27 Top Taken For Granted Quotes (with Explanation)

Life can get busy, and you might forget to appreciate the people and things that truly matter. Taken for granted moments happen when you overlook the everyday blessings and relationships in your life.

These quotes remind you to pause, reflect, and cherish what you have before it’s too late. They help you see the value in the little things and encourage you to show gratitude for the love and support you often take for granted.

Taken For Granted Quotes

“Everyone has experienced that truth: that love, like a running brook, is disregarded, taken for granted; but when the brook freezes over, then people begin to remember how it was when it ran, and they want it to run again.”– Khalil Gibran

This quote beautifully encapsulates the human tendency to overlook the continuous flow of love and support in our lives until it is disrupted.

Gibran’s metaphor of a running brook freezing over illustrates how we often fail to appreciate constant love until it is no longer readily available. When this support ceases, we long for its return, highlighting the importance of valuing and acknowledging love in real time.

Also Read: Sweet 16 Quotes (with Explanation)

“There is no substitute for the comfort supplied by the utterly taken-for-granted relationship.”– Iris Murdoch

Iris Murdoch‘s observation underscores the unique and irreplaceable comfort found in relationships we often take for granted. These relationships, be they familial or long-standing friendships, provide a foundation of security and understanding.

The taken-for-granted nature of these bonds can lead to complacency, reminding us to cherish and actively appreciate the people who form our emotional bedrock.

“All your youth you want to have your greatness taken for granted; when you find it taken for granted, you are unnerved.”– Elizabeth Bowen

Bowen highlights a paradox of human ambition and recognition. In youth, we may crave that our talents and efforts are assumed and acknowledged effortlessly.

However, when this expectation is met and our contributions are taken for granted, it can lead to feelings of discomfort and a lack of fulfillment. This serves as a reminder to seek genuine appreciation and to not let our efforts go unnoticed.

“Like winds and sunsets, wild things were taken for granted until progress began to do away with them.”– Aldo Leopold

Leopold’s quote laments the gradual erosion of natural beauty and wildness due to human progress. This serves as a cautionary note on environmental conservation, urging us to not take nature’s gifts for granted.

Recognizing the value of natural wonders before they are diminished or lost is crucial for preserving the world for future generations.

“Nothing should be taken for granted, even if everybody believes it.”– Yuval Noah Harari

Harari’s quote challenges the assumption of collective beliefs and societal norms. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and questioning even the most widely accepted truths.

By not taking things for granted, we encourage a culture of continual learning and adaptation, fostering a more informed and resilient society.

“I now know that things I always thought I could depend on can crash in an instant. Because of the love that I have been shown, I now know what it means to be ‘beloved.’ I now know that no breath is to be taken for granted.”– Rebecca Wells

Wells’ reflection on the fragility of life and relationships underscores the importance of gratitude.

Her experiences reveal that even the most dependable aspects of life can change suddenly, reinforcing the need to appreciate every moment and the love we receive. This realization fosters a deeper sense of presence and appreciation in daily life.

“Your talent is your art. It is not to be taken for granted.”– Paula Abdul

Abdul’s quote serves as a reminder to value and nurture one’s innate talents. Taking one’s abilities for granted can lead to stagnation and underutilization.

By recognizing and honing our skills, we honor our potential and contribute meaningfully to our fields, ensuring that our gifts are fully realized and appreciated.

“Freedom can never be taken for granted. Each generation must safeguard it and extend it. Your parents and elders sacrificed much so that you should have freedom without suffering what they did. Use this precious right to ensure that the darkness of the past never returns.”– Nelson Mandela

Mandela’s profound statement reminds us that freedom, often taken for granted, is a legacy of sacrifice and struggle. Each generation inherits the responsibility to protect and expand this freedom, ensuring past sufferings are not repeated.

By valuing and defending our freedoms, we honor the sacrifices of those before us and create a more just society for future generations. This quote emphasizes the continuous effort required to maintain and appreciate the liberties we enjoy.

“You never can take for granted that you have a job.”– Benjamin Walker

Walker’s quote addresses the often-overlooked reality of job security. In an ever-changing economy, the assurance of employment cannot be assumed.

Appreciating one’s job and continuously striving to improve and adapt are essential for maintaining professional stability. This perspective encourages gratitude for employment opportunities and a proactive approach to career development, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability in the workforce.

“I will never, ever take for granted scoring a hundred for Australia.”– Michael Clarke

Clarke’s quote reflects the deep appreciation and honor associated with achieving significant milestones. For an athlete, every achievement is a result of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice.

This statement underscores the importance of valuing each success and recognizing the effort behind it. By not taking accomplishments for granted, we cultivate a mindset of gratitude and continual improvement, which is vital for sustained success in any field.

“Being taken for granted is an unpleasant but sincere form of praise. Ironically, the more reliable you are, and the less you complain, the more likely you are to be taken for granted.”– Gretchen Rubin

Rubin’s insight reveals a paradox where reliability and consistency often lead to being overlooked. This quote highlights the need to balance dependability with self-advocacy.

While being reliable is commendable, it’s equally important to ensure one’s efforts are acknowledged and appreciated. This perspective encourages individuals to seek recognition and assert their value, preventing their contributions from becoming invisible and fostering a healthier dynamic in relationships and work environments.

“I now know that things I always thought I could depend on can crash in an instant. Because of the love that I have been shown, I now know what it means to be ‘beloved.’ I now know that no breath is to be taken for granted.”– Rebecca Wells

Wells’ reflection on life’s unpredictability emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment and the love we receive. Her realization that even the most dependable aspects of life can change suddenly reinforces the need to appreciate and express gratitude for our blessings.

This quote encourages a mindful approach to life, where each breath and act of love is valued, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and those around us.

“We have to remind ourselves that what we take for granted now is hard-won.”– Morten Tyldum

This Morten Tyldum quote serves as a poignant reminder that the conveniences and freedoms we enjoy are the results of past struggles and efforts.

Recognizing the hard-won nature of our current privileges fosters a sense of gratitude and responsibility to maintain and build upon these achievements. This perspective encourages us to honor the past by not taking present comforts for granted and by contributing to the continued progress and betterment of society.

“Kindness should never be taken for granted because even the nicest people have their limits.”– Shannon L. Alder

Alder’s quote highlights the value of kindness and the importance of not exploiting it. While kindness is a virtue, it is not inexhaustible. This statement serves as a caution against taking kind individuals for granted, reminding us to appreciate and reciprocate their goodwill.

Recognizing the limits of others’ patience and kindness encourages mutual respect and prevents relationships from becoming one-sided, fostering healthier and more balanced interactions.

“The simple process of focusing on things that are normally taken for granted is a powerful source of creativity.”– Edward de Bono

De Bono’s insight reveals that everyday elements, often overlooked, hold immense creative potential. By shifting our focus to the mundane and appreciating its intricacies, we unlock new perspectives and ideas.

This approach encourages mindfulness and a deeper appreciation of our surroundings, which can spark innovative thinking. The quote serves as a reminder to find inspiration in the ordinary, enhancing both our creative processes and our gratitude for the seemingly insignificant aspects of life.

“You don’t appreciate your health until you get sick.”– Frank Langella

Langella’s quote highlights a common human tendency: taking health for granted. It often takes illness to make us realize the value of good health.

This perspective encourages proactive care and appreciation for our physical well-being. By valuing health before it’s compromised, we can adopt healthier lifestyles and preventive measures, fostering a deeper sense of gratitude and a more mindful approach to personal wellness.

“I have learned that some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet are those who have suffered a traumatic event or loss. I admire them for their strength, but most especially for their life gratitude – a gift often taken for granted by the average person in society.”– Sasha Azevedo

Azevedo’s observation underscores the profound gratitude often found in those who have faced significant adversity. These individuals appreciate life’s small joys more deeply, offering a lesson in resilience and gratitude.

This quote encourages us to cultivate a similar appreciation without needing to experience trauma, fostering a mindset that values everyday blessings and recognizes the strength in gratitude.

“We never know what we’re missing until we don’t have it anymore.”– Diana Palmer

Palmer’s quote poignantly captures the human habit of undervaluing what we possess until it’s lost. This realization often comes too late, prompting regret.

The quote urges us to cherish our current blessings, be they relationships, health, or opportunities. By doing so, we can avoid the sorrow of hindsight and foster a life filled with gratitude and appreciation for the present.

“It is very easy to take for granted the phenomenon that we are each alive, but we must try not to.”– Alex Grey

Grey’s quote emphasizes the miracle of existence itself, a fact often taken for granted. Recognizing the sheer improbability and wonder of life can lead to a more profound appreciation of our experiences.

This awareness encourages us to live more fully, appreciating each moment and the unique opportunity we have to experience the world, fostering a sense of awe and gratitude.

“For me, the opportunity to express myself in this way is something I don’t take for granted.”– Devin Townsend

Townsend’s quote highlights the privilege of self-expression, particularly through creative or artistic means. This perspective encourages us to value and make the most of our abilities and platforms for expression.

By not taking these opportunities for granted, we honor our talents and the freedom to share our voices, contributing to a richer, more diverse cultural landscape.

“Even the smallest victory is never to be taken for granted. Each victory must be applauded.”– Audre Lorde

Lorde’s quote reminds us to celebrate every achievement, no matter how minor it may seem. Each victory represents effort, perseverance, and progress.

By acknowledging and applauding these successes, we cultivate a positive mindset and motivate ourselves for future challenges. This practice fosters self-encouragement and a deeper appreciation for our accomplishments, reinforcing the importance of recognizing and valuing our efforts.

“Life is a precious gift – a gift we often take for granted until it is threatened.”– Lecrae

Lecrae’s quote emphasizes the value of life and the common tendency to overlook its preciousness until faced with adversity. This perspective encourages mindfulness and gratitude for each moment.

Recognizing life as a gift fosters a deeper appreciation and a more meaningful existence. By valuing life in its entirety, we can live more fully and with greater awareness, acknowledging the fragility and beauty of our existence.

“I’m a lucky guy. I don’t take for granted, for one minute, what I do.”– Richie Sambora

Sambora’s quote reflects a profound appreciation for his career and opportunities. By acknowledging his luck and not taking his achievements for granted, he maintains a grateful and humble attitude.

This mindset not only enriches his personal and professional life but also serves as an inspiration to others. It highlights the importance of gratitude in sustaining passion and motivation, ensuring continued success and fulfillment.

“Calling anything foolproof seems to take a lot for granted.”– Evan Esar

Esar’s witty remark points out the dangers of assuming infallibility. Labeling something as foolproof disregards the complexities and uncertainties inherent in any system.

This quote encourages humility and caution, reminding us to be mindful of overconfidence. By acknowledging potential flaws and preparing for unexpected outcomes, we can approach challenges with greater wisdom and adaptability, avoiding complacency and over-reliance on perceived security.

“We take for granted how our mind puts everything together.”– Robert Lanza

Lanza’s quote underscores the incredible capabilities of the human mind, often unnoticed in daily life. The brain’s ability to process and integrate vast amounts of information seamlessly is a remarkable phenomenon.

By appreciating this cognitive prowess, we can cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for our mental faculties. This awareness encourages us to nurture and protect our mental health, recognizing the mind’s essential role in shaping our experiences.

“We never know the worth of water till the well is dry.”– Thomas Fuller

Fuller’s timeless adage highlights the tendency to undervalue essential resources until they become scarce. This perspective urges proactive conservation and appreciation of vital elements like water.

By understanding their importance before facing shortages, we can adopt more sustainable practices and cultivate a deeper respect for natural resources. This approach not only benefits the environment but also ensures the availability of these resources for future generations.

“Kindness should never be taken for granted because even the nicest people have their limits.”– Shannon L. Alder

Alder’s quote stresses the importance of valuing and reciprocating kindness. Even the most generous individuals have boundaries, and taking their goodwill for granted can lead to strained relationships.

This perspective encourages us to appreciate and acknowledge acts of kindness, fostering mutual respect and gratitude. By recognizing and respecting others’ limits, we build stronger, more balanced connections, enhancing the quality of our interpersonal interactions.

“Youth is something I never wanna take for granted. I just want to smile and live life.”– Tyler, the Creator

Tyler’s quote reflects a vibrant appreciation for the fleeting nature of youth. Emphasizing the desire to live fully and joyfully, it encourages a present-focused mindset.

This perspective values the energy and opportunities of youth, urging us to make the most of this phase of life. By not taking youth for granted, we can embrace experiences with enthusiasm and gratitude, creating lasting memories and laying a foundation for a fulfilling future.

Also Read: Sleeping Beauty Quotes (with Explanation)

Final Thoughts

In life, it can be really discouraging to feel unappreciated. Taken For Granted Quotes remind us how important it is to appreciate and recognize the people and moments that matter.

These quotes encourage us to show gratitude, helping us build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Remember, even a small bit of appreciation can make someone feel valued and loved.