The Best of Life Metaphors & Similes

By Theresa Ho

April 10, 2015   •   Fact checked by Dumb Little Man

You can look at life in many ways. Below are my favorite life metaphors and similes categorized based on the lesson it evokes. Depending on what’s going on in my life, it often helps to remind me of what life is all about and how I can choose to play a part.

On Attitude

You may not have control over what life throws at you but you do have control of your attitude. Choose wisely.

“Life is like a box of chocolate you never know what you are going to get?” – Forrest Gump

“Life is like a roller coaster it’s full of ups and downs but its your choice to scream or enjoy the ride.” – unknown

“Life is like a camera. Focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out. Take another shot” – Unknown

“Life is like an elevator. There are ups and downs, but in the end, you control which direction it goes.” – unknown

On Creativity

Life is full of possibilities. If you are able to adapt to circumstances, you’ll be able to create opportunities. Your life is your canvas.

“Life is an art. Paint your dreams.” – unknown

“Life is a story. Make yours the Best seller’ – unknown

On Change and Growth

Change is a part of life. As you grow, you may find that things in your life may be out of balance and needs to be examined. Strive to balance your needs with the needs of others. Be patient. Let go of anything that holds you back in budding into the fullest expression and potential of all that you are.

“Life is a little bit like a garden – you have to find time to plant the seeds for beautiful flowers to grow” – Oscar de la Renta

Life is like an elevator: on your way up, sometimes, you have to stop and let some people off. – unknown

On Gratitude

Having an attitude of gratitude will go a long way in helping you appreciate the goodness you have in your life and increase your capacity to enjoy life to the fullest.

“Life is like a book. Each day is a new page. May your book be a best seller with adventures to tell, lessons to learn and tales of good deeds to remember” – unknown.

On Pace

We live in a fast paced world, and are constantly bombarded with demands that takes away our time spent with our loved one and in doing what we enjoy. It’s time to apply the 80/20 rule and learn how to work smarter not harder. Hack away the non-essentials tasks in your life and focus on the key factors that make your life an enjoyable one. For when the moment is gone, it’s gone.

“Life is a Journey, Not a Destination.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson ”

“Life is like a roadtrip. Enjoy each day and don’t carry too much baggage.” – unknown

“Life is not a race. But a journey to savour each step of the way” – unknown

On Trust

You have to trust in something, be it your gut, your intuition, the universe whatever it is you believe in to help keep you moving forward in creating and living your life when the going gets tough.

“Life is a dance, you learn as you go. Sometimes you lead. Don’t worry about what you don’t know.” – unknown

What’s your favorite?

Theresa Ho

Theresa Ho is the Founder of Happy Free Lifestyle. She's a free-spirited, freedom lovin', income diversifying, travel junkie sent to help apprehensive go-getters reclaim their lives and grow into their most authentic self. For more inspiration, follow her on Instagram @happyfreelifestyle and Facebook.

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