Have you ever felt that quiet yearning for a little spark? That moment when you scroll through your phone, looking for something, *anything*, to shift your mood, brighten your day, or just give you a much-needed mental high-five? Trust me, I’ve been there. More times than I can count. I remember one particularly tough week, feeling overwhelmed by deadlines and the general chaos of life, when a friend sent me a simple, beautifully designed image with a quote that read, "You are stronger than you think." It wasn’t earth-shattering wisdom, but seeing it pop up on my screen, then printing it out and taping it above my desk, was a small act of self-care that made a profound difference. It was a tangible reminder, a silent cheerleader, and it truly shifted my perspective.
That's the magic we're talking about today. The incredible, accessible power of free printable inspirational quotes. This isn't just about pretty words on paper; it's about transforming your environment, nurturing your mindset, and sharing positivity with the people you care about. Whether you're looking to infuse your home with good vibes, motivate your team, encourage your kids, or simply find a moment of peace for yourself, these little gems are a game-changer.
In this comprehensive guide, we're diving deep into the world of free printable inspirational quotes. We'll explore why they're so powerful, where to find the best ones, how to use them creatively, and even how to personalize them to truly resonate with your soul. Get ready to discover how a simple print-out can become a mighty tool for well-being, motivation, and connection.
Table of Contents
- [Embracing Positivity: Everyday Inspiration](#embracing-positivity-everyday-inspiration)
- [Fueling Your Drive: Quotes for Work & Success](#fueling-your-drive-quotes-for-work-success)
- [Heartfelt Connections: Quotes for Love & Relationships](#heartfelt-connections-quotes-for-love-relationships)
- [Mind, Body, Soul: Quotes for Self-Care & Well-being](#mind-body-soul-quotes-for-self-care-well-being)
- [Nurturing Young Minds: Quotes for Kids & Learning](#nurturing-young-minds-quotes-for-kids-learning)
- [Unleashing Creativity: Quotes for Artists & Innovators](#unleashing-creativity-quotes-for-artists-innovators)
- [Rising Strong: Quotes for Resilience & Overcoming Adversity](#rising-strong-quotes-for-resilience-overcoming-adversity)
- [Seasonal Sprinkles: Quotes for Holidays & Special Moments](#seasonal-sprinkles-quotes-for-holidays-special-moments)
- [Aesthetic Appeal: Quotes for Design & Decor](#aesthetic-appeal-quotes-for-design-decor)
- [How to Choose the Best Free Printable Inspirational Quotes for Your Needs](#how-to-choose-the-best-free-printable-inspirational-quotes-for-your-needs)
- [Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Using Free Printables](#common-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-using-free-printables)
- [Advanced Tips for Experts: Customizing & Maximizing Your Printables](#advanced-tips-for-experts-customizing-maximizing-your-printables)
- [Conclusion: Your Journey to Inspired Living Begins Now](#conclusion-your-journey-to-inspired-living-begins-now)
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Embracing Positivity: Everyday Inspiration
Sometimes, all it takes is a gentle nudge to shift our perspective. These free printable inspirational quotes are designed for just that – injecting a dose of optimism into your daily routine. They’re perfect for sticking on your fridge, taping inside your planner, or even slipping into a lunchbox for a surprise smile. Think of them as tiny beacons of joy, ready to brighten any moment.
1. "Believe you can and you're halfway there." – Theodore Roosevelt. This classic is a fantastic daily reminder for anyone starting a new task or feeling a flicker of doubt. I printed this one for my coffee nook, and it's amazing how often I catch myself reading it while waiting for my brew, setting a positive tone for the day.
2. "The best way to predict the future is to create it." – Abraham Lincoln. A powerful call to action for those who feel passive in their lives. This quote is excellent for a vision board or a personal journal, prompting proactive thinking.
3. "Every day may not be good, but there's good in every day." – Alice Morse Earle. This quote offers a comforting perspective during challenging times, encouraging gratitude even amidst difficulties. It's a beautiful quote to have near a window, reminding you to look for the light.
4. "Do more of what makes you happy." – Unknown. Simple, direct, and incredibly effective. This is my personal favorite for a quick pick-me-up and a reminder to prioritize joy. I have this taped inside my craft cabinet, so every time I open it, I get a little nudge to pursue my hobbies.
5. "Spread love everywhere you go." – Mother Teresa. A beautiful sentiment that encourages kindness and compassion in all interactions. Perfect for a entryway mirror or a shared living space.
6. "The sun always shines above the clouds." – Paul F. Davis. A hopeful message reminding us that even during gloomy periods, brighter days are ahead. This one is great for a bedside table, a comforting thought before sleep or upon waking.
7. "Today is a good day to have a good day." – Unknown. A straightforward affirmation to start your morning with intention and optimism. Place it where you'll see it first thing in the morning!
8. "Be the change you wish to see in the world." – Mahatma Gandhi. This quote inspires personal responsibility and action towards making a positive impact. Excellent for community boards or shared office spaces.
9. "Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." – Charles R. Swindoll. A potent reminder about the power of our mindset in navigating life's ups and downs. I once gave this to a friend who was struggling with job rejections; she printed it and kept it in her portfolio, and it genuinely helped her maintain a positive outlook during her search.
10. "You are enough." – Unknown. In a world constantly telling us to be more, do more, this simple phrase is a powerful anchor of self-acceptance and self-love. It’s a quote that resonates deeply and offers a quiet reassurance.
11. "Choose joy." – Unknown. A simple, actionable command that encourages intentional happiness, reminding us that joy is often a choice we can make. This is a wonderfully minimalist quote that fits anywhere.
12. "Small steps every day." – Unknown. For anyone feeling overwhelmed by big goals, this quote offers encouragement to focus on consistent, manageable progress. It's fantastic for a planner or a project board.
Fueling Your Drive: Quotes for Work & Success
Whether you're building a career, launching a side hustle, or simply trying to conquer your daily to-do list, a little motivational push can make all the difference. These free printable inspirational quotes are tailored to ignite your ambition, sharpen your focus, and remind you of your potential, even when the going gets tough.
1. "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." – Steve Jobs. This quote isn't just about passion; it's about finding meaning in your tasks, even the mundane ones. It's a great reminder for any workspace, encouraging a deeper connection to your professional life.
2. "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." – Winston Churchill. A powerful quote for anyone navigating the highs and lows of a career path. This is one I printed for my home office during a particularly challenging project, and it truly kept me going when I felt like giving up.
3. "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower." – Steve Jobs. For the entrepreneurial spirit or anyone looking to make their mark, this quote encourages forward-thinking and creativity. Perfect for brainstorming sessions or a startup's common area.
4. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." – Eleanor Roosevelt. This quote is a beautiful blend of vision and perseverance, reminding us that success often begins with a strong belief in what's possible.
5. "Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going." – Sam Levenson. A humorous yet potent reminder to maintain momentum and persistence. This is a fantastic quote for a desk area, especially during long workdays.
6. "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." – Tim Notke. A classic for a reason, this quote champions diligence and effort over innate ability. It's a great visual for a gym or a study space, pushing you to put in the effort.
7. "If you are not willing to risk the usual, you will have to settle for the ordinary." – Jim Rohn. This quote encourages stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing calculated risks for extraordinary outcomes. Ideal for a whiteboard where new ideas are generated.
8. "The best way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." – Walt Disney. A direct and actionable quote for overcoming procrastination and getting into execution mode. I once gave a colleague this quote when they were overthinking a new initiative, and it helped them simply *start*.
9. "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." – Steve Jobs. A profound statement that links personal satisfaction with professional excellence and purpose.
10. "Focus on being productive instead of busy." – Tim Ferriss. A modern mantra for the digital age, emphasizing efficiency and results over mere activity. This is my go-to quote for my weekly planning session; it helps me prioritize what truly matters.
11. "The road to success is always under construction." – Lily Tomlin. A witty and realistic reminder that progress is ongoing and often messy, encouraging patience and persistence.
12. "Opportunities don't happen, you create them." – Chris Grosser. A powerful affirmation of agency and initiative, pushing you to actively seek and build your path.
Heartfelt Connections: Quotes for Love & Relationships
Relationships, whether with family, friends, or partners, are the bedrock of a fulfilling life. These free printable inspirational quotes celebrate love, empathy, and the joy of connection. They're perfect for decorating shared spaces, creating thoughtful gifts, or simply reminding you to cherish the bonds that matter most.
1. "The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love." – Hubert H. Humphrey. A beautiful quote that highlights the restorative power of genuine connection. Ideal for a living room or a shared space where friends gather.
2. "Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope." – Maya Angelou. A profound statement about the enduring and boundless nature of love. This is a deeply moving quote for a bedroom or a personal sanctuary.
3. "Where there is love, there is life." – Mahatma Gandhi. A simple yet powerful affirmation of love's essential role in human existence. Perfect for a family photo wall or a shared kitchen.
4. "A true friend is one who overlooks your failures and tolerates your success!" – Doug Larson. A lighthearted yet deeply meaningful quote about the unconditional nature of true friendship. I once printed this for my best friend and framed it; it now sits on her desk, a constant reminder of our bond.
5. "You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them." – Desmond Tutu. A comforting and appreciative quote about the unique bond of family. Great for a family room or a dining area.
6. "The most important thing in the world is family and love." – John Wooden. Reinforces the central role of family and affection in life's priorities. This is a sentiment I resonate with deeply; for me, family isn't just blood, but anyone who feels like home.
7. "Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see." – Mark Twain. A timeless reminder of the universal impact of compassion and empathy. Excellent for a classroom or a community center.
8. "The best relationships are the ones you never saw coming." – Unknown. A sweet and relatable quote for unexpected friendships or romantic connections that enrich your life.
9. "To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world." – Bill Wilson. A powerful quote that emphasizes the profound impact each individual can have on another's life. This is a wonderful quote to print and gift to someone special.
10. "We are all connected; to each other, biologically. To the earth, chemically. To the rest of the universe, atomically." – Neil deGrasse Tyson. While not traditionally "love," this quote fosters a sense of unity and shared existence, promoting a broader sense of connection and empathy.
11. "Love grows by giving." – Unknown. A simple yet profound truth about the reciprocal nature of love and generosity. It's a beautiful reminder to constantly nurture your relationships through acts of kindness.
12. "Every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure." – Unknown. A direct and heartfelt expression of appreciation, perfect for a personalized gift or a card for a loved one.
Mind, Body, Soul: Quotes for Self-Care & Well-being
In our fast-paced world, prioritizing self-care isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. These free printable inspirational quotes focus on mental health, mindfulness, inner peace, and the importance of nurturing your own well-being. They serve as gentle reminders to slow down, breathe, and give yourself the compassion you deserve.
1. "Breathe. It's just a bad day, not a bad life." – Unknown. This quote offers immediate comfort and perspective during moments of stress or overwhelm. I have this one on my bathroom mirror; it's a quiet cue to pause and recalibrate before facing the day.
2. "You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." – Buddha. A fundamental truth about self-compassion and the importance of treating oneself with kindness. This is a powerful affirmation for anyone struggling with self-worth.
3. "Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live." – Jim Rohn. A practical yet profound reminder about the importance of physical health as a foundation for overall well-being. Excellent for a home gym or a kitchen.
4. "Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." – Dalai Lama XIV. This quote empowers individuals to actively pursue happiness through their choices and behaviors. It's a great reminder for a daily planner or journal.
5. "The quieter you become, the more you can hear." – Ram Dass. A beautiful quote that encourages mindfulness, introspection, and listening to your inner voice. Perfect for a meditation space or a quiet corner.
6. "Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from a place of abundance, rather than depletion." – Unknown. This quote beautifully articulates why self-care isn't selfish, but essential for sustainable living and giving. I recall a period of burnout where this quote, given to me by a mentor, completely shifted my approach to my own well-being.
7. "Do small things with great love." – Mother Teresa. While often applied to charity, this quote is also perfect for self-care, encouraging us to approach even mundane tasks with intention and kindness towards ourselves.
8. "You are capable of amazing things." – Unknown. A simple yet powerful affirmation to boost confidence and remind yourself of your inherent strength and potential. Great for a mirror or a personal workspace.
9. "Let go of what no longer serves you." – Unknown. A liberating quote that encourages decluttering not just physical space, but also emotional baggage and limiting beliefs. This is incredibly helpful for anyone embarking on a journey of personal growth.
10. "The present moment is the only moment available to us, and it is the door to all moments." – Thich Nhat Hanh. A profound quote on mindfulness, urging us to fully inhabit the present for peace and clarity. This is my go-to for grounding myself when my mind starts racing.
11. "Fall in love with taking care of yourself. Mind. Body. Spirit." – Unknown. A holistic and inspiring call to embrace self-care as a beautiful, ongoing journey.
12. "Your peace is more important than driving yourself crazy trying to understand why something happened the way it did." – Unknown. A powerful reminder to release the need for constant analysis and prioritize inner calm.
Nurturing Young Minds: Quotes for Kids & Learning
Children are sponges, absorbing everything around them. Filling their environment with positive messages can significantly impact their self-esteem, resilience, and love for learning. These free printable inspirational quotes are designed with young minds in mind, using simple language and encouraging themes perfect for bedrooms, playrooms, or classroom walls.
1. "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." – Dr. Seuss. A classic and beloved quote that champions literacy and the endless possibilities that come with learning. Perfect for a reading nook or a classroom library.
2. "You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." – A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh). This heartwarming quote is a wonderful confidence booster for any child facing a new challenge. I printed this for my niece when she started kindergarten, and she taped it to her dresser.
3. "If you can dream it, you can do it." – Walt Disney. A timeless message that inspires imagination and belief in one's potential. Great for a child's bedroom or a creative space.
4. "Mistakes are proof that you are trying." – Unknown. This quote helps normalize failure as a part of the learning process, encouraging resilience and a growth mindset. Essential for any learning environment.
5. "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." – Plato (often attributed to Ian Maclaren). While from a philosopher, its message of empathy is simple enough for children to grasp and practice. Excellent for a family common area or school hallway.
6. "Today is a good day to learn something new." – Unknown. A simple, positive affirmation that encourages curiosity and an open mind towards daily discovery. This is a great quote to put near a whiteboard or a study desk.
7. "A little progress each day adds up to big results." – Unknown. Teaches children the value of consistency and incremental effort, especially for long-term goals like reading a chapter book or mastering a skill. My neighbor used this with her son for his piano practice, and it really helped him stick with it.
8. "You are unique and wonderful." – Unknown. A powerful affirmation of individuality and self-acceptance, crucial for building healthy self-esteem in children.
9. "The best way to learn is to do." – Unknown. Encourages hands-on learning and active engagement, rather than just passive observation. Perfect for a craft area or science corner.
10. "Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." – Maya Angelou. A beautiful and poetic way to teach children about spreading positivity and kindness. This is one of my favorite quotes to share with kids; it teaches empathy in such a lovely way.
11. "Read. Explore. Dream. Discover." – Unknown. A concise and inspiring prompt for young adventurers and learners, encouraging a lifelong love of discovery.
12. "Don't give up!" – Unknown. Sometimes, the simplest messages are the most effective. This direct encouragement is perfect for overcoming frustrations and building perseverance.
Unleashing Creativity: Quotes for Artists & Innovators
Every creative soul, whether an artist, writer, musician, or innovator, experiences moments of doubt, creative block, or the fear of a blank page. These free printable inspirational quotes are designed to spark imagination, encourage experimentation, and remind you that every idea, no matter how small, has the potential to become something extraordinary.
1. "Creativity is intelligence having fun." – Albert Einstein. This quote reframes creativity as an enjoyable and intelligent process, perfect for breaking through mental barriers. Ideal for a studio or a brainstorming room.
2. "The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work." – Émile Zola. A powerful reminder that talent needs discipline and consistent effort to flourish. This is a great quote for a dedicated workspace, pushing for both inspiration and perspiration.
3. "Don't think. Just do." – Unknown. For those prone to overthinking and perfectionism, this quote encourages action and intuition over analysis paralysis. I taped this above my drawing tablet to remind myself to just *start* sketching.
4. "Every artist was first an amateur." – Ralph Waldo Emerson. A comforting quote that normalizes the journey of learning and growth, especially for beginners or those feeling intimidated.
5. "The only way to do great art is to love what you do." – Steve Jobs (adapted). Emphasizes the crucial role of passion and enjoyment in the creative process. This is my subjective opinion, but I truly believe that the best art comes from a place of genuine joy and curiosity.
6. "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." – Pablo Picasso. A poetic affirmation of art's therapeutic and transformative power. Perfect for a gallery wall or a quiet corner where you create.
7. "You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." – Maya Angelou. This quote busts the myth of creative depletion, encouraging continuous creation and experimentation. This quote is a personal favorite for overcoming creative blocks.
8. "The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul." – Dieter F. Uchtdorf. A profound statement that validates the innate human need for creative expression.
9. "Imagination is more important than knowledge." – Albert Einstein. While knowledge is crucial, this quote highlights the primacy of imaginative thinking in innovation and problem-solving. Great for an innovation hub or a design studio.
10. "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." – Arthur Ashe. A practical and empowering quote for overcoming procrastination and resource limitations, encouraging immediate action. I once shared this with a friend who felt she needed expensive equipment to start her photography journey, and it helped her just pick up her phone and shoot.
11. "Creativity takes courage." – Henri Matisse. A concise and powerful reminder that true innovation often requires bravery to step into the unknown.
12. "There is no must in art because art is free." – Wassily Kandinsky. This quote liberates artists from rigid rules, encouraging boundless exploration and personal expression.
Rising Strong: Quotes for Resilience & Overcoming Adversity
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. When faced with challenges, setbacks, or moments of doubt, a powerful message can provide the strength and perspective needed to keep moving forward. These free printable inspirational quotes are dedicated to building resilience, fostering courage, and reminding you of your innate ability to overcome anything.
1. "The wound is the place where the light enters you." – Rumi. A beautiful and profound quote that reframes pain and difficulty as opportunities for growth and illumination. This is a deeply comforting quote for anyone going through a tough time.
2. "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger." – Friedrich Nietzsche. A classic quote on resilience, emphasizing that adversity builds character and strength. Great for a personal space where you reflect and rebuild.
3. "It always seems impossible until it's done." – Nelson Mandela. This quote offers immense encouragement when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, reminding us that perseverance often leads to success. I've often thought of this when embarking on a big, intimidating project.
4. "Fall seven times, stand up eight." – Japanese Proverb. A simple yet powerful mantra for persistence and never giving up, no matter how many setbacks you face. Excellent for a visible spot where you need a regular boost.
5. "The only way out is through." – Robert Frost. A direct and honest reminder that facing difficulties head-on is often the most effective path to resolution. This quote is incredibly grounding when you feel stuck.
6. "You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice." – Bob Marley. This quote highlights the discovery of inner strength in moments of necessity, affirming your inherent power. I recall a difficult personal situation where this quote truly resonated, making me realize capabilities I never knew I had.
7. "Tough times never last, but tough people do." – Robert H. Schuller. A hopeful and empowering message that focuses on enduring strength during temporary hardships. This is a great quote to print and share with someone who's struggling.
8. "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." – Nelson Mandela. This quote redefines courage as facing fear rather than being fearless, making it more achievable and relatable.
9. "Stars can't shine without darkness." – Unknown. A poetic analogy that suggests challenges and difficulties are necessary for growth and for our true brilliance to emerge. This is my go-to quote when I'm feeling overwhelmed by negativity.
10. "When you go through a hard period, when everything seems to oppose you, when you feel that you cannot even stand one hour longer, never give up, because it is the time that the course will turn." – Rumi. A longer, incredibly powerful message of unwavering persistence during the darkest moments.
11. "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved." – Helen Keller. A profound insight into how adversity shapes us.
12. "Every storm runs out of rain." – Maya Angelou. A beautiful and comforting metaphor for hope, reminding us that difficult periods are temporary and will eventually pass.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Quotes for Holidays & Special Moments
Life is punctuated by seasons, holidays, and special occasions, each bringing its own unique energy and meaning. These free printable inspirational quotes offer a wonderful way to celebrate these moments, infuse your decor with festive cheer, or add a thoughtful touch to gifts and greetings throughout the year.
1. "The Earth has music for those who listen." – William Shakespeare (Spring/Nature). A beautiful quote that encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the natural world, perfect for celebrating spring's renewal or any nature-themed decor.
2. "Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air." – Ralph Waldo Emerson (Summer). An invigorating quote that captures the carefree spirit of summer and the joy of embracing the outdoors. Ideal for beach house decor or summer party invitations.
3. "Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." – Albert Camus (Autumn). A poetic and appreciative quote that celebrates the beauty and transformation of the fall season. Perfect for Thanksgiving decor or a cozy autumn display.
4. "Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home." – Edith Sitwell (Winter). A heartwarming quote that encapsulates the cozy and communal spirit of winter. Great for holiday cards or a mantelpiece.
5. "May your days be merry and bright." – Irving Berlin (Christmas/Holidays). A classic and universally loved holiday greeting that spreads cheer and good wishes. This is a must-have for any festive holiday decor.
6. "New year, new beginnings." – Unknown (New Year). A simple yet powerful mantra for fresh starts, goal-setting, and optimism as a new year dawns. Perfect for a vision board at the start of January.
7. "Every day is a gift." – Unknown (General Celebration/Gratitude). While not tied to a specific season, this quote promotes a year-round attitude of gratitude and appreciation for each moment. My subjective opinion is that this quote should be everyone's daily reminder.
8. "Life is a party, dress like it!" – Audrey Hepburn (Celebrations/Joy). A fun and spirited quote perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for celebration and joy.
9. "Gratitude turns what we have into enough." – Melody Beattie (Thanksgiving/Gratitude). A profound quote on the power of gratitude to shift perspective and foster contentment. Excellent for a gratitude journal or a family gathering.
10. "Bloom where you are planted." – Mary Engelbreit (Growth/Adaptation). While applicable year-round, this quote has a beautiful resonance with spring's growth and the idea of making the most of your current situation.
11. "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." – Elf (Movie Quote - Christmas). A playful and joyful quote for holiday lovers, perfect for lighthearted festive decor or gifts.
12. "Happy moments, praise God. Difficult moments, seek God. Quiet moments, worship God. Painful moments, trust God. Every moment, thank God." – Unknown (Spiritual/Seasonal Reflection). This quote offers a comprehensive perspective on finding peace and purpose throughout life's varied seasons and moments.
Aesthetic Appeal: Quotes for Design & Decor
The beauty of free printable inspirational quotes isn't just in their words, but also in their visual presentation. These quotes often come in a myriad of design styles, making them perfect for enhancing your home decor, personalizing gifts, or creating themed displays. This category focuses on quotes that lend themselves beautifully to various aesthetic choices, from minimalist to bohemian, rustic to modern.
1. "Less is more." – Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (Minimalist). A quintessential quote for those who appreciate clean lines