7 Timeless Jane Austen Quotes That Will Change Your Perspective on Life

1. Friendship

One of the most famous Jane Austen love quotes that also speaks to the power of connection is, “Friendship is certainly the finest balm for the pangs of disappointed love.” This quote is a perfect example of the timelessness of Austen’s works. Just like in the early nineteenth century, friends today are there for you when you have had your heart broken. They help pull you through the bad times so you can start smiling again, which is why everyone needs a solid support system. For more about her life, visit the Jane Austen's House Museum.

2. Improvement

There are times when it seems like nothing will go right, and you are stuck in a cycle of bad luck. However, Jane Austen was right when she asserted, “If things are going untowardly one month, they are sure to mend the next.” One of the marvelous facts about life is that things change. If you are having a bad month, keep in mind it will eventually improve. This perspective is a recurring theme in many inspiring female authors' works.

3. Wealth

While you can count on things changing in your life, some truths seem to hold across generations. Unfortunately, one of these is that wealth is unequally divided. Austen declared, “One half of the world cannot understand the pleasures of the other.” This is just as true today as it was in the eighteenth century. You can read more of her observations on society in her complete works at Project Gutenberg.

4. Style

Style is something people have been concerned with for centuries. Each person has their own unique flair, and that is exactly how it should be. Jane Austen agreed with this when she stated, “One man’s style must not be the rule of another’s.” Your personal style is what makes you special, so never feel pressured to follow the crowd. Classic literature often explores these themes of individuality.

5. Imagination

Jane Austen declared, “What wild imaginations are formed where dear self is concerned! How sure to be mistaken!” This statement is poignant and accurate. Have you ever found yourself overthinking what others might be saying about you? The truth is that people are rarely thinking about you as much as you think they are. When you stop overthinking, you gain a lot of mental freedom, allowing for more satisfaction in your daily life.

6 Satisfaction

Think about the last time you enjoyed a decadent piece of chocolate cake. You were likely enjoying every bite rather than worrying about the indulgence. This aligns perfectly with Austen’s affirmation: “Nobody minds having what is too good for them.” We should all allow ourselves to enjoy the satisfying treats life offers without guilt.

7. Effortless Fashion

Jane Austen declared, “Dress is at all times a frivolous distinction, and excessive solicitude about it often destroys its own aim.” I love fashion, but I’m careful not to be too fussy because that’s when your clothes begin to wear you. Aim for a look that feels effortless, which often comes from not over-analyzing every detail of your outfit. For more scholarly insights into her life and fashion of the era, check out The Jane Austen Society of North America.

Jane Austen was an astute observer of human nature, which is evident in her many sayings. Interestingly, they are just as relevant today as they were 200 years ago. It seems human nature doesn’t change much! Which quote from Austen is your favorite?