Logo - Feel The Words

Being Quotes

On identity, openness and staying true to yourself.

This set of quotes explores what it means to simply be: holding onto a child's spontaneity, embracing honesty that feels inappropriate in creative work, or aging with flexibility instead of resistance. For more on self-belief, see our Able quotes.

'Sanctus' was done on speculation. I had no agent or publisher. I was being sensible, I suppose, by writing a standalone novel. I figured if that one didn't work, no one would be interested in reading a sequel.

Quotes by Simon Toyne

Being able to write an idea down succinctly doesn't make that idea any better than one which rambles on a bit. It just comes to the point sooner.

Quotes by Simon Travaglia

The Elephantine papyri - written as some of the books of the Bible are being written - is true social and legal documentation, and to historians overwhelmingly powerful and moving, even when ostensibly about trivial things.

Quotes by Simon Schama

If someone feels they're being maliciously treated, then they should sue for libel. And if someone is malicious, if they are reckless, they will have no defence in law at all.

Quotes by Simon Singh

That man is a religious being, is universally conceded, for it has been seen to be universally true.

Quotes by Simon Greenleaf

I certainly think, obviously, rhythm is a huge part of being an actor. It just is unconscious, to a degree, but particularly in comedy, rhythm is pretty essential, and there's probably something more physiological going on.

Quotes by Simon Helberg

Being an accompanist is very selfless in many ways because you're really just trying to elevate the singer and help them shine, ultimately.

Quotes by Simon Helberg

The French have the reputation of being arrogant. I don't think it's arrogance but a certain authenticity.

Quotes by Simon Baker

I'm not into being all 'film-y' and going to the premieres and parties. I tend to feel like the embarrassing uncle at a wedding.

Quotes by Simon Beaufoy

Being rich would be disastrous for me as a writer. I have always needed to write to pay the bills.

Quotes by Simon Beaufoy

I'm no longer interested in being in big commercial films.

Quotes by Sienna Miller

I've realised that when I don't play people who are complex I get very, very bored, and then lazy, and end up being rubbish.

Quotes by Sienna Miller

Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.

Quotes by Sigmund Freud

The thing I love about being on stage is I can do whatever I want.

Quotes by Sigrid

I love shifting between being super cute and aggressive. It's funny.

Quotes by Sigrid

My favourite thing about being in nature is that I feel so small and kind of insignificant.

Quotes by Sigrid

But presidents matter. That's one of the biggest lessons I learned being in the White House.

Quotes by Sidney Blumenthal

I never had an occasion to question color, therefore, I only saw myself as what I was... a human being.

Quotes by Sidney Poitier

On the surface, being a musician can look pretty glamorous. But so much work goes into it.

Quotes by Sid Sriram

The inner core of my being is Carnatic music.

Quotes by Sid Sriram

Frequently Asked Questions

What perspectives on "being" show up in these quotes?
The quotes touch on being from a particular place ("Being from Louisiana and a big outdoorsman"), being childlike as a performer, being inappropriate as part of the craft of acting, and being flexible and open as part of aging well.
Is there a quote here about acting and creativity?
Yes, two: "As an actor, you always want to reach back to being a child and having the spontaneity and the imagination of a child," and "There's so much we can't express in our day-to-day interaction with people because it's considered inappropriate. And acting is all about being inappropriate." For more on consistent character traits, see Always.
What does this page say about aging?
"Aging gracefully means being flexible, being open, allowing change, enjoying change and loving yourself" offers a positive take on getting older, tied closely to the idea of "being" open to change.
Is there anything here about personal identity or background?
Yes: "Love the show 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.' Being from Louisiana and a big outdoorsman, I'm a big fan of 'Duck Dynasty' as well" ties personal identity to place and interests. For more quotes centered on personal likes, browse Like.
How does this page relate to the Able quotes page?
"Being" here is about states and qualities of a person - childlike, open, flexible - while Able focuses more on capability and what someone can do. Also check Good for more positive, character-focused quotes.

You may also like our Good quotes on positive character traits and Always quotes on consistency and steadfastness.