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Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty

Martin Luther King, Jr., said more than a few wise things about life. But some of his best quotes can be used to inspire business people and entrepreneurs.

Dr. King achieved success with his goal of equality for all because of his approach. “First, he defined his dream, and then, he created a plan for how his dream could be realized. This same strategy can be applied with great success to businesses,” reports Christian Science Monitor.

Sometimes the reason for that lack of success is a lack of motivation. And while we all know it’s far more important to be disciplined (because you won’t always be motivated), when you need a mental pick-me-up sometimes a quote is just the trick to help you refocus, rework your strategy, and, frankly, get to work. Here are nine from Martin Luther King Jr. to help you in business.

Martin Luther King Jr.and Wyatt Tee Walker

Source: Flip Schulke Archives / Getty

Keep Trying

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

Never give up on your dream. Not to sound cliché, but if at first you don’t succeed…

Birmingham Church Rally

Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty

Power Isn’t Everything

“I am not interested in power for power’s sake, but I’m interested in power that is moral, that is right and that is good.”

What good is it to have power if it is not based in a solid moral standing. Ultimately, it will fall apart.

Martin Luther King Mug Shot

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Bounce Back From Disappointments

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

There will always be disappointments in business. It’s just the nature of business. But if you let every disappointment shut you down emotionally, you might as well close your doors. Instead, learn from your disappointment to get stronger and better service your clients.

MLK In Chicago

Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty

No Pain, No Gain

“There is no gain without struggle.”

If having a business was easy, everyone would do it. To become a success you will have to overcome challenges and obstacles. But in the end it will all be worth it.

Martin Luther King

Source: Reg Lancaster / Getty

Stay True To Yourself

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

As in life, even in business it is important to remain true to yourself–even in troubled times.

M.L. King Seated Talking On Telephone

Source: Bettmann / Getty

Respect Time

“We must use time creatively – and forever realize that time is always hope to do great things.”

Make the most of your time. Set your goals and take action to realize them. If you waste time, disrespect time, most likely you will never achieve your vision.

Shown is Martin Luther King Jr. during a 1967 visit to Minneapolis. Minneapolis Star (now Star Tribune) photo by staff photographer Charles Bjorgen.

Source: Star Tribune via Getty Images / Getty

Be Proud Of Your Work

“No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.”

Never let anyone belittle your work. There is nothing better than an honest’s day work.

10 places linked to Martin Luther King Jr.

Source: Chicago Tribune / Getty

A Leader Leads

“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.”

A leader must be self-assured and confident in her decisions. A leader must make the tough calls without hesitation.

US-MARTIN LUTHER KING-MARCH ON WASHINGTON

Source: – / Getty

Keep Your Dream Alive

“No person has the right to rain on your dreams.”

Stay true your dream just as Dr. King did and you will be amazed at the result.