21 Motivational Quotes by Chetan Bhagat, Indian author and columnist

 

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Introduction

Chetan Bhagat is one of India’s most influential writers, motivational speakers, and columnists whose words have inspired millions. Best known for his bestselling novels, he has also carved a niche as a life coach, often encouraging youth to dream big and work hard for success. His motivational quotes resonate with students, professionals, and entrepreneurs alike because they are simple, relatable, and rooted in real-life experiences. Beyond writing fiction, Chetan Bhagat uses his voice to inspire people to believe in themselves and to chase opportunities with courage and sincerity.

Early Life and Education

Chetan Bhagat was born on 22 April 1974 in New Delhi into a middle-class Punjabi family. His father was an army officer, while his mother worked as a scientist with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. Growing up in a disciplined yet academically inclined environment shaped his outlook towards life and hard work.

He studied at Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, where his interest in storytelling and literature began. Later, he pursued Mechanical Engineering at IIT Delhi, one of India’s most prestigious institutions. However, Bhagat’s passion for writing stayed alive even amidst the rigors of engineering. To complement his technical education with management skills, he went on to complete his MBA in Finance from IIM Ahmedabad, further broadening his perspectives.

Career

Chetan Bhagat’s professional journey began in investment banking, where he worked in top companies like Goldman Sachs. Despite a successful career in finance, his heart was always inclined towards writing. In 2004, he released his debut novel “Five Point Someone”, which instantly struck a chord with India’s youth and became a bestseller.

Since then, he has written multiple popular novels like One Night @ the Call Center, 2 States, Revolution 2020, Half Girlfriend, and The Girl in Room 105, many of which have been adapted into Bollywood films.

Apart from fiction, Chetan Bhagat is a motivational speaker and columnist, addressing topics like education, youth empowerment, career choices, and personal growth. His motivational quotes inspire people to face challenges with courage, balance career with passion, and focus on self-improvement. Today, Bhagat is celebrated not only as an author but also as a voice that motivates India’s younger generation to dream beyond limits.

1. Forgiving doesn’t make the person who hurt you feel better, it makes you feel better.

2. Sometimes life is not about what u want to do but what u ought to do.

3. There are two ways of spreading light – to be candle, or the mirror that reflects it.

4. Don’t quit. It will happen one day.

5. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Life is too short, enjoy yourself to the fullest.

6. Be so busy improving yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

7. Don’t be serious, be sincere.

8. I’m human, I’m not perfect. Although, I make mistakes all the time.

9. Sometimes, when nobody is by your side, you have to become your own cheering squad.

10. Don’t just have career or academic goals. Set goals to give you a balanced, successful life.

11. Achievement is not the end goal; happiness is.

12. Life is not to be taken too seriously. Enjoy the little things along the way.

13. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra effort.

14. In the end, it’s not what you have, but who you become that matters most.

15. Keep your goals high, but keep your humility higher.

16. Do what you love, and success will follow sooner or later.

17. Success is not about making money. It’s about making a difference.

18. Focus on progress, not perfection.

19. Courage doesn’t mean you don’t get afraid. Courage means you don’t let fear stop you.

20. In the race of life, don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

21. Dream big, start small, but act now.