Europe is a continent known for having a rich and luxurious history. There’s something about French lifestyle and culture – a je ne sais quoi, if you will. It’s quite hard to explain, but something about Parisians, they just seem to do it better. People are inspired by the lifestyle every day, even if they don’t fully understand it. Here are seven tips directly from the French that will help you lead a life filled with joie de vivre. Maybe you can utilize them not only on your Parisian adventure, but in your everyday life.
1. “Everything you want is out there waiting for you to ask. Everything you want also wants you. But you have to take action to get it.” – Jules Renard, 19th-century French Writer
Renard is asking you to be a go-getter. Things will not land in your lap, you must chase your dreams and take them by the horns. Whether it’s a job, a house, or a romantic partner – you must seek it out. Very few things are gifted to you in this life.
2. “I think, therefore, I am” – René Descartes, 17th-century French Philosopher
Although Descartes meant this in a philosophical context of general existence, it can be a great reference point for those struggling with identity. If you think you are successful, you will be successful. If you think you are lovable, you are lovable. The French are all about coming as you are; sometimes all you need is self-belief to be.
3. “You spend half your life waiting for the ones you’ll love and half your life waiting to leave the ones you love.” – Victor Hugo, 19th-century French Writer
This Hugo quote inspires us to live in the moment and be present. While we are constantly wanting to grow up as kids and constantly chasing the next big thing as adults, it is so important to take a minute and pause. Meditate and breathe, and feel the ground on your feet. It’s imperative to acknowledge that wherever you are, you are home.
4. “In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different” – Coco Chanel, 20th-century French Fashion Designer
Dare to be different. In this life, you must always stand out. The Parisians always encourage individuality. Allow yourself to stick out amongst the crowd. While in Paris, don’t be afraid to wear a brighter color or experiment with a shade of lipstick you’d typically stray away from. The bold are always rewarded.
5. “In love, we have to dare everything if we really love” – Alain Delon, 20th-century French Actor
Paris is known as the City of Love because Parisians and the French alike know a thing or two about love. To really love, you have to be willing to give it all up for the ones you love. Love is a gamble, but the odds are on your side when you’re in Paris.
6. “Art must take reality by surprise” – Françoise Sagan, 20th-century French Writer
Paris is home to some of the most beautiful and most prolific artworks in the entire world. While visiting Paris, make sure to be inspired by the artworks as well as by your surroundings. Sagan’s advice suggests that art must have an interesting take or have something new to say. Allow your voice to be heard in your art.
7. “We’ll Always Have Paris” – Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca (1942)
Although Bogart was an American, this famous quote is from the classic and unforgettable film Casablanca. While traipsing through the City of Light, make sure to make memories with your loved ones. That way, no matter what happens, you will always have Paris.
Take all these quotes into consideration while you’re falling in love with Paris. Enjoy your adventures in the arrondissement.
