Expect trouble as an inevitable part of life and repeat to yourself the most comforting words of all: 'This, too, shall pass.'

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About this quote

Use the line as a practical reset — stop ruminating and take one concrete action that moves you forward. Hard times are temporary, but the habit of avoiding responsibility is what lasts. Trade anxious waiting for deliberate effort: plan, act, learn, and let setbacks shrink under steady work.

When to use it

  • After a job rejection, tell yourself 'This, too, shall pass,' then update your resume and apply to three roles today.
  • When a breakup leaves you stuck, acknowledge the pain, repeat 'This, too, shall pass,' and rebuild one daily routine immediately.
  • Facing a project setback at work? Say the line, list one corrective step, and execute it within 24 hours.
  • Before a high-pressure meeting, breathe, remind yourself 'This, too, shall pass,' and focus on delivering the first 90 seconds well.