What “Fall Seven Times, Stand Up Eight” Really Means
“Fall seven times, stand up eight” is an ancient and powerful quote. Short, sweet, and encouraging, this saying inspires a sense of strength and resiliency.
Whether you’re going through a tough time, chasing a dream, or just trying to stay positive, this quote reminds you to keep going. It hints at the importance of having hope and determination, no matter the setbacks you might face.
But where did this quote come from, and what exactly does it mean? Let’s take a closer look at the deeper meaning behind this inspiring saying and how it can help you keep pushing forward.
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The Meaning Behind “Fall Seven Times, Stand Up Eight”
At its core, this quote is all about staying strong. It’s not saying life will be perfect or easy, it’s saying you can be stronger than your setbacks. You might fall down (a lot), but as long as you keep standing back up, you’re going to be okay, and in fact, you’ll probably end up winning in the end.
The “seven” and “eight” aren’t necessarily literal, but symbolic. Although some tries take 7 attempts (or more!), the basic idea is that every time life knocks you down, you can indeed rise again, stronger and more determined. It’s the ultimate reminder that bouncing back is what matters most, not the number of times you stumble.
Origins of the Quote: Who Said It First?
You might be surprised to learn that this quote doesn’t come from a famous author or motivational speaker. It’s actually a Japanese proverb!
In Japanese, it’s written as 七転び八起き (Nanakorobi yaoki), which literally translates to “fall down seven times, get up eight.” It’s a traditional saying that reflects a deep cultural belief in perseverance and inner strength, no matter the obstacles.
Over the years, this phrase has made its way into Western culture, showing up in books, motivational speeches, and on cute Pinterest graphics. And it’s no wonder, since it speaks to something we all relate to: the struggle and the comeback.
Why This Quote Still Inspires Us Today
Let’s be real—life gets messy. Goals take time, things don’t always go to plan, and sometimes we even feel hopeless. That’s where this quote comes in as a gentle but powerful reminder: you’re allowed to fall, but you’re also capable of rising. Failure happens; it’s a normal part of life.
There’s something comforting about a quote that reminds us not to expect perfection. Instead, it cheers you on for showing up, trying again, and refusing to quit. It’s about grit, not glam, and that’s what makes it so empowering.
How to Apply “Fall Seven Times, Stand Up Eight” in Real Life
So, how do you actually live by this quote? Start by giving yourself grace when things don’t go perfectly. Falling isn’t failing—it’s learning. It’s growing. It’s being human.
Here are a few easy ways to apply this quote in your daily life:
- Try again. Whether it’s a goal you didn’t hit or a day that went sideways, give yourself permission to start fresh.
- Celebrate your wins and comebacks. For example, did you pick yourself up after a bad mood? Talk yourself out of feeling badly about something you can’t control? Things like that count!
- Be your own cheerleader. Talk to yourself like you would a best friend: with encouragement, kindness, and self-support.
Little by little, each time you get back up, you build confidence and resilience. And that’s what will carry you forward.
Concluding Thoughts
The next time you get frustrated or feel like giving up, think of this quote: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.”
It’s not about never making mistakes, it’s about maintaining inner strength and a resilient mindset when you do. Life will challenge you, but your strength lies in your ability to keep going.
So brush off the dust and rise again. Stand tall, because you’re stronger than you think, and every comeback is proof that you can always find a way to move forward.
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