor
• Speech about Life
• Speech on sports
• Speech on Racism
• Speech on Population or overpopulation
• Speech on Overcoming Fear
• Speech about Family
• Speech on Mobile Phones
• Speech on water conservation
• Speech on Honesty
• Speech on Culture
• Speech on Unity in diversity
• Speech on Peace
• Speech on Time
• Speech on Success
• Speech on Leadership
• Speech on Nature
• Speech on Career
• Speech about Music
• Speech on Democracy
• Speech on Noise Pollution
• Speech on Air Pollution
• Speech on Gratitude
• Speech on Time management
• Speech on Dance
• Speech on Climate Change
• Speech on Artificial Intelligence
• Speech on Cyber security
• Speech on Teamwork
• Speech on Goal Setting
• Speech on Plastic Waste Management
• Speech on Feminism
• Speech on Bhagat Singh
• Speech on Books
• Speech on Laughter is the Best Medicine
• Speech on Swami Vivekananda
• Speech on Road Safety
• Speech on Cyber Crime
• Speech on Energy Conservation
• Speech on Online Education
• Speech on Quaid-e-Azam
• Speech on Allama Iqbal
• Speech about Rainy Day
• Speech about Teachers’ day
• Speech about Graduation
• Speech about Love
• Speech about Football
• Speech about Money
• Speech about Anxiety
• Speech about Politics
• Speech about Nelson Mandela
• Speech about Kindness
• Speech about Cleanliness
• Speech about Deforestation
• Speech about Agriculture
• speech about Cricket
• Speech about Unemployment
• Speech about Birthday
• Speech about Patience
• Speech about the Value of Time
• Speech about Positive Thinking
• Speech about Knowledge is Power
• Speech about Games
• Speech about Indian Culture
• Speech about Appreciation
• Speech about Farming
• Speech about Debut
• Speech about Purpose
• Speech about Hardwork
• Speech about Thank you / Thankfulness / being thankful
• Speeches about Communication
• Speech about Dreams and ambitions 
• Speech about Confidence
• Speech about traveling and Tourism
• Speech about Corruption
• Speech about the millennial generation
• Speech about Success and Failure
• Speech about Environmental Awareness
• Speech about Life Goals
• Speech about Stress
• Speech about the Life of a Student
• Speech about Social Issues
• Speech about Mom
• Speech about God
• Speech about Plants
• Speech about Fashion
• Speech about Basketball
• Speech about Business
• Speech about Smile
• Speech about Animals
• Speech about Passion
• Speech about Youth Empowerment
• Speech about Youth Leadership
• Speech about Responsibility
• Speech about Plastic Pollution
• Speech about Courage
• Speech about Homework
• Short Speech about Engineering
• Speech about Positive Attitude
• Speech about Dad
• Speech about my Favourite Teacher
• Speech about Electricity
• Speech about pen
• Speech about Family Problems
• Speech about Compassion
• Speech about Achievement
• Speech about Challenges
• Speech about Modern Technology
• Speech about Opportunity
• Speech about Anti Corruption
• Speech about Nursing Profession
• Speech about Innovation
• Speech about Wisdom
• Speech about Air
• Speech about Change in the World
• Speech about Quality Education
• Speech about Dedication
• Speech about Motherhood
• Speech about Clean Environment
• Speech about National Integration
• Speech about Body Language
• Speech about an Event
• Speech about Healthy Habits
• Speech about Listening
• Speech about Humour
• Speech about Memory
• Speech about the Importance of Sports and Games
• Speech about Happy Life
• Speech about Growing up
• Speech about Soldiers
• Speech about Television
• Speech about my Favourite Book
• Speech about Mother Nature
• Speech about Moral Education
• Speech about Mathematics
• Speech about Perseverance
• Speech about Oral Communication
• Speech about My Pet
• Speech about Determination
• Speech about Studies
• Speech about community
• Speech about best friend
• Speech about depression
• Speech about marriage
• Speech on Natural disasters
•  Speech on 15 August
• Persuasive Speech on bulling
• Speech on life

Related Posts:

• E-Utility Service Provider, Android Project for CS and SE students
• Discrete Mathematics MCQs for Software Engineering Students
• Discrete Structure MCQs for Computer Science Students
• Remarks for students
• Common Mistakes in Every Final Year Projects - Most students have done
• Universities for low marks students Admission in Pakistan

Motivational Speech Topics: Inspiring Ideas to Empower and Energize

Did you know that the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali once said, 'Don't count the days; make the days count'? This powerful statement exemplifies the essence of motivational speeches – the ability to ignite a fire within, propel us toward success, and inspire us to embrace our full potential. Whether you're standing before a crowd or seeking personal motivation, the right choice of motivational speech topics can be the driving force that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.

Motivational Speech Topics: Short Summary

In this article, we'll explore a wide range of inspirational speech topics that will not only grab your audience's attention but also empower you to deliver a speech that resonates deeply. Whether you want to learn how to make a powerful speech, even as a dissertation topic , or find answers to common questions about giving it effectively, we're here to give you the tools and knowledge you need to create a memorable experience.

What is Motivational Speech: Understanding the Concept 

Before we dive into the topic ideas, let's first understand what a motivational speech is. It is a form of communication that aims to inspire and motivate individuals to take action, overcome challenges, and achieve personal and professional growth. Just like a reflective essay , motivational topics often draw upon personal experiences, anecdotes, and powerful storytelling to connect with the audience emotionally.

A motivational speech can be a powerful tool to uplift and empower people. It serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging individuals to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their dreams. When delivered effectively, a motivational speech has the potential to ignite a fire within individuals, pushing them to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

One of the key elements of motivational speech topics is its ability to resonate with the audience. By sharing personal experiences and relatable stories, speakers can establish a connection with their listeners, making the message more impactful and inspiring. Whether it's overcoming adversity, achieving success against all odds, or finding inner strength, a motivational speech can touch the hearts and minds of individuals, leaving a lasting impression.

Moreover, it is not limited to any specific context or setting. Interesting motivational speech topics can be delivered in various settings, such as educational institutions, corporate events, conferences, or even informal gatherings. The purpose of a motivational speech remains constant - to inspire and motivate individuals to take action and make positive changes in their lives.

Motivational Speech Example

To truly understand the impact of a well-crafted speech, it is essential to witness a clear example of what a good speech looks like. So, let us delve into this extraordinary example, as it paints a vivid picture of the transformative power of words, igniting within us the belief that we, too, can create a lasting impact through the power of our own voices.

Motivational Speech Structure: Crafting an Inspiring Framework

Imagine standing before a crowd, ready to inspire and uplift them with your words. But where do you begin? That's where the structure of a motivational speech comes into play, acting as your trusty guide on this exhilarating journey. Let's explore the key elements of writing a motivational speech from our essay writer and provide you with some exciting examples to get your creative juices flowing.

First, we have the attention-grabbing opening. Think of it as the 'hook' that captivates your audience right from the start. You can begin with a captivating story, a thought-provoking quote, or even a surprising fact that piques your curiosity.

For instance, let's say you're giving a speech about resilience. You could start by sharing a personal story of overcoming a daunting challenge and instantly engaging your listeners by connecting with them on an emotional level.

Next, we move on to the main body of your speech, where you'll delve further into your chosen topic. This is your opportunity to share motivational speech ideas by offering valuable insights, relatable examples, and real-life experiences that reinforce your message. Don't forget to embrace the captivating nature of storytelling. You can share inspiring personal stories, draw inspiration from historical events, or showcase renowned individuals who epitomize the core essence of your theme.

Continuing with our resilience example, you might discuss the incredible journey of Thomas Edison, who famously said, 'I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.' By sharing his story and emphasizing how he persisted in the face of adversity, you'll showcase the power of resilience and inspire your audience to adopt a similar mindset.

Last but not least, we have the grand finale – the conclusion of your speech. This is your opportunity to leave a lasting impact on your listeners by reinforcing your main message and providing a call to action. Encourage your audience to reflect on what they've learned and challenge them to apply it in their own lives. A memorable quote or a powerful statement can leave them feeling motivated long after the applause fades away.

100 Motivational Speech Topics for Students

Motivation is the fuel that drives students toward success, but sometimes even the most driven individuals can hit a roadblock and find themselves in need of an extra boost. In the following sections, our custom essay writer has curated a list of 100 captivating and thought-provoking motivational speech topics specifically tailored to resonate with students of all backgrounds. These topics for motivational speeches aim to ignite their passion, boost their confidence, and empower them to embrace their unique path toward achieving greatness.

Want to Leave Behind the Worries of Plagiarism Detection?

Use our essay plagiarism checker and embrace the confidence of submitting an original work that reflects your true abilities!

📚 Educational Topics

• The Power of Growth Mindset: Cultivating a Positive and Motivated Learning Attitude
• Overcoming Procrastination: Unlocking Productivity and Achieving Academic Success
• Building Resilience: Navigating Challenges and Bouncing Back Stronger
• Goal Setting for Student Success: Turning Dreams into Tangible Achievements
• Finding Passion in Learning: Reigniting Curiosity and Discovering Personal Motivation
• The Art of Effective Time Management: Maximizing Productivity and Balancing Academic Demands
• Overcoming Exam Anxiety: Strategies for Confidence and Peak Performance
• Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone: Learning from Setbacks and Building Resilience
• Unleashing Creativity in Education: Fostering Innovation and Motivation in the Classroom
• Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: Harnessing Motivation for Continuous Improvement

🌳 Environmental Topics

• The Urgency of Environmental Conservation: Motivating Action for a Sustainable Future
• Inspiring Eco-Consciousness: Igniting Passion for Environmental Responsibility
• Overcoming Apathy: Motivating Individuals to Take a Stand for the Environment
• Empowering Youth Activism: Harnessing the Power of Young Voices in Environmental Advocacy
• Sustainable Living: Motivating Lifestyle Changes for a Greener Planet
• Protecting Biodiversity: Motivating Efforts to Preserve Earth's Rich Natural Heritage
• Climate Change Action: Motivating Collective Responsibility for Mitigation and Adaptation
• Environmental Education: Inspiring the Next Generation of Stewards for a Healthy Planet
• Conservation Heroes: Stories of Inspiring Individuals Making a Difference in the Environment
• Green Innovation: Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Creativity for Environmental Solutions

📈 Business Motivational Speech Topics

• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Igniting the Drive to Start and Achieve Success in Business
• Leadership Excellence: Develop Practical Leadership Skills in Business
• Embracing Change: Motivating Adaptability and Innovation in the Business World
• Goal Setting for Business Success: Turning Vision into Actionable Steps
• Overcoming Obstacles: Building Resilience and Persistence in Business Ventures
• The Power of Teamwork: Motivating Collaboration and Achieving Collective Success
• Customer Centricity: Inspiring a Culture of Service and Building Lasting Relationships
• Financial Empowerment: Motivating Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation
• Strategic Thinking: Inspiring Vision and Planning for Business Growth
• Building a Purpose-Driven Business: Motivating Social Impact and Sustainability

💻 Motivational Speech Topics for College Students

• Embracing Your Potential: Unleashing the Power Within You
• The Journey of Self-Discovery: Finding Your Passion and Purpose
• Overcoming Fear of Failure: Embracing Risks and Learning from Setbacks
• Navigating Career Choices: Pursuing Your Dreams and Making an Impact
• Building Resilience: Thriving in the Face of Challenges and Adversity
• Balancing Priorities: Time Management and Goal Setting for College Success
• Harnessing the Power of Networking: Creating Meaningful Connections for Future Opportunities
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating Differences and Fostering Empathy
• Mental Health Matters: Cultivating Well-being and Self-Care in College Life
• The Power of Positive Thinking: Developing a Growth Mindset for Personal and Academic Success

📖 Motivational Speech Topics for High School Students

• Discovering Your Potential: Unlocking the Power Within You
• Embracing Failure: Learning and Growing from Setbacks
• The Power of Perseverance: Overcoming Challenges and Reaching Success
• Setting Goals for Success: Turning Dreams into Achievable Milestones
• Building Resilience: Bouncing Back Stronger in the Face of Adversity
• Unlocking Creativity: Embracing Innovation and Thinking Outside the Box
• Cultivating Positive Relationships: Nurturing Supportive Connections for Personal Growth
• The Importance of Self-Care: Prioritizing Well-being and Mental Health
• Making a Difference: Inspiring Youth Activism and Social Impact

🧘🏼‍♀️ Self-improvement Topics

• The Art of Mindfulness: Cultivating Present Moment Awareness for Inner Peace and Clarity
• Building Emotional Intelligence: Enhancing Self-Awareness and Empathy for Better Relationships
• Overcoming Procrastination: Unlocking Your Productivity Potential and Achieving Goals
• Developing Effective Study Habits: Maximizing Learning and Academic Success
• Cultivating a Positive Mindset: Harnessing Optimism and Self-Belief for Personal Growth
• Financial Wellness: Building Healthy Money Habits for a Secure Future
• Developing Effective Problem-Solving Skills: Embracing Critical Thinking and Decision Making
• The Power of Gratitude: Fostering Appreciation and Happiness in Everyday Life
• Unlocking Creativity: Tapping into Your Inner Artist and Innovator
• Developing Leadership Skills: Inspiring Others and Making a Positive Impact in Your Community

🔬 Science and Technology Topics

• Exploring the Wonders of Space: Motivating the Pursuit of Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Unleashing the Power of Artificial Intelligence: Inspiring Innovations in Machine Learning
• The Future of Renewable Energy: Motivating Sustainable Solutions for a Greener World
• Biotechnology Breakthroughs: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientific Innovators
• Cybersecurity: Motivating the Protection of Digital Systems and Privacy
• The Marvels of Nanotechnology: Inspiring Advancements in Materials Science
• Robotics Revolution: Motivating the Integration of Robotics in Various Industries
• Medical Breakthroughs: Inspiring the Pursuit of Life-Saving Discoveries and Cures
• Climate Science: Motivating Action to Address and Mitigate Climate Change
• Exploring the Frontiers of Quantum Mechanics: Inspiring Advancements in Quantum Computing and Quantum Technologies

🩺 Medicine Topics

• The Human Body: Unveiling the Complexities and Marvels of Human Anatomy
• Healthcare Heroes: Inspiring the Pursuit of Medical Professions and Healing
• Medical Research: Motivating Scientific Discoveries and Breakthroughs in Medicine
• Mental Health Awareness: Inspiring Compassion and Support for Mental Well-being
• Advances in Precision Medicine: Motivating Personalized Approaches to Healthcare
• Innovations in Medical Technology: Inspiring Cutting-Edge Solutions for Diagnosis and Treatment
• Global Health Equity: Motivating Efforts to Improve Access to Quality Healthcare Worldwide
• Disease Prevention: Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles and Promoting Wellness
• Exploring the Field of Medical Ethics: Motivating Ethical Decision-Making in Healthcare
• The Power of Medical Education: Inspiring the Next Generation of Compassionate and Skilled Medical Professionals

🏛 Government and Politics Topics

• Youth Empowerment in Politics: Motivating Active Participation and Civic Engagement
• Advocating for Social Justice: Inspiring Equality and Equity in Government Policies
• Environmental Policy: Motivating Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future
• Human Rights and Activism: Inspiring Change and Promoting Equality
• Political Leadership: Motivating Ethical and Effective Governance
• Electoral Engagement: Inspiring the Importance of Voting and Participating in Democratic Processes
• Public Service: Motivating a Career of Dedication and Impact in Government
• Fighting Corruption: Inspiring Transparency and Accountability in Politics
• Immigration and Refugee Policies: Motivating Compassion and Inclusive Approaches
• Diplomacy and Global Cooperation: Inspiring Peaceful Resolutions and International Collaboration

📌 Other Popular Motivational Speech Topics

• Overcoming Adversity: Rising Above Challenges and Embracing Resilience
• Finding Happiness Within: Inspiring Self-Love and Personal Fulfillment
• Pursuing Dreams: Motivating Passion and Perseverance in Achieving Goals
• Embracing Change: Motivating Growth and Transformation
• The Power of Positivity: Inspiring Optimism and a Positive Mindset
• Inspiring Others: Motivating Leadership and Influence
• Embracing Diversity: Motivating Inclusion and Celebrating Differences
• Unleashing Creativity: Inspiring Innovation and Out-of-the-Box Thinking
• Nurturing Relationships: Motivating Love, Compassion, and Connection
• Leaving a Legacy: Inspiring a Life of Purpose and Meaning

Ready to Conquer Your Fears, Shatter Limitations, and Achieve Greatness?

Buy a speech today and receive a personalized, electrifying experience that unlocks the keys to your greatness.

Why are Motivational Speeches Important for Students?

How can i choose the right motivational speech topic for students, can i use personal stories in my motivational speech, how long should an effective motivational speech be, related articles.

World leading higher education information and services Home News Blogs Courses Jobs function vqTrackId(){return'0a14b8cb-e32a-4bc4-ab7d-ff2b3cfe7090';}(function(d,e){var el=d.createElement(e);el.sa=function(an,av){this.setAttribute(an,av);return this;};el.sa('id','vq_tracking').sa('src','//t.visitorqueue.com/p/tracking.min.js?id='+vqTrackId()).sa('async',1).sa('data-id',vqTrackId());d.getElementsByTagName(e)[0].parentNode.appendChild(el);})(document,'script'); function vqTrackPc(){return 1;} (function(d,e){var el=d.createElement(e);el.sa=function(an,av){this.setAttribute(an,av);return this;};el.sa('id','vq_personalisation').sa('src','//personalisation.visitorqueue.com/p/personalisation.min.js?id='+vqTrackId()).sa('async',1).sa('data-id',vqTrackId());d.getElementsByTagName(e)[0].parentNode.appendChild(el);})(document,'script');

5 best motivational speeches for ambitious students.

| October 13, 2020 | 0 responses

Even the most ambitious and motivated students sometimes suffer from a lack of energy. When homework assignments, deadlines, and sleepless nights are piling up, it gets harder and harder to stay positive and focused on your goals.

If you feel drained and need a dose of inspiration, you are in the right place. You will find below a list of amazingly uplifting motivational speeches that will help you overcome your insecurities, boost your self-confidence, realize what you really want, and move mountains to get it. And if you need time to listen to these inspiring addresses and talks, but the workload is too heavy at the moment, remember tha t you can always turn to the professional assistance of a write my essay service experts.

1. Penn’s 2011 Commencement Address by Denzel Washington (“Fall forward”)

Many celebrities have delivered commencement addresses at the leading American universities, but Denzel Washington stands out among them all. This iconic actor and director managed to touch the hearts of the graduates with his warm humor, candor, and wisdom. Washington’s memorable address is built around one powerful message, “Never be discouraged. Never hold back. And when you fall in life, remember this: fall forward.” “Fall forward” is a potent metaphor that the actor uses to teach young people to embrace failure and learn to see it as a step on the way to success. Every young person has a gift to share with humanity and make the world a better place. Washington urges you to discover this gift, do what you feel passionate about, and not be afraid to fail. “Don’t be afraid to fail big, to dream big, but remember dreams without goals are just dreams and they ultimately fuel disappointment,” says the great actor. This address is about being disciplined, working hard, taking risks, and achieving success. So, if you are looking for an ultimate motivational speech, look no further.

2. North Central College’s 1965 Commencement Address by Edith Sampson (“Choose One of Five”)

This wonderfully inspiring but also provocative speech is not too well-known, but, believe us, it is a true hidden gem. It was given by Edith Sampson, an American lawyer, judge, and the first Black U.S. delegate to the United Nations, at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, back in 1965. While more than 50 years have passed since the day this speech was first delivered, it is still as relevant and poignant as ever. Recently it has been revived by the Almeida Theatre in their project Figures of Speech . We highly recommend Andrew Scott’s brilliant reading of Edith Sampson’s address. It is not an easy speech to listen to. In fact, it is a multiple-choice test, and who loves tests? The single question you have to answer is this: “What do you do with your education now that you have it – and now that it is beginning to become obsolete even as you sit here?” Which of the five alternatives offered by Sampson will you choose? This speech will provoke you, challenge you, maybe even upset you, but also empower you to become your best self.

3. “8 Secrets of Success” by Richard St. John

This iconic TED-talk is not only inspiring and hilarious but also practical and quite short. In only 3 minutes Richard St. John manages to share with the audience the ultimate recipe for success. To accomplish this, St. John spent ten years researching success and interviewed more than 500 amazing individuals who had achieved great heights in various spheres of human activity. Having discovered the 8 traits that these outstanding people have in common, the researcher is ready to share this knowledge with you. St. John’s quest started with a very simple question asked by a high school student. “What leads to success?” If you want to hear the answer, listen to this TED-talk , and reboot your motivation.

4. The University of Houston’s Speech by Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey, an Academy Award-winning actor, is a person from whom you would expect a spectacular address merging humor and superb acting into one dazzling performance. And he definitely does shine in his role as a motivational speaker standing on the podium in front of the excited graduates. But he also does much more. He delivers a powerful and serious speech in which he shares with all the young people 13 life lessons that have guided the actor up to this day. This address is extraordinary, honest, and raw. It is easy to sense that McConaughey earnestly believes in what he is talking about – a possibility for everyone to reach a place where “what we want is also just what we need.”

5. “Want to change the world? Start by being brave enough to care” by Cleo Wade

“Want to change the world? Start by being brave enough to care,” a mesmerizingly beautiful and moving TED-talk by Cleo Wade , possesses both qualities: it is a great treat for your eyes and ears, but also a heartfelt and honest appeal to you to become an advocate for love and acceptance in these turbulent times. In her poem, Wade is meditating on kindness, generosity, justice, and peace. She offers us reference points we can all rely on in times of uncertainty and doubt. After all, you do not have to be a politician to change the world. A poet can do it, a student can do it, any human being who cares can make this world a better place. “However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at,” said Stephen Hawking . And this is the truth that physics and lyrics share.

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Motivational Speeches for Students

An Introduction to The Modern Approach to Motivational Speech For Students

Motivational speeches for students are increasing in popularity nowadays because they are a great way to share ideas and personal experiences with other people. Students do well when speaking in front of crowds because this would help them enhance their public speaking and oratory skills. Moreover, it would also bring them recognition for their hard work and induce confidence in them. 

A Student Delivering A Motivational Speech

Students need the motivation to be successful. Motivation can come from many different sources, and teachers must be attentive to their student's needs for this motivation to grow and thrive. Students can be motivated by written motivational speeches for students , posters, lines of poetry, and motivational quotes . Motivation is the fuel needed to get and stay engaged in the classroom. 

How Can You Motivate Students?

A carefully designed speech can be effective in motivating students to get good grades in their exams and as such, it can inspire them to dedicate themselves to achieving their best academic results. Motivational speeches can also help students to boost their interests in a variety of subjects as well as activities while building their confidence at the same time. Motivating students can help them to be creative while developing a true sense of competitiveness at the same time.

Topics for Motivational Speech for Students can be like:

1) What are your ultimate goals in life?  

2) What makes you happy and not so happy with your life right now?

3) What is one of the most significant moments in your life and how has it impacted who you are today?

4) Tell us a moment when you made a positive impact on someone else's life.

5) What is the best decision you have made in the past year and why?

6)  How important is Time Management in your life?

Why do We Need Motivation?

After seeing some of the topics for motivational speech for students you'd now learn what is motivation. So, what is motivation? Why do you need it? If a single person or animal can be motivated, why not you? 

In today’s life, different sorts of pressures are always present in every individual’s life. Whether we admit it or not, there is always something that has us feeling down, and this can get in the way of achieving our goals or even our normal day-to-day life. 

Motivation can change your outlook on things and push you towards achieving your goals by giving you that little extra boost that certain charisma needs to get things done. You can get motivation from some amazing written motivational speeches for students . Motivational speeches for students are appropriate for anyone in any field from artists to entrepreneurs who want their work to gain recognition and success.

Topics for Motivational Speeches that Can Be Delivered to Students

1) Role of discipline

2) What is the purpose of education?

3) Importance of life skills

4) Opportunities in academia

5) Importance of communication skills

6) Life stories of great personalities

7) Climate change 

8) Global Opportunities 

9) Computer revolution

10) Technology 

11) Recent discoveries in science and technology

12) Value of research work

13) Role of technology

The Speech of Martin Luther King Jr.

The famous speech of Martin Luther King Jr. for equality was given in the context of American life in the early 1960s. Although some of the contexts may not be applicable today, it is an iconic piece of rhetoric and still has many applications to modern life.  You can get this in the form of motivational speeches for students PDF.

Martin Luther King Jr. Delivering His Famous Speech

Why do you think motivational speeches for students are important? Because motivation is different for everyone; some people need external motivation and others rely on their internal drive. But one thing remains true: every human being needs the inspiration to do anything at all. 

Students need motivation through speeches to encourage them to study and achieve success in their careers. One form of speech is delivered by a coach, who just may be the most influential person they meet while pursuing their goals. Motivational speech for students can motivate students to be hardworking and pursue their goals with passion. The key to success in life has always been figuring out ways to motivate others, whether it's finding an excuse or giving someone the push they need.

FAQs on Motivational Speeches for Students

1. What should the speaker do to make sure his/her speech is understood by all students present?

Many times motivational speeches require the speaker to make sure that his or her speech is understood by the audience. They can do this by using gestures, speaking loud and clear, and using short sentences. The speaker should use words that students will understand. To make a speech easy and understandable for students, one can explain how the topic applies to the lives of children, and speak about how it can be used to avoid a bad situation.

2. What types of subjects work for motivating students?

Motivational speech topics for students that work include topics that challenge students to think creatively and proactively about the subject, and topics that are relevant to their lives. Like financial independence, and climate change. Apart from choosing the right topics to speak on, the timing of the speech also holds a certain value since a shorter speech may be appropriate for smaller groups with less active minds while larger groups will need a longer time to get their thoughts on paper.

3. How does motivation affect a student's performance?

Motivation is recognized as one of the most important factors determining performance in studies for teenage students. It is the reason that causes a person to persist in their goal. Motivation affects a student's performance because if they are motivated, they will want to do better and be more engaged in the subject material. When one doesn't have this motivation, they might struggle more with school work that is hard or unpleasant and might affect their grades.

Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Personality Psychology — Motivation

Essays on Motivation

🌟 the importance of writing a motivation essay 📝.

Motivation is like that extra sprinkle of magic dust that gives us the boost we need to achieve our goals and dreams ✨✨. It's the driving force behind our actions and the fuel that keeps us going when things get tough. Writing an essay about motivation allows us to delve deeper into this fascinating topic and explore its various aspects. So, why not grab your pen (or keyboard) and let's dive into the world of motivation! 💪📚

🔍 Choosing the Perfect Motivation Essay Topic 🤔

When it comes to choosing a topic for your motivation essay, there are a few things to consider. First, think about what aspect of motivation you find most intriguing. Is it personal motivation, motivation in the workplace, or maybe the psychology behind motivation? Once you have a general idea, narrow it down further to a specific angle that interests you the most.

💡 Motivation Argumentative Essay 💪📝

An argumentative essay on motivation requires you to take a stance and provide evidence to support your viewpoint. Here are ten exciting topics to get those creative juices flowing:

• The role of intrinsic motivation in academic success
• The impact of extrinsic rewards on employee motivation
• Does social media affect motivation levels in teenagers?
• The connection between motivation and self-esteem
• How does motivation differ between genders?
• The influence of music on motivation levels
• Does money truly motivate people in the workplace?
• The effects of positive reinforcement on motivation
• The link between motivation and mental health
• How does goal-setting impact motivation?

🌪️ Motivation Cause and Effect Essay 📝

In a cause and effect essay, you explore the reasons behind certain motivations and their outcomes. Here are ten thought-provoking topics to consider:

• The causes and effects of procrastination on motivation
• How does a lack of motivation impact academic performance?
• The relationship between motivation and success in sports
• The effects of parental motivation on children's achievements
• How does motivation affect mental well-being?
• The causes and effects of burnout on motivation levels
• The impact of motivation on work-life balance
• How does motivation affect creativity and innovation?
• The causes and effects of peer pressure on motivation
• The relationship between motivation and goal attainment

💬 Motivation Opinion Essay 💭📝

In an opinion essay, you express your personal thoughts and beliefs about motivation. Here are ten intriguing topics to spark your imagination:

• Is self-motivation more effective than external motivation?
• Are rewards a necessary form of motivation?
• Should schools focus more on intrinsic motivation?
• The role of motivation in achieving work-life balance
• Is motivation a learned behavior or innate?
• The impact of motivation on personal growth and development
• Does motivation play a significant role in overcoming obstacles?
• Is fear an effective motivator?
• The role of motivation in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Can motivation be sustained in the long term?

📚 Motivation Informative Essay 🧠📝

An informative essay on motivation aims to educate and provide valuable insights. Here are ten fascinating topics to explore:

• The psychology behind motivation and its theories
• How to stay motivated in challenging times
• The impact of motivation on personal and professional success
• Motivation techniques for achieving fitness goals
• The role of motivation in leadership and management
• Motivation in the context of mental health and well-being
• The history of motivation research and key figures
• Motivation strategies for students and educators
• Motivation and its connection to creativity and innovation
• Motivation in different cultural and societal contexts

📜 Thesis Statement Examples 📜

Here are a few thesis statement examples to inspire your motivation essay:

• 1. "Motivation, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, plays a pivotal role in driving individuals towards achieving their goals and aspirations."
• 2. "This essay explores the multifaceted nature of motivation, examining its psychological underpinnings, societal influences, and practical applications."
• 3. "In a world filled with challenges and opportunities, understanding the mechanisms of motivation empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and reach new heights of success."

📝 Introduction Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some introduction paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

• 1. "Motivation is the driving force behind human actions, the invisible hand that propels us toward our goals. It is the spark that ignites the fire of determination within us, pushing us to overcome obstacles and realize our dreams."
• 2. "In a world where challenges often outnumber opportunities, motivation serves as the compass guiding us through life's intricate maze. It is the unwavering belief in our abilities and the fuel that keeps our ambitions burning bright."
• 3. "Picture a world without motivation—a world where dreams remain unfulfilled, talents remain hidden, and aspirations remain dormant. Fortunately, we do not live in such a world, and this essay delves into the profound impact of motivation on human lives."

🔚 Conclusion Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some conclusion paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

• 1. "As we conclude this journey through the realm of motivation, let us remember that it is the driving force behind our accomplishments, the cornerstone of our achievements. With unwavering motivation, we can surmount any obstacle and turn our aspirations into reality."
• 2. "In the grand tapestry of human existence, motivation weaves the threads of determination, perseverance, and success. This essay's culmination serves as a testament to the enduring power of motivation and its ability to shape our destinies."
• 3. "As we bid farewell to this exploration of motivation, let us carry forward the knowledge that motivation is not just a concept but a potent force that propels us toward greatness. With motivation as our guide, we can continue to chase our dreams and conquer new horizons."

The Puzzle of Motivation Analysis

Team captain speech, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Brutus Character Analysis

Finding of what motivates you: nick vujicic, motivation letter (bachelor of business administration), the main types of motivation, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Motivation and Its Various Types

Pushing beyond limits: finding motivation to succeed, my motivation to study medical/health administration, life as a student-athlete, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

Learning Styles and Motivation Reflection 

My motivation to undergo a masters program in business, entrepreneurship, and technology, my letter of motivation: electrical and electronics engineering, assessment of my motivation and values, overview of the motivational theories for business, autonomy, mastery, and purpose: motivation, applying work motivation theories to business situations, drive-reduction theory and motivation, the impact of motivation and affect on judgement, my motivation to study biomedical engineering in the netherlands, research of the theories of motivation: expectancy theory and the equity theory, understanding of my personal motivation, the motivation letter for you, herzberg two-factor theory of motivation, motivation in different aspects of our lives, the importance of motivation in human resource management, my motivation to get a bachelor degree in nursing, my potential and motivation to excel in the field of medicine, my motivational letter: mechanical engineering, motivation letter for computer science scholarship.

Motivation is what explains why people or animals initiate, continue or terminate a certain behavior at a particular time. Motivational states are commonly understood as forces acting within the agent that create a disposition to engage in goal-directed behavior.

There are four main tyoes of motivation: Intrinsic, extrinsic, unconscious, and conscious.

Theories articulating the content of motivation: Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Herzberg's two-factor theory, Alderfer's ERG theory, Self-Determination Theory, Drive theory.

Relevant topics

• Growth Mindset
• Procrastination

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Motivational Speech for Students: 5 Powerful Motivational Speeches Every Student Needs to Hear Today

Last Updated: May 2024

This blog has shared motivational blogs for students and now we share the value of a motivational speech for students.

Motivation is essential for students to excel in their academic and personal life.

A motivational speech for students can ignite their passion and drive to achieve their goals.

It encourages them to push their limits and overcome challenges. By listening to a powerful motivational speech, students can gain a new perspective and a renewed sense of determination.

So, if you want to boost their drive and achieve success, choose a motivational speech for students today!

Who is this post for?

This post is for teachers who want to find a motivational speech for students.

By reading this post, you find short motivational speeches for students on YouTube that are four minutes or shorter. You also discover the importance of using motivational speeches with students. Finally, you’ll get tips for delivering a short motivational speech to students.

Although this post is geared for college professors looking for a short motivational speech for students, these speeches are inspirational for anyone looking for the path to success.

You will even see a quote from a motivational speech for students in Grade 3, so let’s get started.

Motivational Speech for Students: Igniting the Fire Within

Motivation is the driving force behind every successful student. It is what fuels their ambition, helps them overcome obstacles, and ultimately, propels them towards their goals. However, it’s not always easy to find motivation, especially when faced with challenges and setbacks.

As a result, delivering a motivational speech for students can be incredibly impactful, reminding them of their potential and igniting the fire within.

According to Shapiro Negotiations  founder,  “ A strong and inspiring motivational speech can be the spark that ignites a student’s passion and drive to succeed .”

In this post, we’ll explore some tips on how to deliver a powerful motivational speech for students that will leave a lasting impact. We’ll cover the importance of setting goals, the power of positive thinking, and the value of perseverance. So, let’s dive in!

The Importance of Setting Goals

The first step towards achieving success is setting clear, achievable goals. Goals give students something to work towards, providing direction and purpose. A motivational speech for students should encourage them to set goals that align with their interests and passions, challenging them to reach new heights.

When setting goals, it’s essential to make them specific, measurable, and time-bound. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get better grades,” a student should set a goal of “I want to achieve a B+ in math by the end of the semester.” This goal is specific, measurable, and has a deadline, making it easier for the student to track their progress and stay motivated.

Moreover, it’s crucial to remind students that setting goals is not a one-time task. As they achieve their goals, they should set new ones, continuously pushing themselves to improve. The key is to always have something to work towards, keeping the motivation alive and the fire burning.

The Power of Positive Thinking

The power of positive thinking cannot be overstated. It’s a mindset that can transform the way students approach challenges and setbacks, helping them stay motivated and focused. A motivational speech for students should emphasize the importance of a positive attitude, encouraging them to believe in themselves and their abilities.

When faced with a difficult task, students should approach it with the belief that they can overcome it. A positive attitude can help them see the situation as a challenge to be conquered, rather than an obstacle to be avoided. This shift in mindset can make all the difference, empowering students to take on challenges and push through difficulties.

In addition to a positive attitude, students should also practice gratitude . Focusing on the good things in their lives can help them stay motivated and optimistic, even in challenging times. A motivational speech for students should encourage them to find something to be grateful for every day, no matter how small. This practice can help shift their focus from what they don’t have to what they do have, fostering a sense of contentment and happiness.

The Value of Perseverance

Finally, a motivational speech for students should stress the value of perseverance. Success is not achieved overnight; it takes time, effort, and persistence. Students should be reminded that setbacks and failures are a natural part of the journey, and they should not be discouraged by them.

Instead, they should use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Every failure can provide valuable lessons that can help them improve and achieve their goals in the future. A motivational speech for students should encourage them to keep going, even when the going gets tough.

It’s also essential to remind students that they are not alone. They have a support system of teachers, family, and friends who want to see them succeed. If they ever feel overwhelmed or discouraged, they should reach out for help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength and a willingness to learn.

Motivational Speech for Students: Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs only discusses three events in his life that contributed to his success. As you can see, short motivational speeches for students can be as inspirational as longer motivational speeches.

You can find many examples of motivational speeches for students on YouTube. Use YouTube’s filter to find a short motivational speech for students. YouTube’s filter allows you to find a motivational speech for students four minutes or shorter.

In this example of a motivational speech for students, Apple founder Steve Jobs addresses students at Stanford in his Commencement Speech. In the speech, he shares three factors that drove his success.

Other familiar faces that shared inspiration in a motivational speech for students include

• Taylor Swift (2022)
• Denzel Washington (2017)
• Michelle Obama (2011)
• Carol Burnett (1985)

I was in the audience in 1985 when I heard Carol Burnett’s motivational speech for students. Her speech was so inspiring, I remember her advice all these years later.

Speech on Motivation for Students

UPDATE: DECEMBER 2023

No article about a motivational speech for students would be complete without a video showing a speech on motivation for students.

Motivational Speech in English for Success in Life

How to Craft a Motivational Speech for Success in Life

The power of motivation.

In the pursuit of success in life, motivation serves as a driving force, propelling individuals beyond obstacles and toward their goals. Crafting a motivational speech in English can inspire and empower individuals to embrace challenges, persevere through adversity, and strive for greatness.

Embracing Challenges

• Address the inevitability of challenges in life.
• Highlight the importance of adopting a positive mindset when facing obstacles.
• Encourage resilience and determination in the face of setbacks.

Setting Goals and Vision

• Stress the significance of setting clear, achievable goals.
• Inspire individuals to visualize their desired outcomes and aspirations.
• Emphasize the role of determination and focus in realizing one’s dreams.

Cultivating Resilience

• Discuss the importance of resilience in overcoming failures and setbacks.
• Encourage individuals to learn from failures and use them as stepping stones toward success.
• Highlight the resilience of notable figures who have faced adversity on their path to greatness.

Perseverance and Grit

• Advocate for perseverance and grit as essential qualities for success.
• Share anecdotes and examples of individuals who have demonstrated unwavering determination in pursuit of their dreams.
• Encourage the audience to cultivate perseverance and never give up on their aspirations.

In crafting a motivational speech for success in life, remember to infuse it with authenticity, passion, and sincerity. Let your words resonate with the audience, igniting the flames of inspiration and empowerment within them.

Best Motivational Speech for Students and Success in Life

So, you’re looking for the best motivational speech to fuel your journey as a student and set the stage for lifelong success? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s a dose of inspiration tailored just for you:

• Embrace Challenges: Life is like a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs. Instead of shying away from challenges, embrace them head-on. Every obstacle you overcome is a stepping stone toward your goals.
• Set Clear Goals: Success doesn’t happen overnight. Define your goals clearly and break them down into manageable tasks. Each small achievement will propel you closer to your dreams.
• Stay Persistent: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your success story. Stay persistent in your efforts, even when the going gets tough. Remember, every setback is just a setup for a comeback.
• Learn from Failures: Failure is not the end; it’s a lesson in disguise. Use failures as opportunities to learn, grow, and come back stronger than ever before.
• Surround Yourself with Positivity: Your environment plays a significant role in shaping your mindset. Surround yourself with positive influences, supportive friends, and mentors who believe in your potential.
• Take Action: Dreaming is essential, but action is crucial. Take proactive steps every day toward your goals. Even the smallest actions can lead to significant outcomes over time.
• Believe in Yourself: Self-belief is the fuel that drives success. Trust in your abilities, stay focused on your vision, and never underestimate the power of perseverance.
• Celebrate Progress: Don’t forget to celebrate your victories along the way, no matter how small. Acknowledging your progress will keep you motivated and eager to achieve even more.
• Stay Inspired: Seek inspiration from successful individuals who have walked a similar path. Their stories of triumph over adversity can serve as beacons of hope during challenging times.

Remember, success is not a destination; it’s a journey. Keep striving, stay resilient, and never lose sight of your dreams. You have the power to create the future you desire. Now, go out there and conquer the world!

Short Motivational Speech for Students Sample

Here is a sample of a short motivational speech for students:

A Pep Talk Just for You

Hey there, fellow learner! Need a little boost to kickstart your motivation? Well, you’re in luck because I’ve got just the thing for you. Picture this: you’re sitting at your desk, staring at a mountain of assignments, feeling like you’re about to drown in a sea of stress. Sound familiar? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. But guess what? You’ve got this! Yes, YOU!

Listen up, because I’m about to drop some wisdom that’ll light a fire under you faster than you can say “caffeine boost.” You see, life’s like a rollercoaster – it’s got its ups and downs, twists and turns. But here’s the thing: those moments when you feel like you’re plummeting down? They’re just setting you up for the exhilarating highs that lie ahead.

Think about it: every challenge you face, every obstacle you overcome – they’re all shaping you into the resilient, unstoppable force that you were meant to be. So, instead of fearing failure, embrace it. Let it fuel your drive to push harder, reach higher, and dream bigger than ever before.

And hey, when you hit those inevitable roadblocks (because let’s face it, they’re bound to happen), remember this: it’s not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up. So dust yourself off, stand tall, and tackle those challenges head-on. Because the world’s full of possibilities just waiting for someone like you to seize them.

So, my fellow student, here’s my challenge to you: dare to dream, dare to fail, and most importantly, dare to succeed. Because the only limits that exist are the ones you place on yourself. Now go out there and show the world what you’re made of. You’ve got this!

Motivational Speech for Students: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most motivational speech of all time.

I have always been a fan of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. His speech is so motivational it is taught in the schools.

What is the best motivational speech for students?

The best motivational speech for students includes the importance of goal setting, positive thinking, the value of perseverance.

Conclusion: Motivational Speech for Students

In closing, I am a teacher. I have taught all grades from six to eleven. Do I use a motivational speech for students in my classes? Of course!

In conclusion, motivational speeches for students can have a profound impact on their personal growth and academic success. Through the power of words, motivational speakers can inspire and encourage students to believe in themselves, set goals, and work towards achieving them.

Such speeches can provide students with the necessary motivation and confidence to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. With the right dose of motivation and inspiration, students can unlock their full potential and become the best versions of themselves.

One important note:

However, it is important to note that motivational speeches alone may not be sufficient to bring about lasting change in students’ lives. It is equally important for students to take action and apply the principles and advice shared in the speeches to their own lives. This requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone. Ultimately, the true value of motivational speeches lies not in the words themselves, but in the actions and results that they inspire.

In short, motivational speeches for students can be a valuable tool in the pursuit of personal and academic growth. They can provide a much-needed boost of inspiration and motivation, and help students overcome the challenges they may face. However, it is up to the students themselves to take the words to heart and turn them into action. With the right mindset, attitude, and determination, students can use motivational speeches as a springboard towards a brighter future .

Readers, please share so teacher discover this guide and realize that motivational speech for students can be a powerful tool, igniting the fire within and reminding students of their potential.

I look forward to your views in the comments section. Can you recommend an additional short motivational speech for students? Which inspirational speech for students did you like the best?

PL-300 Exam Dumps

This post was made possible by the support of our readers.

Janice Wald is the founder of MostlyBlogging.com and co-founder of the Mostly Blogging Academy. She is an ebook author, blogger, blogging coach, blogging judge, freelance writer, and speaker. She won the Best Internet Marketer Award and the Best Blogger Award at the 2021 Infinity Blog Awards. Wald was also nominated as 2019 Best Internet Marketer by the Infinity Blog Awards and in 2017 as the Most Informative Blogger by the London Bloggers Bash. She’s been featured on Small Business Trends, the Huffington Post, and Lifehack.

Share this:

Related Posts

Would you like to share your thoughts cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

How to Write a Motivational Speech for Students

You are tasked by a headmaster or a professor to do the daunting task during every school ceremony: giving out a speech, particularly, a motivational speech . If you’re an expert in giving out speeches, you probably don’t need this advice, but if you’re not used to it, you need all the help you can get. There are lots of preparations to do. You think what will be the theme of your speech and you need to practice in delivering it out loud. Don’t fret, because here are the things that will help you in your speech.

• Examples of Writing an Appreciation Speech
• Student Council Speech Examples

Keep in mind that speeches are tricky to do in a school setting. If you are the unfortunate one who will give boring speeches, nobody would listen to you (except for the people sitting in the front row who are courteous enough to actually try to listen to you speak). Your speech may last a lifetime if it is delivered in a monotonous voice. The following tips are the ones you should learn if you’re giving a talk, and politely share them with up and coming speakers if it is your turn to be sitting in the audience. You may also see speech examples in pdf

Valedictorian Speech Example

Size: 91 KB

Motivational Speech Topics Example

1. Have a Point in Your Speech

When giving a speech, always think what will be the point of your speech. What message do you want to convey to the students that they should remember? What is the main lesson can you give to them to be always motivated in their studies? You’re there giving a speech in the first place and don’t waste everyone’s time by just warbling mumbo-jumbos that leave your audiences asking “What is he even talking about?” Respect your audiences by making sure your message is clear and everyone will get what you are talking about. If your speech is about “not giving up even when failures seem to hinder you from your goal”, then focus your speech on that theme. You may also like presentation speech examples & samples

 2. Put Structure in Your Speech

A basic but often forgotten rule; A good speech needs a beginning, a middle, and an end. You’ll find that your students react best if you tell them early on in your speech what you plan to tell them and give them mileposts along the way.

It is also time to start writing your speech . Nothing is more effective when you already have an idea of what will be your speech all about than writing it right away. The best way to organize a speech is to first make a speech outline . After that label the key points in your speech and make sure you stay on your topic.

Remember, not to dive right away into your remarks. You can tell the audience up front how you want to arrange your talk, and even perhaps what your main points are.

3. Connect with Your Audience

Of course, you know that the students are your audience. This is easy on your part since you already know their gender, age, location and common interests. Once you’ve figured that out, you can aim your efforts to where the audience feels as if your speech talks to them one by one. Motivation comes from believing to be able to pursue their dreams and goals, and believing comes from the heart. Make sure you touch their heart. You may also check out speech examples for students

Think of your speech as a two-way communication even though you’re doing the talking. The communication process will not depend completely on you. Audiences may react to your words, whether they nod or shake their heads, laugh, cry, or get shocked; you should be getting a response from them. Imagine that your relationship with the audience began when you arrived at the venue and will continue after you leave. You may also see thank-you speech examples & samples

You also need two things in your speech: confidence in your message and a respectful understanding of your audience. Recognize that while you’ve spent hours into making your message, the students in their seats only get a relatively short time to hear it. Don’t talk down to them, but translate your words into language they’re comfortable with. You may also like speech templates and examples

4. Don’t Make Your Speech into a Narrative Essay

It’s not a rare occurrence that some things that look humorous on the page work well when delivered orally, while other things that seem smart on paper fall flat and uninspired when spoken aloud.

The best way to make your written speech work well both in written and oral forms; model your text after poetry, lyrics, and other great speeches. Another tip is when you prepare your final draft, write it in a way so that each new thought begins on a new line. The final draft should look more like a poem than a written novel. You may also check out introduction speech examples & samples

5. Tell a Story or Better Yet; Tell Your Own Story

If you want to become a motivational speaker, the best topic to refer to for motivational speeches is to start looking for it in your own life. Make a list of goals you have met and achievements you have earned, specifically related to your co-curricular activities. For example, graduating from college, being the top of your class, overcoming failures in a particularly hard subject, etc. You may also see informative speech examples & samples

You need to figure out your specialty, whether it is leadership or dedication etc because people tend to be more willing to listen if you’re an expert in a certain field. In other words, if you know what you are talking about and you show your intelligence in this topic, people are more willing to listen to what you say since they believe you know what you’re talking about. You may also like special occasion speech examples & samples

Second, you must identify what you have to offer. Lucky enough, everyday goals can be used in providing material; in the student’s case, how to get an A+ in all your subjects, how to survive a hard subject, how to balance co-curricular and extracurricular activities, etc. Talk about how that changed your life and the struggles you had to endure. Talk about how you overcame these hindrances and adversity and how you pushed hard to get through it. Pour your heart out on the table to the audience; they love to connect to the emotion that you offer and hopefully, it will help inspire them. You may also check out speech examples in doc

6. Practice Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, familiarize it. Don’t just merely memorize your speech. You need to know your speech not just by mind but by heart. Once you have it familiarized and memorized, there is no need for you look at your note cards or the screen (if applicable), which gives you the freedom to have eye contact with your audience. This is a good tactic as this does not only make the audience feel like you are talking to them one-on-one but at the same time gives you the boost you need to be exciting on stage. Since this is a motivational speech, you need to connect with your audience to show that you are talking to them. You may also see appreciation speech examples & samples

7. Join a Local Toastmasters Club

If you need to improve the way you speak in front of crowds, you can seek help by finding your local Toastmasters club in your area. Toastmasters is an international non-profit organization that helps people practice speaking skills at weekly meetings. This will help hone your skills in making and delivering speeches and this will help you feel more confident about giving out speeches in front of people. What is great about joining a speech club is you will have the opportunity to test your skills in front of an audience and not just by practicing alone. You may also see award speech examples

8. Own the Stage

Remember, you are not just a random person talking in front of people. You are a performer, there to inspire and motivate students to keep on studying hard and focus on school. Put on a great show. Give a reason why students should follow your example and suggestions. If you won’t be able to deliver this, then you are wasting everyone’s time. This is literally your time to shine and prove your skills in delivering speeches, so give your 101%. It’s much better to be over-prepared than to find out that you can’t utter a word on stage because of your crippling anxiety. You may also like youth speech examples

9. Keep it Simple 

Remember, this is a speech in a school ceremony. Putting on a show with props and costumes are not necessary.   When you speak to the audience, keep your message simple and strong. Sometimes, less is more. Make your message memorable by delivering messages that students can bring with them and apply it to their academic life. You may also check out leadership speech examples & samples

Because I Could Not Read: Motivational Speech Example

Size: 326 KB

Motivational Speech Example

Size: 362 KB

Once you’ve mastered these tips, you are now on your way to become a bonafide motivational speaker. You may be so good at it, you can do this for a living. Good luck on your speech and remember, to keep it genuine. You may also see acceptance speech examples

Motivational Speech Generator for Students

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a Motivational Speech for Students on overcoming failure.

Write a Motivational Speech for Students encouraging hard work.

• Essay On Motivation

Motivation Essay

500+ words essay on motivation.

Motivation, the word itself, means positive vibes which push an individual to go through tough times. We all are unaware of what drives one to stay motivated. We have different sources, such as our role models, parents, teachers, etc. Everyone should have some infrequent motivation intervals to move forward in their life.

Meaning of Motivation

Motivation provides us with positive energy to achieve our goals and makes us feel optimistic and enthusiastic. It pushes us to perform our work specifically to get results. In our life, it gives us the energy to stay focused on our work. Every individual needs the motivation to achieve their dreams and aspirations. Human beings have numerous things to motivate themselves, such as encouragement from loved ones, friends, etc. Motivation from our parents makes us feel more confident about the path we pursue. It encourages us to believe in ourselves and make us stronger. Sometimes, we fail to achieve success, and at that phase, we require motivation. Once we get motivated, we start fresh with energy and hope.

Motivation comes with constant practice, meaning getting moved or inspired by someone that will help you achieve your goals. Everyone needs motivation, whether in a workplace, school, institution, etc.

Role of Motivation

Motivation comes with the right mindset irrespective of your goal, too big or long term. It helps us to move ahead mentally and physically. To keep ourselves motivated, we require a driving factor or tool and to become successful; we need to push our boundaries. Also, you need to come out of your comfort zone to reveal your true potential.

Types of Motivation

An individual might have various types of motivation, but in my opinion, motivation can be self-motivation and motivation by others.

Self-motivation: Self-motivation means keeping ourselves motivated without the influence of other people and situations. If you are self-motivated, you can complete the given task without guidance and encouragement.

Motivation by Others: People who lack self-motivation need help from others to keep themselves motivated. They need encouragement from others to maintain their state of motivation. These people also need to listen to motivational speeches for inspiration.

Sources of Motivation

The source of motivation can be anyone, either your school teachers or your parents, depending upon the situation.

From People: When it comes to our motivation, our mothers play an imperative role. Mothers selflessly motivate their children in every stage of life. According to research, it is found that when we communicate with our mothers, our brain releases oxytocin in a reasonable amount. It makes us feel good and motivated. Also, some people are well-known about our goal clearly, so they encourage us.

Famous Personalities: We also get inspiration from our favourite personalities like social workers, writers, political leaders, film stars, presidents, cricketers, etc. We want to become like the person we follow, which indirectly becomes our motivation.

Animals: Animals also motivate us, like dogs, which always make us happy. We can also take the example of an ant who keeps on falling but never gives up, so it teaches us that we should not feel unmotivated by our failure. Similarly, if we look at our surroundings, many animals motivate us.

Nature: The season is the best example when we talk about nature. The season keeps on changing, but we might not like every season, but still, we survive and understand its significance. Rivers also inspires and teaches us to face every problem of our life.

Books: They are one of the best sources of motivation. Many books have beautiful experiences shared with some captivating stories. Books are our best friends and the best motivators.

Conclusion of Motivation Essay

It is not only you who may feel low or sad. People meet different people and get motivated, like an energy drink. Always have your inspiration with you because it will help you achieve your goals. It is good to be optimistic because it helps us achieve our goals and adds peace to our lives.

From our BYJU’S website, students can learn CBSE Essays related to different topics. It will help students to get good marks in their upcoming exams.

Frequently Asked Questions on Motivation Essay

How important is self-motivation.

In today’s competitive world, motivating oneself constantly is necessary to move forward in life and career.

Do teachers play an important role in the ‘motivation factor’ of students?

Students spend maximum time in school, and thus, teachers are solely responsible (after parents) in motivating children towards the right goal.

How do students develop motivation?

Students can keep themselves motivated by setting realistic goals, making note of their progress, following timelines and rewarding themselves for their achievements.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request OTP on Voice Call

Post My Comment

• Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

Counselling

The Most Inspiring Speeches That Motivate Students

We thrive on motivation and inspiration as people. As students, we need as much inspiration as we can to get through some of the toughest years of our lives. Succeeding in life is a goal for many and success means different things for us all. The road to success comes with a lot of ups and downs and it is in the moments when things do not go so well, that we look for inspiration. Perhaps you cannot quite figure out your reflective essay format and spend hours researching how to write a reflective essay. You might be in finals week with a load of studying to do and feel like you are going to fail before you even started. There are many reasons we look for inspiration. If you need a little inspiration right now, here are some of the most inspiring speeches you have to listen to.

2005 Stanford Commencement Speech – Steve Jobs

This is probably the speech of all speeches for students looking for inspiration. Steve Jobs was one of the most successful people in the world and to have this speech available to us is a great gift he left behind for generations of students. Steve Jobs encouraged students to go for their dreams and to see opportunities in setbacks. We are afraid to follow our dreams these days because we always are told to rather choose a career that is stable and secure. Perhaps we should take some advice from this speech and just go for what we want.

2008 Harvard Commencement Speech – J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling has succeeded in the face of adversity. As a single mother living on welfare, she managed to become one of the best authors of all time. The success she has managed to achieve makes us not only admire her, but also pay close attention to what she has to say or teach. If she could do what she did, you can find those reflective essay tips that you’ve been searching for. She said that we need to both embrace and learn from our failures. By doing that we will truly get to know who we are and also what we want in life. That is the perfect speech to inspire students because we are still trying to figure out who we are and sometimes our failures can make us feel like we are not good enough. She embraced her own failures and never gave up. That is just as important to remember.

2008 Stanford Commencement Speech – Oprah Winfrey

This lady is one of the most powerful women in the world and she has become that by working hard and not giving up when everything seemed to be going against her. We admire her courage and her respect for all individuals, no matter what the situation may be. She spoke about the chance she took by leaving school to become a news anchor. The chance she took paid off well, I’d say. Oprah also mentioned that she finally completed her degree and how important education is. She opened a school in South-Africa, which shows how much she truly values education. The lessons we can learn from her life is immense and inspires students to this day.

2012 Strayer University – Martin Luther King III

The son of Martin Luther King Jr made an ever important speech to the class of 2012 at Strayer University. It was both inspiring and motivating. As a civil rights activist, he knows exactly what hard work is and what it means to stand for what you believe. He mentioned how important education is and how the students of this University is making his father’s dream of higher education for all, come true. He also said that the future belongs to the educated individuals and to those who are ready to meet both the opportunities and the challenges of tomorrow. That is some powerful stuff if you really think about it. We need to know that what we are doing is not in vain and that it sets us up for a better future. This speech gives you the will to continue and the inspiration to never quit.

Look within yourself and take from these speeches what works for you in this moment and going forward. How can the lessons they teach inspire you to do better and become more successful. Standing at this point in your life, you need to want to succeed in order to find inspiration. It may seem like the journey is taking forever, but anything that is great takes time to create. This is your story and you are in charge of how the story ends. What do you want to achieve? Is anything holding you back? Answer those questions, listen to these speeches and soon, you’ll be moving forward.

Comments (4)

• Pingback: Inspirational Speeches for College Students: Unlocking the Power of Motivation – Msn2U.com
• Pingback: One Pitch Changes Everything - Life Lessons - My Four and More

Fantastic examples and speeches of some of the greats. Everyone should look at these videos and find inspiration and ecnouragement. But, Oprah, wow! Also, there are useful things that can motivate you and show you how to get into an Ivy League School https://www.crimsoneducation.org/admission-support/ivy-league . Sometimes people need just a little bit of support.

I wish any of these people had spoken at my graduation. We had a guy who had worked for NASA & I thought, ‘Oh, he might be really interesting.’ Nope. He spoke in a monotone, had nothing to say about NASA or space or the future, & put everyone to sleep, lol.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You cannot copy content of this page. I own all rights to this content and it may not be copywriten.

• Social Justice
• Environment
• Health & Happiness
• Get YES! Emails
• Teacher Resources

• Give A Gift Subscription
• Teaching Sustainability
• Teaching Social Justice
• Teaching Respect & Empathy
• Student Writing Lessons
• Visual Learning Lessons
• Tough Topics Discussion Guides
• About the YES! for Teachers Program
• Student Writing Contest

Follow YES! For Teachers

Eight brilliant student essays on what matters most in life.

Read winning essays from our spring 2019 student writing contest.

For the spring 2019 student writing contest, we invited students to read the YES! article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill. Like the author, students interviewed someone significantly older than them about the three things that matter most in life. Students then wrote about what they learned, and about how their interviewees’ answers compare to their own top priorities.

The Winners

From the hundreds of essays written, these eight were chosen as winners. Be sure to read the author’s response to the essay winners and the literary gems that caught our eye. Plus, we share an essay from teacher Charles Sanderson, who also responded to the writing prompt.

Middle School Winner: Rory Leyva

High School Winner:  Praethong Klomsum

University Winner:  Emily Greenbaum

Powerful Voice Winner: Amanda Schwaben

Powerful Voice Winner: Antonia Mills

Powerful Voice Winner:  Isaac Ziemba

Powerful Voice Winner: Lily Hersch

“Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner: Jonas Buckner

From the Author: Response to Student Winners

Literary Gems

From A Teacher: Charles Sanderson

From the Author: Response to Charles Sanderson

Middle School Winner

Village Home Education Resource Center, Portland, Ore.

The Lessons Of Mortality 

“As I’ve aged, things that are more personal to me have become somewhat less important. Perhaps I’ve become less self-centered with the awareness of mortality, how short one person’s life is.” This is how my 72-year-old grandma believes her values have changed over the course of her life. Even though I am only 12 years old, I know my life won’t last forever, and someday I, too, will reflect on my past decisions. We were all born to exist and eventually die, so we have evolved to value things in the context of mortality.

One of the ways I feel most alive is when I play roller derby. I started playing for the Rose City Rollers Juniors two years ago, and this year, I made the Rosebud All-Stars travel team. Roller derby is a fast-paced, full-contact sport. The physicality and intense training make me feel in control of and present in my body.

My roller derby team is like a second family to me. Adolescence is complicated. We understand each other in ways no one else can. I love my friends more than I love almost anything else. My family would have been higher on my list a few years ago, but as I’ve aged it has been important to make my own social connections.

Music led me to roller derby.  I started out jam skating at the roller rink. Jam skating is all about feeling the music. It integrates gymnastics, breakdancing, figure skating, and modern dance with R & B and hip hop music. When I was younger, I once lay down in the DJ booth at the roller rink and was lulled to sleep by the drawl of wheels rolling in rhythm and people talking about the things they came there to escape. Sometimes, I go up on the roof of my house at night to listen to music and feel the wind rustle my hair. These unique sensations make me feel safe like nothing else ever has.

My grandma tells me, “Being close with family and friends is the most important thing because I haven’t

always had that.” When my grandma was two years old, her father died. Her mother became depressed and moved around a lot, which made it hard for my grandma to make friends. Once my grandma went to college, she made lots of friends. She met my grandfather, Joaquin Leyva when she was working as a park ranger and he was a surfer. They bought two acres of land on the edge of a redwood forest and had a son and a daughter. My grandma created a stable family that was missing throughout her early life.

My grandma is motivated to maintain good health so she can be there for her family. I can relate because I have to be fit and strong for my team. Since she lost my grandfather to cancer, she realizes how lucky she is to have a functional body and no life-threatening illnesses. My grandma tries to eat well and exercise, but she still struggles with depression. Over time, she has learned that reaching out to others is essential to her emotional wellbeing.  

Caring for the earth is also a priority for my grandma I’ve been lucky to learn from my grandma. She’s taught me how to hunt for fossils in the desert and find shells on the beach. Although my grandma grew up with no access to the wilderness, she admired the green open areas of urban cemeteries. In college, she studied geology and hiked in the High Sierras. For years, she’s been an advocate for conserving wildlife habitat and open spaces.

Our priorities may seem different, but it all comes down to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and need to be loved. Like Nancy Hill says in the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” it can be hard to decipher what is important in life. I believe that the constant search for satisfaction and meaning is the only thing everyone has in common. We all want to know what matters, and we walk around this confusing world trying to find it. The lessons I’ve learned from my grandma about forging connections, caring for my body, and getting out in the world inspire me to live my life my way before it’s gone.

Rory Leyva is a seventh-grader from Portland, Oregon. Rory skates for the Rosebuds All-Stars roller derby team. She loves listening to music and hanging out with her friends.

High School Winner

Praethong Klomsum

  Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.

Time Only Moves Forward

Sandra Hernandez gazed at the tiny house while her mother’s gentle hands caressed her shoulders. It wasn’t much, especially for a family of five. This was 1960, she was 17, and her family had just moved to Culver City.

Flash forward to 2019. Sandra sits in a rocking chair, knitting a blanket for her latest grandchild, in the same living room. Sandra remembers working hard to feed her eight children. She took many different jobs before settling behind the cash register at a Japanese restaurant called Magos. “It was a struggle, and my husband Augustine, was planning to join the military at that time, too.”

In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author Nancy Hill states that one of the most important things is “…connecting with others in general, but in particular with those who have lived long lives.” Sandra feels similarly. It’s been hard for Sandra to keep in contact with her family, which leaves her downhearted some days. “It’s important to maintain that connection you have with your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”

Despite her age, Sandra is a daring woman. Taking risks is important to her, and she’ll try anything—from skydiving to hiking. Sandra has some regrets from the past, but nowadays, she doesn’t wonder about the “would have, could have, should haves.” She just goes for it with a smile.

Sandra thought harder about her last important thing, the blue and green blanket now finished and covering

her lap. “I’ve definitely lived a longer life than most, and maybe this is just wishful thinking, but I hope I can see the day my great-grandchildren are born.” She’s laughing, but her eyes look beyond what’s in front of her. Maybe she is reminiscing about the day she held her son for the first time or thinking of her grandchildren becoming parents. I thank her for her time and she waves it off, offering me a styrofoam cup of lemonade before I head for the bus station.

The bus is sparsely filled. A voice in my head reminds me to finish my 10-page history research paper before spring break. I take a window seat and pull out my phone and earbuds. My playlist is already on shuffle, and I push away thoughts of that dreaded paper. Music has been a constant in my life—from singing my lungs out in kindergarten to Barbie’s “I Need To Know,” to jamming out to Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” in sixth grade, to BTS’s “Intro: Never Mind” comforting me when I’m at my lowest. Music is my magic shop, a place where I can trade away my fears for calm.

I’ve always been afraid of doing something wrong—not finishing my homework or getting a C when I can do better. When I was 8, I wanted to be like the big kids. As I got older, I realized that I had exchanged my childhood longing for the 48 pack of crayons for bigger problems, balancing grades, a social life, and mental stability—all at once. I’m going to get older whether I like it or not, so there’s no point forcing myself to grow up faster.  I’m learning to live in the moment.

The bus is approaching my apartment, where I know my comfy bed and a home-cooked meal from my mom are waiting. My mom is hard-working, confident, and very stubborn. I admire her strength of character. She always keeps me in line, even through my rebellious phases.

My best friend sends me a text—an update on how broken her laptop is. She is annoying. She says the stupidest things and loves to state the obvious. Despite this, she never fails to make me laugh until my cheeks feel numb. The rest of my friends are like that too—loud, talkative, and always brightening my day. Even friends I stopped talking to have a place in my heart. Recently, I’ve tried to reconnect with some of them. This interview was possible because a close friend from sixth grade offered to introduce me to Sandra, her grandmother.  

I’m decades younger than Sandra, so my view of what’s important isn’t as broad as hers, but we share similar values, with friends and family at the top. I have a feeling that when Sandra was my age, she used to love music, too. Maybe in a few decades, when I’m sitting in my rocking chair, drawing in my sketchbook, I’ll remember this article and think back fondly to the days when life was simple.

Praethong Klomsum is a tenth-grader at Santa Monica High School in Santa Monica, California.  Praethong has a strange affinity for rhyme games and is involved in her school’s dance team. She enjoys drawing and writing, hoping to impact people willing to listen to her thoughts and ideas.

University Winner

Emily Greenbaum

Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 

The Life-Long War

Every morning we open our eyes, ready for a new day. Some immediately turn to their phones and social media. Others work out or do yoga. For a certain person, a deep breath and the morning sun ground him. He hears the clink-clank of his wife cooking low sodium meat for breakfast—doctor’s orders! He sees that the other side of the bed is already made, the dogs are no longer in the room, and his clothes are set out nicely on the loveseat.

Today, though, this man wakes up to something different: faded cream walls and jello. This person, my hero, is Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James.

I pulled up my chair close to Roger’s vinyl recliner so I could hear him above the noise of the beeping dialysis machine. I noticed Roger would occasionally glance at his wife Susan with sparkly eyes when he would recall memories of the war or their grandkids. He looked at Susan like she walked on water.

Roger James served his country for thirty years. Now, he has enlisted in another type of war. He suffers from a rare blood cancer—the result of the wars he fought in. Roger has good and bad days. He says, “The good outweighs the bad, so I have to be grateful for what I have on those good days.”

When Roger retired, he never thought the effects of the war would reach him. The once shallow wrinkles upon his face become deeper, as he tells me, “It’s just cancer. Others are suffering from far worse. I know I’ll make it.”

Like Nancy Hill did in her article “Three Things that Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I asked Roger, “What are the three most important things to you?” James answered, “My wife Susan, my grandkids, and church.”

Roger and Susan served together in the Vietnam war. She was a nurse who treated his cuts and scrapes one day. I asked Roger why he chose Susan. He said, “Susan told me to look at her while she cleaned me up. ‘This may sting, but don’t be a baby.’ When I looked into her eyes, I felt like she was looking into my soul, and I didn’t want her to leave. She gave me this sense of home. Every day I wake up, she makes me feel the same way, and I fall in love with her all over again.”

Roger and Susan have two kids and four grandkids, with great-grandchildren on the way. He claims that his grandkids give him the youth that he feels slowly escaping from his body. This adoring grandfather is energized by coaching t-ball and playing evening card games with the grandkids.

The last thing on his list was church. His oldest daughter married a pastor. Together they founded a church. Roger said that the connection between his faith and family is important to him because it gave him a reason to want to live again. I learned from Roger that when you’re across the ocean, you tend to lose sight of why you are fighting. When Roger returned, he didn’t have the will to live. Most days were a struggle, adapting back into a society that lacked empathy for the injuries, pain, and psychological trauma carried by returning soldiers. Church changed that for Roger and gave him a sense of purpose.

When I began this project, my attitude was to just get the assignment done. I never thought I could view Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James as more than a role model, but he definitely changed my mind. It’s as if Roger magically lit a fire inside of me and showed me where one’s true passions should lie. I see our similarities and embrace our differences. We both value family and our own connections to home—his home being church and mine being where I can breathe the easiest.

Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me and that every once in a while, I should step back and stop to smell the roses. As we concluded the interview, amidst squeaky clogs and the stale smell of bleach and bedpans, I looked to Roger, his kind, tired eyes, and weathered skin, with a deeper sense of admiration, knowing that his values still run true, no matter what he faces.

Emily Greenbaum is a senior at Kent State University, graduating with a major in Conflict Management and minor in Geography. Emily hopes to use her major to facilitate better conversations, while she works in the Washington, D.C. area.  

Powerful Voice Winner

Amanda Schwaben

Wise Words From Winnie the Pooh

As I read through Nancy Hill’s article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I was comforted by the similar responses given by both children and older adults. The emphasis participants placed on family, social connections, and love was not only heartwarming but hopeful. While the messages in the article filled me with warmth, I felt a twinge of guilt building within me. As a twenty-one-year-old college student weeks from graduation, I honestly don’t think much about the most important things in life. But if I was asked, I would most likely say family, friendship, and love. As much as I hate to admit it, I often find myself obsessing over achieving a successful career and finding a way to “save the world.”

A few weeks ago, I was at my family home watching the new Winnie the Pooh movie Christopher Robin with my mom and younger sister. Well, I wasn’t really watching. I had my laptop in front of me, and I was aggressively typing up an assignment. Halfway through the movie, I realized I left my laptop charger in my car. I walked outside into the brisk March air. Instinctively, I looked up. The sky was perfectly clear, revealing a beautiful array of stars. When my twin sister and I were in high school, we would always take a moment to look up at the sparkling night sky before we came into the house after soccer practice.

I think that was the last time I stood in my driveway and gazed at the stars. I did not get the laptop charger from

my car; instead, I turned around and went back inside. I shut my laptop and watched the rest of the movie. My twin sister loves Winnie the Pooh. So much so that my parents got her a stuffed animal version of him for Christmas. While I thought he was adorable and a token of my childhood, I did not really understand her obsession. However, it was clear to me after watching the movie. Winnie the Pooh certainly had it figured out. He believed that the simple things in life were the most important: love, friendship, and having fun.

I thought about asking my mom right then what the three most important things were to her, but I decided not to. I just wanted to be in the moment. I didn’t want to be doing homework. It was a beautiful thing to just sit there and be present with my mom and sister.

I did ask her, though, a couple of weeks later. Her response was simple.  All she said was family, health, and happiness. When she told me this, I imagined Winnie the Pooh smiling. I think he would be proud of that answer.

I was not surprised by my mom’s reply. It suited her perfectly. I wonder if we relearn what is most important when we grow older—that the pressure to be successful subsides. Could it be that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world?

Amanda Schwaben is a graduating senior from Kent State University with a major in Applied Conflict Management. Amanda also has minors in Psychology and Interpersonal Communication. She hopes to further her education and focus on how museums not only preserve history but also promote peace.

Antonia Mills

Rachel Carson High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. 

Decoding The Butterfly

For a caterpillar to become a butterfly, it must first digest itself. The caterpillar, overwhelmed by accumulating tissue, splits its skin open to form its protective shell, the chrysalis, and later becomes the pretty butterfly we all know and love. There are approximately 20,000 species of butterflies, and just as every species is different, so is the life of every butterfly. No matter how long and hard a caterpillar has strived to become the colorful and vibrant butterfly that we marvel at on a warm spring day, it does not live a long life. A butterfly can live for a year, six months, two weeks, and even as little as twenty-four hours.

I have often wondered if butterflies live long enough to be blissful of blue skies. Do they take time to feast upon the sweet nectar they crave, midst their hustling life of pollinating pretty flowers? Do they ever take a lull in their itineraries, or are they always rushing towards completing their four-stage metamorphosis? Has anyone asked the butterfly, “Who are you?” instead of “What are you”? Or, How did you get here, on my windowsill?  How did you become ‘you’?

Humans are similar to butterflies. As a caterpillar

Suzanna Ruby/Getty Images

becomes a butterfly, a baby becomes an elder. As a butterfly soars through summer skies, an elder watches summer skies turn into cold winter nights and back toward summer skies yet again.  And as a butterfly flits slowly by the porch light, a passerby makes assumptions about the wrinkled, slow-moving elder, who is sturdier than he appears. These creatures are not seen for who they are—who they were—because people have “better things to do” or they are too busy to ask, “How are you”?

Our world can be a lonely place. Pressured by expectations, haunted by dreams, overpowered by weakness, and drowned out by lofty goals, we tend to forget ourselves—and others. Rather than hang onto the strands of our diminishing sanity, we might benefit from listening to our elders. Many elders have experienced setbacks in their young lives. Overcoming hardship and surviving to old age is wisdom that they carry.  We can learn from them—and can even make their day by taking the time to hear their stories.  

Nancy Hill, who wrote the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” was right: “We live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” I know a lot about my grandmother’s life, and it isn’t as serene as my own. My grandmother, Liza, who cooks every day, bakes bread on holidays for our neighbors, brings gifts to her doctor out of the kindness of her heart, and makes conversation with neighbors even though she is isn’t fluent in English—Russian is her first language—has struggled all her life. Her mother, Anna, a single parent, had tuberculosis, and even though she had an inviolable spirit, she was too frail to care for four children. She passed away when my grandmother was sixteen, so my grandmother and her siblings spent most of their childhood in an orphanage. My grandmother got married at nineteen to my grandfather, Pinhas. He was a man who loved her more than he loved himself and was a godsend to every person he met. Liza was—and still is—always quick to do what was best for others, even if that person treated her poorly. My grandmother has lived with physical pain all her life, yet she pushed herself to climb heights that she wasn’t ready for. Against all odds, she has lived to tell her story to people who are willing to listen. And I always am.

I asked my grandmother, “What are three things most important to you?” Her answer was one that I already expected: One, for everyone to live long healthy lives. Two, for you to graduate from college. Three, for you to always remember that I love you.

What may be basic to you means the world to my grandmother. She just wants what she never had the chance to experience: a healthy life, an education, and the chance to express love to the people she values. The three things that matter most to her may be so simple and ordinary to outsiders, but to her, it is so much more. And who could take that away?

Antonia Mills was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and attends Rachel Carson High School.  Antonia enjoys creative activities, including writing, painting, reading, and baking. She hopes to pursue culinary arts professionally in the future. One of her favorite quotes is, “When you start seeing your worth, you’ll find it harder to stay around people who don’t.” -Emily S.P.  

  Powerful Voice Winner

   Isaac Ziemba

Odyssey Multiage Program, Bainbridge Island, Wash. 

This Former State Trooper Has His Priorities Straight: Family, Climate Change, and Integrity

I have a personal connection to people who served in the military and first responders. My uncle is a first responder on the island I live on, and my dad retired from the Navy. That was what made a man named Glen Tyrell, a state trooper for 25 years, 2 months and 9 days, my first choice to interview about what three things matter in life. In the YES! Magazine article “The Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I learned that old and young people have a great deal in common. I know that’s true because Glen and I care about a lot of the same things.

For Glen, family is at the top of his list of important things. “My wife was, and is, always there for me. My daughters mean the world to me, too, but Penny is my partner,” Glen said. I can understand why Glen’s wife is so important to him. She’s family. Family will always be there for you.

Glen loves his family, and so do I with all my heart. My dad especially means the world to me. He is my top supporter and tells me that if I need help, just “say the word.” When we are fishing or crabbing, sometimes I

think, what if these times were erased from my memory? I wouldn’t be able to describe the horrible feeling that would rush through my mind, and I’m sure that Glen would feel the same about his wife.

My uncle once told me that the world is always going to change over time. It’s what the world has turned out to be that worries me. Both Glen and I are extremely concerned about climate change and the effect that rising temperatures have on animals and their habitats. We’re driving them to extinction. Some people might say, “So what? Animals don’t pay taxes or do any of the things we do.” What we are doing to them is like the Black Death times 100.

Glen is also frustrated by how much plastic we use and where it ends up. He would be shocked that an explorer recently dived to the deepest part of the Pacific Ocean—seven miles!— and discovered a plastic bag and candy wrappers. Glen told me that, unfortunately, his generation did the damage and my generation is here to fix it. We need to take better care of Earth because if we don’t, we, as a species, will have failed.

Both Glen and I care deeply for our families and the earth, but for our third important value, I chose education and Glen chose integrity. My education is super important to me because without it, I would be a blank slate. I wouldn’t know how to figure out problems. I wouldn’t be able to tell right from wrong. I wouldn’t understand the Bill of Rights. I would be stuck. Everyone should be able to go to school, no matter where they’re from or who they are.  It makes me angry and sad to think that some people, especially girls, get shot because they are trying to go to school. I understand how lucky I am.

Integrity is sacred to Glen—I could tell by the serious tone of Glen’s voice when he told me that integrity was the code he lived by as a former state trooper. He knew that he had the power to change a person’s life, and he was committed to not abusing that power.  When Glen put someone under arrest—and my uncle says the same—his judgment and integrity were paramount. “Either you’re right or you’re wrong.” You can’t judge a person by what you think, you can only judge a person from what you know.”

I learned many things about Glen and what’s important in life, but there is one thing that stands out—something Glen always does and does well. Glen helps people. He did it as a state trooper, and he does it in our school, where he works on construction projects. Glen told me that he believes that our most powerful tools are writing and listening to others. I think those tools are important, too, but I also believe there are other tools to help solve many of our problems and create a better future: to be compassionate, to create caring relationships, and to help others. Just like Glen Tyrell does each and every day.

Isaac Ziemba is in seventh grade at the Odyssey Multiage Program on a small island called Bainbridge near Seattle, Washington. Isaac’s favorite subject in school is history because he has always been interested in how the past affects the future. In his spare time, you can find Isaac hunting for crab with his Dad, looking for artifacts around his house with his metal detector, and having fun with his younger cousin, Conner.     

Lily Hersch

 The Crest Academy, Salida, Colo.

The Phone Call

Dear Grandpa,

In my short span of life—12 years so far—you’ve taught me a lot of important life lessons that I’ll always have with me. Some of the values I talk about in this writing I’ve learned from you.

Dedicated to my Gramps.

In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author and photographer Nancy Hill asked people to name the three things that mattered most to them. After reading the essay prompt for the article, I immediately knew who I wanted to interview: my grandpa Gil.      

My grandpa was born on January 25, 1942. He lived in a minuscule tenement in The Bronx with his mother,

father, and brother. His father wasn’t around much, and, when he was, he was reticent and would snap occasionally, revealing his constrained mental pain. My grandpa says this happened because my great grandfather did not have a father figure in his life. His mother was a classy, sharp lady who was the head secretary at a local police district station. My grandpa and his brother Larry did not care for each other. Gramps said he was very close to his mother, and Larry wasn’t. Perhaps Larry was envious for what he didn’t have.

Decades after little to no communication with his brother, my grandpa decided to spontaneously visit him in Florida, where he resided with his wife. Larry was taken aback at the sudden reappearance of his brother and told him to leave. Since then, the two brothers have not been in contact. My grandpa doesn’t even know if Larry is alive.         

My grandpa is now a retired lawyer, married to my wonderful grandma, and living in a pretty house with an ugly dog named BoBo.

So, what’s important to you, Gramps?

He paused a second, then replied, “Family, kindness, and empathy.”

“Family, because it’s my family. It’s important to stay connected with your family. My brother, father, and I never connected in the way I wished, and sometimes I contemplated what could’ve happened.  But you can’t change the past. So, that’s why family’s important to me.”

Family will always be on my “Top Three Most Important Things” list, too. I can’t imagine not having my older brother, Zeke, or my grandma in my life. I wonder how other kids feel about their families? How do kids trapped and separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border feel?  What about orphans? Too many questions, too few answers.

“Kindness, because growing up and not seeing a lot of kindness made me realize how important it is to have that in the world. Kindness makes the world go round.”

What is kindness? Helping my brother, Eli, who has Down syndrome, get ready in the morning? Telling people what they need to hear, rather than what they want to hear? Maybe, for now, I’ll put wisdom, not kindness, on my list.

“Empathy, because of all the killings and shootings [in this country.] We also need to care for people—people who are not living in as good circumstances as I have. Donald Trump and other people I’ve met have no empathy. Empathy is very important.”

Empathy is something I’ve felt my whole life. It’ll always be important to me like it is important to my grandpa. My grandpa shows his empathy when he works with disabled children. Once he took a disabled child to a Christina Aguilera concert because that child was too young to go by himself. The moments I feel the most empathy are when Eli gets those looks from people. Seeing Eli wonder why people stare at him like he’s a freak makes me sad, and annoyed that they have the audacity to stare.

After this 2 minute and 36-second phone call, my grandpa has helped me define what’s most important to me at this time in my life: family, wisdom, and empathy. Although these things are important now, I realize they can change and most likely will.

When I’m an old woman, I envision myself scrambling through a stack of storage boxes and finding this paper. Perhaps after reading words from my 12-year-old self, I’ll ask myself “What’s important to me?”

Lily Hersch is a sixth-grader at Crest Academy in Salida, Colorado. Lily is an avid indoorsman, finding joy in competitive spelling, art, and of course, writing. She does not like Swiss cheese.

  “Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner

Jonas Buckner

KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory, Gaston, N.C.

Lessons My Nana Taught Me

I walked into the house. In the other room, I heard my cousin screaming at his game. There were a lot of Pioneer Woman dishes everywhere. The room had the television on max volume. The fan in the other room was on. I didn’t know it yet, but I was about to learn something powerful.

I was in my Nana’s house, and when I walked in, she said, “Hey Monkey Butt.”

I said, “Hey Nana.”

Before the interview, I was talking to her about what I was gonna interview her on. Also, I had asked her why I might have wanted to interview her, and she responded with, “Because you love me, and I love you too.”

Now, it was time to start the interview. The first

question I asked was the main and most important question ever: “What three things matter most to you and you only?”

She thought of it very thoughtfully and responded with, “My grandchildren, my children, and my health.”

Then, I said, “OK, can you please tell me more about your health?”

She responded with, “My health is bad right now. I have heart problems, blood sugar, and that’s about it.” When she said it, she looked at me and smiled because she loved me and was happy I chose her to interview.

I replied with, “K um, why is it important to you?”

She smiled and said, “Why is it…Why is my health important? Well, because I want to live a long time and see my grandchildren grow up.”

I was scared when she said that, but she still smiled. I was so happy, and then I said, “Has your health always been important to you.”

She responded with “Nah.”

Then, I asked, “Do you happen to have a story to help me understand your reasoning?”

She said, “No, not really.”

Now we were getting into the next set of questions. I said, “Remember how you said that your grandchildren matter to you? Can you please tell me why they matter to you?”

Then, she responded with, “So I can spend time with them, play with them, and everything.”

Next, I asked the same question I did before: “Have you always loved your grandchildren?” 

She responded with, “Yes, they have always been important to me.”

Then, the next two questions I asked she had no response to at all. She was very happy until I asked, “Why do your children matter most to you?”

She had a frown on and responded, “My daughter Tammy died a long time ago.”

Then, at this point, the other questions were answered the same as the other ones. When I left to go home I was thinking about how her answers were similar to mine. She said health, and I care about my health a lot, and I didn’t say, but I wanted to. She also didn’t have answers for the last two questions on each thing, and I was like that too.

The lesson I learned was that no matter what, always keep pushing because even though my aunt or my Nana’s daughter died, she kept on pushing and loving everyone. I also learned that everything should matter to us. Once again, I chose to interview my Nana because she matters to me, and I know when she was younger she had a lot of things happen to her, so I wanted to know what she would say. The point I’m trying to make is that be grateful for what you have and what you have done in life.

Jonas Buckner is a sixth-grader at KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory in Gaston, North Carolina. Jonas’ favorite activities are drawing, writing, math, piano, and playing AltSpace VR. He found his passion for writing in fourth grade when he wrote a quick autobiography. Jonas hopes to become a horror writer someday.

From The Author: Responses to Student Winners

Dear Emily, Isaac, Antonia, Rory, Praethong, Amanda, Lily, and Jonas,

Your thought-provoking essays sent my head spinning. The more I read, the more impressed I was with the depth of thought, beauty of expression, and originality. It left me wondering just how to capture all of my reactions in a single letter. After multiple false starts, I’ve landed on this: I will stick to the theme of three most important things.

The three things I found most inspirational about your essays:

You listened.

You connected.

We live in troubled times. Tensions mount between countries, cultures, genders, religious beliefs, and generations. If we fail to find a way to understand each other, to see similarities between us, the future will be fraught with increased hostility.

You all took critical steps toward connecting with someone who might not value the same things you do by asking a person who is generations older than you what matters to them. Then, you listened to their answers. You saw connections between what is important to them and what is important to you. Many of you noted similarities, others wondered if your own list of the three most important things would change as you go through life. You all saw the validity of the responses you received and looked for reasons why your interviewees have come to value what they have.

It is through these things—asking, listening, and connecting—that we can begin to bridge the differences in experiences and beliefs that are currently dividing us.

Individual observations

Each one of you made observations that all of us, regardless of age or experience, would do well to keep in mind. I chose one quote from each person and trust those reading your essays will discover more valuable insights.

“Our priorities may seem different, but they come back to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and work to make a positive impact.” 

“You can’t judge a person by what you think , you can only judge a person by what you know .”

Emily (referencing your interviewee, who is battling cancer):

“Master Chief Petty Officer James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me.”

Lily (quoting your grandfather):

“Kindness makes the world go round.”

“Everything should matter to us.”

Praethong (quoting your interviewee, Sandra, on the importance of family):

“It’s important to always maintain that connection you have with each other, your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”

“I wonder if maybe we relearn what is most important when we grow older. That the pressure to be successful subsides and that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world.”

“Listen to what others have to say. Listen to the people who have already experienced hardship. You will learn from them and you can even make their day by giving them a chance to voice their thoughts.”

I end this letter to you with the hope that you never stop asking others what is most important to them and that you to continue to take time to reflect on what matters most to you…and why. May you never stop asking, listening, and connecting with others, especially those who may seem to be unlike you. Keep writing, and keep sharing your thoughts and observations with others, for your ideas are awe-inspiring.

I also want to thank the more than 1,000 students who submitted essays. Together, by sharing what’s important to us with others, especially those who may believe or act differently, we can fill the world with joy, peace, beauty, and love.

We received many outstanding essays for the Winter 2019 Student Writing Competition. Though not every participant can win the contest, we’d like to share some excerpts that caught our eye:

Whether it is a painting on a milky canvas with watercolors or pasting photos onto a scrapbook with her granddaughters, it is always a piece of artwork to her. She values the things in life that keep her in the moment, while still exploring things she may not have initially thought would bring her joy.

—Ondine Grant-Krasno, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif.

“Ganas”… It means “desire” in Spanish. My ganas is fueled by my family’s belief in me. I cannot and will not fail them. 

—Adan Rios, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

I hope when I grow up I can have the love for my kids like my grandma has for her kids. She makes being a mother even more of a beautiful thing than it already is.

—Ashley Shaw, Columbus City Prep School for Girls, Grove City, Ohio

You become a collage of little pieces of your friends and family. They also encourage you to be the best you can be. They lift you up onto the seat of your bike, they give you the first push, and they don’t hesitate to remind you that everything will be alright when you fall off and scrape your knee.

— Cecilia Stanton, Bellafonte Area Middle School, Bellafonte, Pa.

Without good friends, I wouldn’t know what I would do to endure the brutal machine of public education.

—Kenneth Jenkins, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.

My dog, as ridiculous as it may seem, is a beautiful example of what we all should aspire to be. We should live in the moment, not stress, and make it our goal to lift someone’s spirits, even just a little.

—Kate Garland, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif. 

I strongly hope that every child can spare more time to accompany their elderly parents when they are struggling, and moving forward, and give them more care and patience. so as to truly achieve the goal of “you accompany me to grow up, and I will accompany you to grow old.”

—Taiyi Li, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

I have three cats, and they are my brothers and sisters. We share a special bond that I think would not be possible if they were human. Since they do not speak English, we have to find other ways to connect, and I think that those other ways can be more powerful than language.

—Maya Dombroskie, Delta Program Middle School, Boulsburg, Pa.

We are made to love and be loved. To have joy and be relational. As a member of the loneliest generation in possibly all of history, I feel keenly aware of the need for relationships and authentic connection. That is why I decided to talk to my grandmother.

—Luke Steinkamp, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio

After interviewing my grandma and writing my paper, I realized that as we grow older, the things that are important to us don’t change, what changes is why those things are important to us.

—Emily Giffer, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Grosse Pointe Woods, Mich.

The media works to marginalize elders, often isolating them and their stories, and the wealth of knowledge that comes with their additional years of lived experiences. It also undermines the depth of children’s curiosity and capacity to learn and understand. When the worlds of elders and children collide, a classroom opens.

—Cristina Reitano, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.

My values, although similar to my dad, only looked the same in the sense that a shadow is similar to the object it was cast on.

—Timofey Lisenskiy, Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.

I can release my anger through writing without having to take it out on someone. I can escape and be a different person; it feels good not to be myself for a while. I can make up my own characters, so I can be someone different every day, and I think that’s pretty cool.

—Jasua Carillo, Wellness, Business, and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore. 

Notice how all the important things in his life are people: the people who he loves and who love him back. This is because “people are more important than things like money or possessions, and families are treasures,” says grandpa Pat. And I couldn’t agree more.

—Brody Hartley, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.  

Curiosity for other people’s stories could be what is needed to save the world.

—Noah Smith, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio

Peace to me is a calm lake without a ripple in sight. It’s a starry night with a gentle breeze that pillows upon your face. It’s the absence of arguments, fighting, or war. It’s when egos stop working against each other and finally begin working with each other. Peace is free from fear, anxiety, and depression. To me, peace is an important ingredient in the recipe of life.

—JP Bogan, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

From A Teacher

Charles Sanderson

Wellness, Business and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore. 

The Birthday Gift

I’ve known Jodelle for years, watching her grow from a quiet and timid twelve-year-old to a young woman who just returned from India, where she played Kabaddi, a kind of rugby meets Red Rover.

One of my core beliefs as an educator is to show up for the things that matter to kids, so I go to their games, watch their plays, and eat the strawberry jam they make for the county fair. On this occasion, I met Jodelle at a robotics competition to watch her little sister Abby compete. Think Nerd Paradise: more hats made from traffic cones than Golden State Warrior ball caps, more unicorn capes than Nike swooshes, more fanny packs with Legos than clutches with eyeliner.

We started chatting as the crowd chanted and waved six-foot flags for teams like Mystic Biscuits, Shrek, and everyone’s nemesis The Mean Machine. Apparently, when it’s time for lunch at a robotics competition, they don’t mess around. The once-packed gym was left to Jodelle and me, and we kept talking and talking. I eventually asked her about the three things that matter to her most.

She told me about her mom, her sister, and her addiction—to horses. I’ve read enough of her writing to know that horses were her drug of choice and her mom and sister were her support network.

I learned about her desire to become a teacher and how hours at the barn with her horse, Heart, recharge her when she’s exhausted. At one point, our rambling conversation turned to a topic I’ve known far too well—her father.

Later that evening, I received an email from Jodelle, and she had a lot to say. One line really struck me: “In so many movies, I have seen a dad wanting to protect his daughter from the world, but I’ve only understood the scene cognitively. Yesterday, I felt it.”

Long ago, I decided that I would never be a dad. I had seen movies with fathers and daughters, and for me, those movies might as well have been Star Wars, ET, or Alien—worlds filled with creatures I’d never know. However, over the years, I’ve attended Jodelle’s parent-teacher conferences, gone to her graduation, and driven hours to watch her ride Heart at horse shows. Simply, I showed up. I listened. I supported.

Jodelle shared a series of dad poems, as well. I had read the first two poems in their original form when Jodelle was my student. The revised versions revealed new graphic details of her past. The third poem, however, was something entirely different.

She called the poems my early birthday present. When I read the lines “You are my father figure/Who I look up to/Without being looked down on,” I froze for an instant and had to reread the lines. After fifty years of consciously deciding not to be a dad, I was seen as one—and it felt incredible. Jodelle’s poem and recognition were two of the best presents I’ve ever received.

I  know that I was the language arts teacher that Jodelle needed at the time, but her poem revealed things I never knew I taught her: “My father figure/ Who taught me/ That listening is for observing the world/ That listening is for learning/Not obeying/Writing is for connecting/Healing with others.”

Teaching is often a thankless job, one that frequently brings more stress and anxiety than joy and hope. Stress erodes my patience. Anxiety curtails my ability to enter each interaction with every student with the grace they deserve. However, my time with Jodelle reminds me of the importance of leaning in and listening.

In the article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill, she illuminates how we “live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” For the last twenty years, I’ve had the privilege to work with countless of these “remarkable people,” and I’ve done my best to listen, and, in so doing, I hope my students will realize what I’ve known for a long time; their voices matter and deserve to be heard, but the voices of their tias and abuelitos and babushkas are equally important. When we take the time to listen, I believe we do more than affirm the humanity of others; we affirm our own as well.

Charles Sanderson has grounded his nineteen-year teaching career in a philosophy he describes as “Mirror, Window, Bridge.” Charles seeks to ensure all students see themselves, see others, and begin to learn the skills to build bridges of empathy, affinity, and understanding between communities and cultures that may seem vastly different. He proudly teaches at the Wellness, Business and Sports School in Woodburn, Oregon, a school and community that brings him joy and hope on a daily basis.

From   The Author: Response to Charles Sanderson

Dear Charles Sanderson,

Thank you for submitting an essay of your own in addition to encouraging your students to participate in YES! Magazine’s essay contest.

Your essay focused not on what is important to you, but rather on what is important to one of your students. You took what mattered to her to heart, acting upon it by going beyond the school day and creating a connection that has helped fill a huge gap in her life. Your efforts will affect her far beyond her years in school. It is clear that your involvement with this student is far from the only time you have gone beyond the classroom, and while you are not seeking personal acknowledgment, I cannot help but applaud you.

In an ideal world, every teacher, every adult, would show the same interest in our children and adolescents that you do. By taking the time to listen to what is important to our youth, we can help them grow into compassionate, caring adults, capable of making our world a better place.

Your concerted efforts to guide our youth to success not only as students but also as human beings is commendable. May others be inspired by your insights, concerns, and actions. You define excellence in teaching.

Get Stories of Solutions to Share with Your Classroom

Teachers save 50% on YES! Magazine.

Inspiration in Your Inbox

Get the free daily newsletter from YES! Magazine: Stories of people creating a better world to inspire you and your students.

Motivational Speech For Students

Table of Contents

In the journey of life, motivation is the fuel that propels us forward, especially for students aiming to achieve their dreams. Motivational speeches have the power to inspire, uplift, and instill a sense of purpose. In this blog, we’ll explore a few motivational speeches tailored for students, each lasting about two minutes.

Fill Out the Form for Expert Academic Guidance!

Please indicate your interest Live Classes Books Test Series Self Learning

Verify OTP Code (required)

I agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy .

Fill complete details

Target Exam ---

Also Check: Motivational Quotes for Students

Long and Short Motivational Speeches For Students

Whether you are looking for a 2 minute motivational speech for students, an inspirational speech, a motivational speech for success in life, or a short motivational speech, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we have provided some sample motivational speeches for students that will help ignite their passion, inspire perseverance, and drive them towards achieving their goals.

Also Check: Motivational Slogans

Short Motivational Speech For Student by Teacher

Title: “The Power of Perseverance”

Dear students,

Today, I want to talk to you about the power of perseverance. Life is not always smooth sailing; it’s more like a roller coaster with its ups and downs. But remember, it’s the bumps and twists that make the ride exciting and memorable.

When you face challenges or setbacks, it’s easy to feel discouraged. However, it’s during these tough times that your true strength shines through. It’s the moments when you refuse to give up that define your character and set the stage for your success.

Also Check: Motivational Stories for Students

Think of every obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to your goals. Remember, every successful person you admire faced failures but never let them define their journey.

Believe in yourself, your abilities, and your dreams. Surround yourself with positive influences and keep moving forward. The path to success may be long and challenging, but with perseverance, dedication, and a positive attitude, you’ll overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.

Best Motivation Speech for Students

Title: “Embrace Change and Innovation”

In a world that’s constantly evolving, embracing change and innovation is essential for success. Change may seem intimidating, but it’s also the source of growth and progress.

Also Check: Speech on Success

Imagine a world where nothing ever changed – it would be stagnant and unexciting. But change brings new opportunities, experiences, and discoveries. It’s a chance to break free from the ordinary and explore the extraordinary.

As students, you have the unique advantage of being naturally curious and adaptable. Use these qualities to your advantage. Embrace change as a chance to learn and innovate. Be open to new ideas and experiences.

Remember that many of the world’s greatest achievements came from those who dared to think differently, who dared to challenge the status quo. So, don’t fear change; welcome it with open arms. Embrace innovation, and you’ll find yourself on a path to success that’s filled with endless possibilities.

Also Check: Education Quotes

Motivational Speech in English For Students

Title: “The Power of Positive Thinking”

One of the most powerful tools you have at your disposal is your mind. The way you think can shape your reality. That’s why I want to emphasize the importance of positive thinking.

Positive thinking isn’t about denying the challenges or difficulties in life; it’s about approaching them with a constructive and optimistic mindset. When you think positively, you become more resilient and better equipped to face adversity.

Also Check: Speech on Knowledge is Power

Start each day with a positive affirmation. Believe in your abilities and your potential. Visualize your success and let that vision drive you forward. Surround yourself with positive influences, people who uplift and inspire you.

Remember that setbacks are a part of life, but they don’t define your future. Instead of dwelling on failures, use them as stepping stones to your goals. With a positive mindset, you’ll not only overcome obstacles, but you’ll also attract opportunities and success.

Long Motivational Speech for Students by Teacher

Ladies and gentlemen, dear students,

Today, I stand before you not just as your teacher but as someone who believes in your immense potential and the bright future that awaits you. Each one of you possesses unique talents, dreams, and aspirations. I’m here to share a motivational message that I hope will inspire you on your educational journey.

First and foremost, I want you to understand that learning is a lifelong adventure. It doesn’t stop when you leave these school walls or graduate from college. Learning is a continuous process, and the more you embrace it, the more you grow and succeed in life.

Also Check: Speech on Self Discipline and Its Importance

As your teacher, my role is not just to impart knowledge but to ignite a spark within you, a curiosity that drives you to explore, question, and innovate. Remember, the great inventors, scientists, writers, and leaders of our world were once students just like you. They dared to dream, to think differently, and to challenge the status quo.

In the face of challenges, don’t be discouraged. Instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Thomas Edison once said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His perseverance led to the invention of the light bulb, which has illuminated the world ever since.

Every one of you has the potential to achieve greatness. But it’s essential to believe in yourself, to have faith in your abilities, and to set clear goals. Visualize your success, work diligently, and never underestimate the power of hard work and dedication.

In the fast-paced world we live in, adaptability is crucial. Embrace change and innovation. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore new horizons. Remember that progress often stems from those who dared to take risks and embrace the unknown.

Also Check: How Inspirational Movies are Related to Education

Finally, always be kind, compassionate, and respectful to others. Success is not just about personal achievements; it’s about making a positive impact on the lives of those around you. Help and support one another as you journey through life.

In closing, I want you to know that I have faith in each one of you. You have the potential to achieve your dreams and make a significant difference in the world. So, go forth with confidence, embrace every opportunity, and remember that your teachers are here to support you every step of the way. Your future is bright, and I can’t wait to see the incredible heights you’ll reach. Dream big, work hard, and never stop learning. Thank you.

Also Check: 50 Most powerful Motivational Quotes for students and Kids

These motivational speeches for Students are a reminder that as students, you have the power to shape your destiny. Perseverance, embracing change, and cultivating positive thinking are the keys to unlocking your potential and achieving success in life. Use these motivational speeches as a source of inspiration as you embark on your journey of personal growth and achievement. Remember, the best is yet to come!

Motivational Speeches For Students FAQ’s

What is the best motivational speech for students.

Determining the best motivational speech can be subjective as different speeches resonate differently with individuals. Some popular speeches for students include Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford Commencement Address, J.K. Rowling's Harvard Commencement Speech, and Randy Pausch's 'The Last Lecture.'

What are the top 3 inspirational speeches?

The top three inspirational speeches often cited include Martin Luther King Jr.'s, I Have a Dream speech, Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford Commencement Address, and Winston Churchill's , We Shall Fight on the Beaches speech.

How do you start a motivational speech for students?

Starting a motivational speech for students involves capturing attention with an engaging opening, possibly sharing a personal story or a powerful quote, addressing the audience directly, setting a positive tone, and stating the purpose or theme of the speech clearly.

How to write a motivational speech for students by a teacher?

To craft a motivational speech for students, teachers can start by understanding their audience, incorporating personal anecdotes or relatable stories, using positive and encouraging language, addressing challenges students might face, offering practical advice, and concluding with a call to action or inspiration.

How do you motivate students in a school speech?

When delivering a speech to motivate students in school, it's crucial to connect emotionally, use engaging visuals or stories, offer practical examples of success, set achievable goals, emphasize the importance of persistence, and reinforce positivity and belief in their abilities.

Related content

Talk to our academic expert!

Language --- English Hindi Marathi Tamil Telugu Malayalam

Get access to free Mock Test and Master Class

Register to Get Free Mock Test and Study Material

Offer Ends in 5:00

Speech Writing

Motivational Speech Topics

Good Motivational Speech Topics for Beginners

11 min read

Published on: Apr 20, 2022

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

People also read

The Art of Extemporaneous Speech: Mastering the Unexpected

Commemorative Speech Definition & Complete Writing Guide

Learn How to Write an Acceptance Speech like Experts

Best Impromptu Speech Topics for Public Speaking

Types of Speeches: The Ultimate Guide for Your Next Presentation

How to Write a Speech That Stays With Your Audience

Share this article

Are you a student searching for the perfect topic to deliver an inspiring and impactful motivational speech ? 

You want to engage your audience, leave a lasting impression, and stand out from the rest. 

With the right topic, it can be achieved!

In this blog post, we have compiled the best topics for motivational speeches for students. These topics will surely captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. 

Explore these topics to unleash your potential to inspire and motivate others. 

Get ready to make a difference!

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

On This Page On This Page -->

Motivational Speech Topics for College Students

• How to finish your homework in no time?
• To conquer the world, you need to be disciplined.
• Professional actors shouldn’t be allowed to play poker.
• What opportunities are opened by drones for package delivery?
• Motivating students to participate in college sports events.
• What is the significance of having meditations early in the morning?
• What is the role of women in changing the world?
• Video games encourage teamwork and cooperation when played with others.
• Dealing with the challenges of contemporary life as a family.
• An MBA degree doesn’t guarantee business success.

Motivational Speech Topics for High School Students

• The scholarship process for high school students & parents.
• Gain market share by exceeding customer expectations.
• What is the best age to own a mobile phone?
• How can ancient wonders be captured in 3D?
• Why is sleep vital for anyone who wishes to succeed?
• We should all grow our vegetables.
• Poor leadership is the main cause of business bankruptcy.
• Revisiting the part of the church in modern society.
• Solutions for people who lost their jobs to Covid 19.
• Importance of meditation.

Motivational Speech Topics for Middle School Students

• Learning or being involved in a multicultural environment advantage.
• The secret of success.
• Learn to accept criticism and negative feedback.
• How to dream big?
• What do winners do to win?
• Accomplishments of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Laughter is the best medicine.
• Academic achievements boost self-confidence.
• Conflicts are necessary for healthy relationships.
• Visualize the future of information.

Good Motivational Speech Topics For School Assembly 

• Pursuing Your Passion with Determination
• Learning and Growing from Setbacks
• Embracing Self-Belief and Confidence
• Building Resilience and Perseverance
• Spreading Positivity and Compassion
• Mapping Your Path to Achievement
• Cultivating a Positive Attitude for Growth
• Celebrating Differences and Fostering Inclusion
• Collaborating for Success
• Inspiring Social Change Through Service and Leadership

Motivational Speech Topics for Exam 

• Strategies to Stay Calm and Confident.
• Harnessing Optimism for Exam Success.
• Developing Effective Study Habits
• Overcoming Procrastination
• Embracing Growth Mindset
• Creating a Study Schedule for Exam Excellence.
• Test-Taking Strategies
• Bouncing Back from Setbacks and Performing Your Best.
• Inspiring Yourself to Keep Going.
• Using the Power of Visualization for Exam Triumph.

Motivational Speech Topics for Youth

• The importance of constant professional self-improvement.
• How can youths be good ambassadors of social media?
• Personal experience is more valuable than knowledge gained at school.
• What experience has given me the most insight into myself?
• Benefits for resilience associated with bigger businesses.
• High-quality education and its impact and importance.
• Being a Better Role Model to our Children
• Treat others the way you wish to be treated.
• How to build self-esteem in school and at home?
• Effective listening is more important than talking.

Motivational Speech Topics for Employees

• Both men and women employees should be paid equally.
• The importance of goal setting.
• How to handle mistakes at work?
• How does self-motivation Work?
• Balancing social life with a job.
• Advantages for resilience connected with larger companies.
• Dealing with difficult people at the workplace.
• Hard work always pays off.
• Diagonal communication is critical for a company’s performance.
• Teamwork is important in an emerging business.

Motivational Speech Topics for Business

• Motivating your employees via appreciation.
• Use call-to-action strategies in your business.
• The seven most expensive words in business – We have always done it that way.
• Investing in social change for more sustainable business.
• Making use of customer comments by companies for self-improvement.
• Take responsibility for your actions and choices.
• Steps in Monroe’s motivated sequence.
• Dealing with demanding clients at work.
• Promote business with new tricks.
• How do you hire skilled people in the company?

Motivational Speech Topics for Teachers

• Closer contact with nature makes you feel better.
• The teaching profession should be paid equally to other professions.
• Motivations and habits of successful people.
• Teachers want to build a friendly relationship with students.
• Teachers should teach students about the real-life world.
• How do you overcome job stress?
• Teachers are the role models for the students.
• Success is a new journey.
• Teachers should give more attention to nil students.
• The teacher profession should be paid well as compared to other professions.

Funny Motivational Speech Topics

• To become old and wise, you must first be young and stupid.
• Why does everything that is prohibited become twice as tempting?
• Making fun is more important than studying/working.
• When nothing goes right, go left.
• Why should there be insurance to cover breakups?
• How to screw up a job interview.
• The advantages of wearing braces.
• How cat memes are taking over the internet.
• Five things to count besides sheep when going to sleep.
• How to install cameras in student locker rooms nobody can discover.

Persuasive Motivational Speech Topics

Need some persuasive speech topics ? Check out this list!

• Enjoying the moment is more important than clicking the pictures.
• The meaning of colors in different world cultures.
• Vegetarian food proved non-lethal to meat-eaters.
• Leaving a company to work for a competitor is unethical.
• Studying arts is good for the mind.
• What is the importance of education for becoming more professional?
• How staying at home has helped conserve the environment.
• How to achieve targets without getting stressed.
• Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
• Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?

Easy Motivational Speech Topics 

• Men shouldn't open doors to women.
• Why is losing necessary in order to succeed?
• Art of recovering from failures
• Mastering emergency technologies. 
• Should countries borrow loans from others?
• Public speaking makes you nervous?
• Post-graduation tips for US students.
• World’s greatest leaders
• Prioritize your daily goals.
• Climbing the ladder

Inspirational Speech Topics 

• The Power of Resilience
• Embracing Change
• Finding Your Passion
• Overcoming Fear
• The Art of Gratitude
• The Strength of Unity
• Embracing Failure
• The Gift of Empathy
• Unleashing Creativity
• The Power of Mindfulness

5-Minute Motivational Speech Topics 

• The internet kills communication.
• The art of healing through letting go
• Quick-weight-loss advice
• Picking the right vet
• The importance of grandparents
• Training beyond professional attainment
• Jewelry defines your worth
• Internet chat rooms are not safe
• Britain won't leave the eurozone.
• Effective ways to communicate

Motivational Speech Topics About Life 

• Self-improvement is a background app.
• How can youths break bad habits?
• Happiness can be measured.
• The best motivators in life
• Don’t wait for motivation
• Nursing jobs are rewarding for people
• Why do winners win and losers lose?
• Sell ideas more, rather than benefits
• Who inspires me and why
• The story of Mahatma Gandhi

Interesting Motivational Speech Topics 

• Riding a bike is not that easy.
• The efficiency of the school curriculum.
• Think positive, act positive
• Incorporating nature into city planning.
• Time management is crucial
• Oprah Winfrey’s life.
• Addicted people are ill. 
• Basic mediation types.
• Ways to improve acne.
• Why are celebrating birthdays important? 

Motivational Speech Topics About Education 

• Benefits of getting online education
• Why is education important?
• Perks of free education
• Successful Stories of students
• Why do schools provide free education?
• Education is the main thing for a kid
• Parents should pay attention to their kid's education
• The education system in Canada
• Higher education system in the UK
• University education has become important worldwide 

Motivational Speech Topics About Science And Technology

• How do algorithms shape our world?
• Growth of robotics
• How are brains different from computers?
• How to improve the internet?
• Establishing colonies on Mars.
• How do robots make our life easy?
• Robots should have rights.
• All cars should be automatic.
• The importance of oxygen
• Impact of drones 

Motivational Speech Topics About Environment and Social Life

• The pollution of today’s world.
• Rain forests need to be protected.
• Is water a renewable resource?
• Is biodiversity really at risk?
• The joys of nature.
• Greenery is important for life.
• We need a healthy environment.
• The benefits of recycling
• Peaceful environment  
• Why do plants give peace?

Sound Mind, Sound Body Motivational Speech Topics 

• Energize Your Body, Empower Your Mind.
• The Impact of Healthy Eating on Mental Well-being.
• Prioritizing Mental Health in a Busy World.
• Taking Time for Yourself to Recharge and Thrive.
• How Physical Activity Boosts Mental Clarity.
• Building Resilience through Physical and Mental Wellness.
• Integrating Exercise and Mental Fitness into Your Routine.
• Cultivating Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance.
• Enhancing Self-esteem through Physical and Mental Wellness.
• Harnessing the Power of a Sound Mind and Body for Achievement.

Motivational Speech Topics About Sports and Games

• Rugby is a dangerous sport.
• Should sports fans be somehow censored?
• How to make fishing lures?
• Bodybuilding is a male sport. 
• Boxing isn’t entertaining.
• Why do people play football?
• Boxing does not look good for women.
• History of sports 
• Why are winners happy?
• Chess tactics 

Motivational Speech Topics on Government and Politics 

• Your Role in Shaping the Future.
• Embracing Political Activism
• Leading with Integrity
• Promoting Social Equality
• Empowering the Leaders of Tomorrow.
• Taking Action for a Sustainable Future.
• Advancing Gender Equality in Politics
• Fighting Corruption
• Strengthening Democracy
• Overcoming Divisions for a United Society.

Tips for Choosing the Best Motivational Speech Topic 

Crafting an impactful speech starts with selecting the right topic—one that aligns with your passion and inspires them to take action. 

Here are some expert tips that will help you in picking a good motivational speech topic.

• Identify Your Passion: Select a topic that aligns with your interests and values. When you're passionate about the subject, your enthusiasm will naturally shine through and inspire others.
• Consider Your Audience: Understand the needs and interests of your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with them and addresses their aspirations, challenges, or goals.
• Uniqueness and Originality: Look for a fresh angle or unique perspective on a common topic. This will help your speech stand out and captivate your audience's attention.
• Relevance and Timeliness: Select a topic that is current and relevant to the present context. Addressing issues or trends that are currently impactful will make your speech more relatable and engaging.
• Inspirational and Actionable: Opt for a topic that not only motivates but also provides practical insights or actionable steps. Empower your audience to take meaningful action based on your speech.
• Personal Stories and Examples: Share personal anecdotes or stories that illustrate the key points of your speech. These narratives make your speech relatable, memorable, and inspiring.
• Balance Challenge and Encouragement: Select a topic that acknowledges the challenges your audience may face. But also provides encouragement and strategies to overcome them. Strike a balance between realism and optimism.

You can also take help from this video guide on how to choose a captivating topic for your speech.

Now, you have effective motivational speech topics for your speech. However, if you need help in speech writing, college essay, research papers, and other types of academic assignments, you can try our AI writing tool .

Or, consult CollegeEssay.org ; we offer the best essay writing service. Our professional writers will help you and solve all your motivational speech writing-related problems. 

Say, ' write me an essay ' and get help from our professionals to pick the best inspirational speech topic.

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

Enjoy this post? Rate it!

Motivational speech | Top 10 speeches students should listen to

Words have power. sometimes, you hear a speech that inspires you and completely changes your life. this is why we have curated a list of the top 10 motivational speeches for students that will change your life. stick with us till the end to find some bonus speeches, table of contents, motivational speech for students | an overview , steve jobs: how to live before you die, elizabeth gilbert: your elusive creative genius, j.k. rowling: the fringe benefits of failure, and the importance of imagination, simon sinek: how great leaders inspire action, brené brown: the power of vulnerability, susan cain: the power of introverts, tim urban: inside the mind of a master procrastinator, sarah lewis: embrace the near win, al pacino: inch by inch, kal penn: depauw university commencement speech , bonus speeches, what are the benefits of listening to a motivational speech for students, qualities of the best motivational speakers, structure of motivational speeches for students, what’s next.

Do you remember the time you felt discouraged and needed some motivation to move forward? Well, a lot of things can help you move past this feeling, including good sleep or some motivational speeches. Motivational speeches can help you resonate with the speaker and believe that you are not alone. You can also gain some insights into solving the challenges life throws at you by listening to these speeches. 

Over the years, leaders and motivational speakers have been sharing great ideas and capturing the human imagination. Every speaker has, in one way or another, influenced us to visualize a better future. But some speakers have entirely changed the way we see the world. These are the ones who have inspired us the most. And we have made sure to include every such speaker’s motivational speech in this blog. Read on!

The man, the myth, the legend. At his Stanford University commencement speech, Steve Jobs, CEO, and co-founder of Apple and Pixar, speaks about trusting your gut. It somehow already knows where you need to be. He also speaks about “connecting the dots.”

When you look back at your life, he says, you will see that everything was connected. It led you to a meaningful and fated destination. This talk by Steve Jobs is a life-changing motivational speech for students. It gives you a sense of love and appreciation for this innovative entrepreneur and visionary, who had a reputation for being tough on his subordinates.

Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of the best-selling book “Eat, Pray, Love,” speaks about her ideas on creativity. She delves into the history of creative genius and gives a background on the various definitions, as well as the evolution of beliefs on creativity throughout the centuries.

In this motivational speech, Elizabeth shares her own experience with creative genius and her struggle with the ability to connect to it again. I love this talk because she makes creativity sound like a mystical and divine gift that must be caught by those who are lucky enough to harness it. She presents some very interesting concepts, and the historical background is also very thought-provoking.

J.K. Rowling is not only a spellbinding writer (pun intended) but also one of the best motivational speakers in the world. Her Commencement Speech at Harvard shared her story with millions of students, urging them to not be afraid of failure and inspiring them to tap into the power of imagination.

Before her work was recognized, Rowling was a poor single mother who used to teach English at night school and write during her free time. It was facing failure head-on that taught her the lessons that she needed to succeed in life. In her motivational speech, she also talks about how imagination is “the power that enables us to empathize with humans” and implores us to use it for the good of others. 

Simon Sinek has a simple but powerful model for inspirational leadership, all starting with a golden circle and the question “Why?”. The author and ethnographer (an anthropologist who studies specific human subcultures) speak about his findings on the most effective method to inspire change. He goes into detail about the parts of the brain that a leader must affect to influence others, as well as the type of behavior that inspires others to take action for a cause.

“Start with the Why” is Simon’s main tag line and is based on the idea that if you can appeal to people’s hearts and make them truly believe what you believe, then they will trust and follow you. This motivational English speech is interesting for students because it gives you a scientific breakdown of the human brain and thinking patterns for decision-making.

Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. She is also the author of a #1 New York Times bestselling book and the speaker of this motivational speech on the power of vulnerability.

According to Brené, the popular opinion that being vulnerable makes us emotional and weak is wrong. In this motivational speech, she invites us to drop the armor that “protects” us. According to Brown, “when we open our minds to new experiences, we find joy, belonging, creativity, authenticity, and love.”

It can be difficult, even shameful, to be an introvert in a culture where being social and outgoing are prized above all else. But, as Susan Cain argues in this motivational speech, introverts bring extraordinary talents and abilities to the world and should be encouraged and celebrated. 

Business and entrepreneurship are often thought to be a game played best by the outgoing. However, in this passionate case for introverted value, Cain shares that really the best environment for every person to be in is the one that stimulates their productivity and creativity best. While introverts might brainstorm best in small groups or in isolation, it does not matter how they do their best work. It’s the quality and contribution of the work brought forth that matters most for all personality types, introverts included.

Tim Urban’s TED speech on how procrastination works is super-insightful and motivational. According to Tim, the brains of procrastinators work differently. The Rational Decision-Maker in us wants to do things the right way, but our Instant-Gratification Monkey (who likes to sit back and relax) always gets in the way. Until…the Panic Monster in our minds starts screaming about deadlines.

One of the funniest and most inspirational speeches for students, ‘Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator’ does not give you an excuse for procrastinating. Instead, the ending of this motivational speech will push you to get out of bed and start working RIGHT NOW!

At her first museum job, art historian Sarah Lewis noticed something important about an artist she was studying: Not every artwork was a total masterpiece.

In this motivational speech, she asks us to consider the role of the almost-failure, the near win, in our own lives. In our pursuit of success and mastery, is it actually our near wins that push us forward?

Next on our list is Al Pacino’s speech in the American Football drama. This famous motivational speech gets your blood flowing; it’s perfect for watching before you know you have to tackle a difficult day. The motivational speech revolves around inches being crucial in American Football, even if we tend to overlook them. 

He discusses how his squad can get an advantage over opponents, even if it’s only by an inch. “When we add all those inches up, that’s what makes the difference between winning and losing,” he declares. This holds true in many situations; individuals who go above and beyond are more likely to succeed. And while you may not realize it at first, it is the sum of all the minor efforts that leads to triumph. Motivational speeches like this one give will you a boost right when you need it.

Kal Penn addressed DePauw University’s class of 2014, where he motivated the graduates to always strive for excellence and success.

His simple speech hit the right chords as he talked about keeping in touch with people and not worrying unnecessarily. He talked about innovation being the future and how the lives of the students are full of potential. 

As promised, here are the 5 bonus motivational speeches students should listen to-

• How to make stress your friend, Kelly McGonigal
• Your body language may shape who you are, by Amy Cuddy
• What I learned from 100 days of rejection, Jia Jiang
• The danger of a single story, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
• 10 ways to have a better conversation, Celeste Headlee

Besides these, check out some fictional motivational speeches- 

• The Pursuit of Happyness –  Protect your dream by Will Smith
• Rocky – Take the hits by Sylvester Stallone 
• Miracle – You were born for this by Kurt Russel 
• Independence Day – President Whitmore’s Speech
• Peaceful Warrior– Take Out the Trash by Socrates

Although we have mentioned various motivational speeches for you to listen to, do these help? It turns out that there are various benefits of listening to these speeches, such as-

• Motivational speeches for students help in changing their perspective toward things. This can help you sail through the challenges life throws at you with a positive attitude . 
• If you are listening to a motivational speaker from your industry, it might help you gain new skills by listening to their innovative ideas. 
• You can enhance your knowledge about different career fields by following motivational speakers of diverse fields, and being well-informed always gives you an edge. 
• You might find something to relate to while listening to these best speeches for students. Listening to their struggles and how they moved past them can help you face your challenges head-on. 

Besides listening to motivational speeches, you can also research some written motivational speeches for students to get inspired. 

If you are confused about which motivational speeches for students you should listen to, check out these qualities in the motivational speaker to follow.

• Passion- Motivational speakers are often passionate about doing good for the world or giving back to society. They are aware that words have power, and their passion can be seen in how they present their motivational speech.
• Confidence- If motivational speakers do not have confidence, the audience won’t be interested in listening to them. When they deliver motivational speeches for students, their conviction and the delivery of speech can also inspire others to engage in discussions. 
• Empathy- One of the essential qualities of successful motivational speakers is empathy. These speakers talk about what they have gone through and understand where the audience is coming from and what they need to listen to. They can put themselves in the shoes of the audience and tailor their motivational speech to inspire them.
• Knowledge- Motivational speakers have years of experience in their industry and possess excellent knowledge. They are aware of their struggles, strengths, and weaknesses and talk about these things in their motivational speeches for students.

We have talked endlessly about the best motivational speeches for students and the amazing qualities of the speakers. It’s time to share a bit about how to structure your speeches, in case you want to give one. 

• The first and the most important aspect is knowing the purpose of giving a motivational speech. Choose a theme that aligns with your ideas and structure your speech around that theme. 
• Understand the kind of audience you will be interacting with. It will help you write for the right audience and build a connection with them. Besides, following this tip can make the speech engaging and interactive. 
• Be creative and begin with a hook statement that will help you get the attention of your audience. Also, include personal experiences in your motivational speeches for students as they might find them relatable, making the speech engaging.
• Conclude your speech by resharing your purpose and the speech’s main point. Besides, it is a good idea to add a call to action by either asking the audience a question, telling them to take action, etc. 
• Do not forget to review your speech by reciting it aloud before presenting it to the audience. It will help you make the necessary edits and tailor it as needed. 

We hope you enjoyed these speeches on student life and found as much value in them as we have! It is important to take these powerful words to your heart and pursue your dreams. iSchoolConnect helps you do just that. We encourage students to follow their dreams of studying abroad and help them every step of the way to achieve them. So, if you have any questions about studying abroad, feel free to reach out to us ! 

Read more: Top 100 graduate schools with low GPA requirements

Q1. How to begin a motivational speech to capture people’s attention?

Answer- Here are some tips that can help you make your motivational speech engaging-

• Begin with creating a hook. You can do this by starting your speech with a question to make it conversational. 
• Include storytelling in your speech. You can include your personal story or a story of a historical event, personality, etc. 
• Include the unexpected; people love the surprise element and something different from regular speeches. 

Q2. What are some self-motivation techniques? 

Answer- Try these techniques to motivate yourself in difficult situations-

• Always be a student, i.e., keep learning from different people and situations as everyone and everything will teach you something. Besides, the more you learn, the more you know, enhancing your confidence. 
• Break your goals into smaller chunks. It will be easier this way to fulfill every part of that goal. This, in turn, will always keep you motivated to move forward. 
• Keep a check on your patterns. Know what makes you feel demotivated and try to improve those situations or change your perspective. 

Q3. What is positive motivation?

Answer- Positive motivation refers to a situation in which a person works towards a goal to get a reward or appreciation in return.

Q4. What is the best topic for motivational speeches for students?

Answer- Some of the best motivational speech topics include-

• Why prioritizing your daily goals is important?
• Becoming a role model.
• Why is patience the best virtue? 
• Focus on self-improvement
• Education- a catalyst for personal growth

Q5. How does inspiration impact people?

Answer- Inspiration can help people change their perspective toward things. It can also motivate them to be creative and progress towards their goals. They can definitely move past their limitations with some dose of inspiration. 

Q6. Who is the best motivational speaker in the world?

Answer- Don’t miss out on listening to the motivational speeches of these amazing motivational speakers-

• Dave Ramsey
• Tony Robbins

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 4.2 / 5. Vote count: 106

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

People also liked

Need of motivational quotes for students to study hard

Top quotes to wish luck for exam

10 incredible top women CTOs to follow

Top 9 famous philosophers of the 1900s

Top 10 YouTubers in India

100 famous quotes and thoughts in English to brighten your day!

12 thoughts on “motivational speech | top 10 speeches students should listen to”, see what others are saying.

Hi, everything is going sound here and ofcourse everfy one is sharing information, that’s truly good, keep upp writing.

Everything iis very opn with a very clear explanation of the issues. It was really informative. Your websikte is extremely helpful. Thawnk you ffor sharing!

It has lot of information required for motivational speakers. I found it useful….thank u.

Somebody essentially lend a hand to make seriously posts I’d state. This is the first time I frequented your website page and too this point? I surprised with the analysis you made to create tyis particular post incredible. Excellent job!

Hello There. I found your blog the usage of msn. That is a very well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and coome bawck to read extra of youyr useful information. Thanks for the post. I will certainly comeback.

Your writing has been very beautiful. A person can know a lot from this writing. We should like you to take some new information on this on this subject and we will have some new information,so that we can go to something new.

Appreciate the efforts

Woah! I’m really enjoying the template/theme of this site.

It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s very difficult to get that “perfect balance” between superb usability and visual appearance. I must say that you’ve done a great job with this. Also, the blog loads extremely fast for me on Safari.

Excellent Blog!

My brother recommended I might like this web site. He was totally right. This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine just how much time I had spent for this info! Thanks!

Hi Brodie! Thank you so much for your comment! If you have any other study abroad questions you’d like to ask, you can always post them here at our Study Abroad Discussion page .

I love motivation speeches it means a lot and i am just a 12 year old kid I also have to make a motivational speech but i don’t know what to talk about?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Start your journey with iSchoolConnect

Need help with your study abroad applications? Try iSchoolConnect for free!

• Where to Study? USA | UK | Canada | Australia | Singapore | Netherlands | Ireland | Germany | New Zealand
• Tests and Preparation GRE | GMAT | IELTS | TOEFL | SAT | PTE
• Visa Process Student visa for USA | Student visa for Canada | Student visa for UK
• Programs and Universities How to choose a university? | How to choose a career? | University interview tips
• Application Process How to apply? | Letter of Recommendation (LOR) | Essay and Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Document checklist | Finance documents
• Fees and Finances Cost of studying abroad | How to apply for scholarships? | Types of scholarships | Student loan | Accommodation | Part-time jobs
• Calculators Calculate your chances of studying abroad | Calculate cost of studying abroad | Which scholarship are you eligible for?

Home › Inspirational Graduation Speeches

Inspirational Graduation Speeches

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. See our disclosure for more info.

Do you have a graduating son or daughter? A high school or college graduation is a major milestone in life that should not be ignored. The graduation ceremony celebrates hard work and encourages students to move into the world to achieve great things. This hopeful message is further cemented through an inspirational graduation speech.

As you celebrate graduation day and wish your student good luck, consider the following commencement advice you can share as well as inspirational quotes for a happy graduation.

Here are the best graduation speeches and inspirational message graduation quotes to inspire you and change your life.

Page Contents

1. Barack Obama – Howard University, 2016

You have to go through life with more than just passion for change; you need a strategy. I’ll repeat that. I want you to have passion, but you have to have a strategy. Not just awareness but action. Not just hashtags, but votes. Barack Obama

During his graduation message, Barack Obama spoke with hope. He urged the graduating students to be hardworking yet pragmatic as they sought justice, equality, and freedom. Howard University is one of the nation’s most distinguished and historically Black universities.

In 2020, Barack Obama also shared a graduation message to the Class of 2020 as part of Graduate Together: America Honors the High School Class of 2020 . These students had to learn to overcome obstacles and challenges that classes before them had not had to deal with due to the pandemic.

The disappointments of missing a live graduation, those will pass pretty quick…What remains true is that your graduation marks your passage into adulthood—the time when you begin to take charge of your own life. It’s when you get to decide what’s important to you: the kind of career you want to pursue. Who you want to build a family with. The values you want to live by. And given the current state of the world, that may be kind of scary. Barack Obama

Obama goes on to offer hope and support as graduating students set out to navigate a very new landscape and shape a new world.

2. David Foster Wallace – Kenyon Graduation Speech, 2005

There are these two young fish swimming along, and they happen to meet an older fish swimming the other way, who nods at them and says, “Morning, boys. How’s the water?” And the two young fish swim on for a bit, and then eventually, one of them looks over at the other and goes, “What the hell is water? David Foster Wallace

In this commencement address, Wallace reminds us that we often forget, or take for granted, the most obvious things around us. He acknowledges it’s difficult to stay aware of what’s happening in the world, especially when you’re too busy dealing with the monologue inside your head.

That’s what a college education is about, according to him. It’s learning how to think and exercising some degree of control over your thoughts so you can choose what to pay attention to.

Our thoughts affect our realities, and the ability to choose how you “construct meaning from experience” will determine the lenses from which you see the world and how you react in return.

3. Natalie Portman – Harvard Graduation Speech 2015

Sometimes your insecurities and your inexperience may lead you, too, to embrace other people’s expectations, standards, or values. But you can harness that inexperience to carve out your own path, one that is free of the burden of knowing how things are supposed to be, a path that is defined by its own particular set of reasons . Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman majored in psychology at Harvard University because she believed it would help her acting. She graduated in 2003. In her commencement speech at the 2015 graduation ceremony, she spoke of her own self-doubt and gave an inspiring, funny , and wisdom-filled speech for the graduating class.

Portman said even though she was a successful student and went on to find success as an actress, she still struggled with her own worth but eventually learned to set her own goals.

4. Ellen DeGeneres – Tulane University, 2009

Never follow anyone else’s path, unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path and by all means you should follow that. Don’t give advice, it will come back and bite you in the ass. Don’t take anyone’s advice. So my advice to you is to be true to yourself and everything will be fine. Ellen Degeneres

This is one of the funniest graduation speeches ever! All humor aside, this speech shows why  it’s better to be true to yourself instead of trying desperately to be a second-rate version of someone else.

For years, Ellen thought being bisexual might prevent her from being a successful stand-up comedian, but it’s just not the case. Ellen proved that you could be successful, whoever you are, if you worked hard and learned from your past experiences— even one as sad as the death of a loved one.

5. Charlie Munger – University of California Law School, 2007

*Skip to 4:08 for the actual speech

You’re not going to get very far in life based on what you already know. You’re going to advance in life by what you’re going to learn after you leave here. Charlie Munger

Education doesn’t stop after you graduate from college. It doesn’t stop after you finish your MBA or PhD either. Munger says, “Wisdom acquisition is a moral duty. It’s not just something you do to advance in life.”

It’s a moral duty because it’s only through continuous learning that we can add to the vast knowledge of man kind. If we stopped learning, progress in all industries—computers, finance, engineering, biology, stops as well.

6. Michelle Obama – Eastern Kentucky University, 2013

If you’re a Democrat, spend some time talking to a Republican. And if you’re a Republican, have a chat with a Democrat. Maybe you’ll find some common ground, maybe you won’t. But if you honestly engage with an open mind and an open heart, I guarantee you’ll learn something. And goodness knows we need more of that, because we know what happens when we only talk to people who think like we do — we just get more stuck in our ways, more divided, and it gets harder to come together for a common purpose. Michelle Obama

As far as inspirational speeches go, Michelle Obama’s speech is very actionable. Her advice is simple (not easy), talk to each other with an open mind.

Different religion, race, political stand, it doesn’t matter. We can all learn from one another.

7. Jim Carrey – Maharashi University of Management, 2014

This is one of my favorite motivational speeches because Jim Carrey is such a good example of his message.

So many of us choose our path out of fear disguised as practicality. My father could have been a great comedian, but he didn’t believe that that was possible for him, and so he made a conservative choice. Instead, he got a safe job as an account. Jim Carrey

Carrey’s father lost his accounting job when he was 12, and it was then he realized that failure is inevitable , whether you’re doing what you want or not. If that’s the case, you might as well take a stab at doing something you love.

8. J.K Rowling – Harvard Commencement Address, 2008

I was set free, because my greatest fear had been realized, and I was still alive, and I still had a daughter whom I adored, and I had an old typewriter and a big idea. J.K. Rowling

This is probably one of the most inspirational videos for writers and creatives everywhere.

Rowling was suffering from depression when he wrote the Harry Potter books. But through grit and patience with herself, she was able to complete the first Harry Potter Manuscript and, stay motivated to continue even when feeling down. Thanks to her drive and imagination, the world has Harry Potter !

9. Bono – University of Pennsylvania, 2004

In case you don’t know him, Bono is the lead singer of the famous band U2. Of course, being the rock star he is, he leads his speech by saying, “My name is Bono, and I am a rock star.”

In his speech, he urges graduates to carefully consider their big idea, in saying:

What are you willing to spend your moral capital, your intellectual capital, your cash, (and) your sweat equity in pursuing outside of the walls of the University of Pennsylvania? The world is more malleable than you think, and it’s waiting for you to hammer it into shape. Bono

Being a rock star, I thought Bono would talk about the perils of fame, the road to stardom or something to that effect. But instead, he talked about big ideas and changing the world.

10. Amy Poehler – Harvard University, 2011

Life is like a heist that requires good drivers, an explosives expert, a hot girl who doubles as a master of disguise, and this is a hard and fast rule. If the Rock shows up, they’re on to you . Amy Poehler

During her commencement speech at Harvard University in 2011, Amy Poehler expressed her surprise at the invitation to do so. She delivered a speech with jokes, advice, and insight as she looked out at the graduates.

She told them to head out into the world with love, light, joy, and laughter. Finishing off her speech in true Amy Poehler fashion, she also says, “please don’t forget to tip your waitresses.”

11. Meryl Streep – Barnard College, 2010

This is your time, and it feels normal to you, but really there is no normal. There’s only change, and resistance to it and then more change . Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep is an actress most famous for Sophie’s Choice , The Devil Wears Prada , and Mamma Mia . She was asked to deliver the commencement speech to Barnard College in 2010. Her speech was dripping with extreme personality, honesty, and bluntness.

Streep shared her own personal stories and emphasized the importance of empathy. The audience was all women, so the speech was directed at them, but she shared many graduation messages that applied to everyone.

12. Kerry Washington – George Washington University, 2013

You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that writes the story you were meant to tell . Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is an actress, producer, and director. In 2018, she was named the eighth highest-paid television actress and has won several awards, including the President’s Award.

In her commencement speech at George Washington University in 2013, she urged graduates to go beyond their comfort zones and live their own stories.

How to Create Your Own Inspirational Graduation Speech

Do you need to write your own inspirational speech or curate the perfect graduation message? Here are a few tips on how to do just that, so you can inspire others like the commencement speeches above.

Start With a Quote

Start with a relevant quote. This sets the overall tone of your speech and grabs your audience’s attention. A good example of this is a quote by David Brinkley, “A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.”

Provide Scenarios

Now that you have drawn in the audience, present a what-if scenario to encourage the audience to continue following your thought process.

You can also provide a scenario encouraging the audience to put themselves directly into it. Suggest that they imagine doing something and ask what they would do if it doesn’t go as planned.

If you are giving a graduation message, ask where they see themselves years down the road or what they picture success as. You can then offer advice and insight based on your own experience.

Ask Questions

You should also ask questions, whether they are literal or rhetorical. When you present a question to someone, the person intuitively answers it, keeping them engaged with what you have to say.

Pause for Silence

When giving an inspirational speech, it also helps to pause for a few seconds after important points. This pause allows the audience to react to what you have to say and settle down before you continue with your next statement. The pause is also a good way to draw attention to what you want to say.

What Makes an Inspirational Graduation Speech?

The best graduation speech should have a very uplifting message that leads with education and wisdom. The graduation speech should focus on the graduates’ achievements and accomplishments. It should highlight the sacrifices that may have been made.

When writing a graduation or inspirational speech, ensure a strong theme or message is conveyed to keep your audience’s focus and attention.

Do you remember the speaker on your graduation day? What pearls of wisdom did he or she share?

Related Reading : Don’t forget what you worked so hard on in school! Check out our 150 Education Quotes for Teachers and Students , too. These gems are good for any graduation card when offering congratulations.

Natalie Seale

3 thoughts on “Inspirational Graduation Speeches”

Am really inspired by these brief messages,indeed education has no boundary; therefore, I say to you,” education is immeasurable, regardless of what disciplines or background we find ourselves.

These are very inspiring. My favorite is from J.K. Rowling. Thanks for sharing

Actually Very Inspiring ……thanks for sharing

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

30 Famous and Short Inspirational Speeches (5 minutes or less)

• December 13, 2023

This post is all about the best short inspirational speeches.

If you are in need of a quick boost of inspiration and motivation, you will find that in this post. I am one of those people who loves to get motivated. That sounds weird, right?

Well, a lot of people these days tend to give motivation a hard time because they don’t believe that it has lasting effects. In other words, they believe that what’s most important is your own self-discipline, because that’s what you have to rely on when motivation isn’t there.

And while I do agree with that sentiment in general, I will never pass up a great motivational podcast or YouTube video! 😀 There’s just something about them that even if they might not have lasting effects, they do truly help pump me up in the moment to get work done. And that’s usually what matters to me the most when I am looking for them in the first place.

So, here are the very best short motivational speeches so you can get that quick fix of motivation that you’re looking for, and ultimately move closer to your goals and dreams.

Short Inspirational Speeches

Believe in yourself speeches.

If you lack confidence or you are doubting yourself, these short motivational speeches will help you to believe in yourself again.

1. Rocky’s Inspirational Speech to His Son | ROCKY BALBOA

In less than 5 minutes, you’ll watch Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) explain to his son that if he wants to have the life he desires, he needs to believe in himself. He needs to stop listening to the people that tell him who he is, and instead go be his own person, and stop looking for someone to blame when things aren’t working out for him because ultimately it’s on HIM. This is one of the greatest inspirational speeches of all time.

2. Find Your Purpose | David Goggins – Motivational Speech

David Goggins is truly incredible. A former Navy SEAL, he has broken records and ran more races than you’d imagine. But the one thing that really stands out about him is his mindset.

Listen to this video if you want to be great. He tells you exactly what you need to do to get there.

Also, if you’ve never read David Goggins’ book “Can’t Hurt Me” , I highly recommend it. He talks about his rough upbringing, and how he was able to essentially become an entirely new person to become a Navy SEAL.

3. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF – Motivational Video (ft. Jaret Grossman & Eric Thomas)

This video is all about how important it is to have the proper belief system. If you truly believe that you are one of the best, you will start acting that you are one of the best, and eventually you may just be one of the best.

4. DON’T LET YOUR DREAMS DIE – Motivational Speech

This YouTube short by Mel Robbins is so good, I had to share it. A light bulb went on in my head when I first watched this. If there is something that is always on your mind, don’t let it haunt you forever because you never put yourself out there to try it. Go and DO!

Motivational Speeches About Not Giving Up

The following short motivational speeches are all about not giving up on your dreams. If you are losing hope, these short motivational speeches will inspire you to keep going.

5. Brené Brown It’s Not The Critic Who Counts

This speech will give you chills, and it is packed with great lessons about life. Brené Brown is a researcher who went viral for a Ted Talk, and here she talks about how to overcome critics and to keep believing in yourself no matter what. If you are worried about what people think of you, you NEED to watch this.

6. Amazing Motivational Speech by Denzel Washington 

This is another video that gave me chills. The main theme of this famous speech is “ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship”. Stay consistent even when it’s hard. Easy task after easy task won’t get you to where you want to be.

7. Steve Harvey – Inspirational Speech | Motivational Short Video | Incredible You

This short motivational speech by Steve Harvey is short but impactful. If you are someone who stepped out of your comfort zone to pursue something really difficult, and you’re thinking about giving up, this speech may just prevent you from doing so.

8. Ed Mylett on The Power of One More

Ed Mylett shares the story of how his father stayed sober until his dying day, and how Ed himself uses that same philosophy to never give up. Personal stories like these are always the most inspiring.

By the way, if you REALLY want to push yourself and become the best, read Ed Mylett’s most recent book on this same topic, “The Power Of One More” .

Motivational Speeches If You’re Feeling Behind

Are you feeling behind in life? If so, let’s change that. Watch these videos to be reminded that you are on your own unique path. You have no competition other than your past self. These short motivational videos will help you believe that.

9. Before You Feel Pressure – WATCH THIS | by Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty talks to a school class about how there’s no one “perfect” life timeline to follow, and that we are all on our own clock. 

10. Kevin Hart Motivational Speech

If you’ve made mistakes in your life (haven’t we all) this is a great story from Kevin Hart (famous comedian and actor) that will remind you of the power of making mistakes and pushing through hard times.

11. Oprah Winfrey | 5 Minutes For The NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

In this video, Oprah talks about the importance of really knowing who you are and what you want in your life. She talks about surrounding yourself with great people, and how to have enormous success. “Let excellence be your brand.”

Listen To These If You Need Perspective

Sometimes in life, we get so caught up in the day to day that we forget what truly matters – the people we love. If you are having trouble with something in life, give these videos a listen, because they just might help you realize what is really important.

12. Arnold Schwarzenegger – Organize Your Day | 1 MINUTE MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO

Are you the kind of person who always complains that you don’t have enough time to do something? If so, you’re not alone. We are all busy humans, running around doing a million things. But if you aren’t prioritizing what you know you should be doing, listen to this video.

13. How to Judge Your Life Using 3 Simple Questions | Brendon Burchard Speech| Goalcast

Have you ever heard of Mortality Motivation? It’s essentially what it sounds like… being motivated by the impending reality of your death. It sounds a little morbid, but it’s actually quite beautiful and it can be really beneficial if you harness it for good.

In this video by motivational speaker Brendon Burchard, he shares how a car accident when he was 19 gave him mortality motivation and changed everything for him.

14. FALL, SUFFER AND LEARN | MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH BY OPRAH WINFREY

This speech by Oprah was given to Harvard graduates, and it’s a unique speech because she talks about failing, even after the major success of her television show for over 20 years.

It’s refreshing to hear that even the most successful people fail. What really matters, though, is what you do with your failure. Do you learn from it and move on? Or do you give up?

15. YOU VS YOU – Best Motivational Video

This is a pretty intense video about competition. If your #1 competition is someone else, you need to change your perspective. Your only competition is YOU. The only thing preventing you from moving forward is you.

16. The Speech That Brought This Entire School To Tears

This is a speech about a man who never really paid much attention to his mother, until she passed away. It’s an emotional reminder to cherish the time you have with your loved ones, because you never know if the next time you see them will be the last time.

In my opinion, this speaker embodies many qualities of the best motivational speakers because he really knows how to capture the audience’s attention and pull on their heart strings.

17. 5 Minutes to Start Your Day Right! – MORNING MOTIVATION

This motivational speech is by a Navy SEAL who will remind you to start each day with a task completed, respect everyone, take risks, step up during tough times, and never give up. If you do these things, the next generation, and the generations that follow, will live better lives than we live today.

18. The Real You – Jim Carrey

This video is one of the best motivational speech examples because it reminds you of something so important: sometimes we can be so focused on earning more money, gaining fame, and becoming admired that we lose ourselves or we lose sight of what’s really important to us in the process.

Jim Carrey talks about how he is a great example of that. He got all of the money, fame, and admiration, and admits that that wasn’t really who he was. Sometimes it’s nice to be reminded that money and fame, or even getting to the top of the corporate ladder, while nice, aren’t going to be the thing that brings you fulfillment when it’s all said and done.

19. Ed Mylett Motivational Speech

I posted another motivational video by Ed Mylett above, but if you don’t know much about him, prepare to have your world rocked. He’s probably my absolute favorite motivational speaker because he is successful and he works hard, but he’s also (seemingly) a kind, family guy who’s been through a few things.

In this video, he talks about being “the one” that changed his family tree. Take a listen because I’m sure it’ll get you thinking on whether or not you can be “the one” in YOUR family.

P.S. If you love personal growth content, you should check out Ed Mylett’s podcast . I listen to it every week and it is one of my favorites.

20. If You Feel LOST, LAZY & UNMOTIVATED In Life, WATCH THIS! | Tony Robbins Motivation

If you are someone who is constantly blaming others or your circumstances for your unhappiness, you need to listen to this video by Tony Robbins . Bad things happen to us all, it’s up to you to focus on what you can control.

Great Inspirational Speeches About Hard Work

How hard do you think you work? Could you be doing more? If there’s a little voice inside of your heart that knows you could be doing more and better, these motivational videos about the value of hard work will help you push yourself.

And a side note: your chances of having good luck increase the harder and longer you work.

21. You’re Not Tired, You’re Just Weak – David Goggins Motivation

If you’re feeling lazy or like you don’t want to do something, watch this video til 2:25 . It will give you the push you need to put your head down and do the work. It’ll remind you to keep pursuing your goals and to keep challenging yourself. Key takeaway: push yourself beyond your perceived limits.

22. Hard Work & Patience – A Gary Vaynerchuk Original Film

If you want to be motivated to work hard, listen to Gary Vaynerchuk. Gary Vaynerchuk is a creative genius known for his marketing tactics. This famous motivational speech is all about playing “the long game”, as in, working for a long time and having patience instead of working hard for a short period of time and expecting to win quickly.

23. OBSESSION – Best Motivational Speech

This is one of my favorite short motivational speeches because it makes me feel a little more normal for being “weird”. I’m the kind of person who chooses to work on the weekends instead of hanging out with people. Crazy, right? But it’s because I’m working toward a dream of mine and it’s something that’s really important to me. The most important thing to remember: it’s okay to devote yourself to something. It’s the only way to get what you want in life.

24. WORK LIKE HELL – Best Motivational Video

This is a series of motivational speeches about doing a little bit more and outworking your competition. I’m not going to lie – I’m up late writing this post and listening to this very video is what’s motivating me to keep going.

25. The video EVERY woman should watch!

Whether or not you’re a Rachel Hollis fan may be up for debate (and that’s okay!) but I happen to think she’s a great motivational speaker. This entire speech will inspire you to work hard and take massive action – today.

26. NEVER SURRENDER – Powerful Motivational Speech (by Kobe Bryant)

This one minute video by the late Kobe Bryant is one of the most famous short speeches. I read a book recently by his former personal trainer and I learned that Kobe really outworked everyone. He talks about a quote in this video that really stuck with him, and I think it’s great advice if you’re the kind of person who needs motivation to keep working hard.

Motivational Speeches About Working Smart

Have you ever heard the saying “work smarter, not harder”? That saying is all about ensuring that the work you are doing is actually efficient. Are you getting to where you want to go with all of the work that you are putting in? Are you getting closer to your goals and your dreams? Or are you sprinting like a hamster on a wheel and just running in circles?

Here are great videos on the importance of working hard but also working intentionally.

27. SET SYSTEMS RATHER THAN GOALS – Motivational Speech – James Clear

A goal gives you a sense of direction, but if you don’t spell out precisely how you are going to get to a goal, it is useless. You must develop systems. Listen to this James Clear video to gain valuable life lessons.

By the way, James Clear is an author who wrote perhaps my favorite book of all time: “Atomic Habits” . It’s life-changing if you haven’t read it yet.

28. Matthew McConaughey | 5 Minutes for the NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

This is one of the best motivational speeches of all time about how to live a great life for YOU. It’s filled with little pieces of wisdom that’ll really get you thinking about how you live your life and in what direction you want to go.

29. Visualization is the key – Bob Proctor

Do you believe in the Law of Attraction? If not, I have to say I’m surprised! I’ve experienced it in my own life more than once, and it is incredibly powerful. Here’s a great video that sums up the power of visualization, and if you want to learn more about the Law of Attraction or manifestation in general, read this post .

This video shows the true power of words, thoughts, and feelings that you have.

30. How to Stay Motivated – Carla Harris

Here is a YouTube short with very practical advice from Carla Harris on HOW to stay motivated. It’s all about having a vision!

This post was all about short inspirational speeches. Which one was your favorite?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

Feeling Stupid? Here Are 50+ Funny, Inspiring Quotes

100 Funny Work Affirmations For A Positive Day

120 Powerful Buddhist Quotes That’ll Change Your Life

About Taylor

A few years after graduating college, Taylor made it her mission to become debt free. After paying off all $60k of debt, she began to blog about what she's really passionate about: personal development. Nowadays, Taylor blogs about the topics of Mindset, Money, Health, and Career for women.

"It's Per$onal" is a super popular and anonymous blog series about the personal lives and finances of women all over the world. Check it out!

If you like this post, you might like these, too!

My Little Sister Got Engaged Before Me: Here’s How I’m Navigating This

4 Letter Words That Are Inspirational & Positive