Yoda inspires, challenges, encourages and teaches. His wisdom swirls around him like the Force he deftly channels and wields against the Dark Side.

I am not a particularly dedicated fan of Star Wars. But my two sons are—and it amazes me how, 30 years after I first watched this movie when I was in third grade, my now third grade son is just as fascinated by these stories and their universal messages as I was then.

Yoda models the perfect blend of qualities for teachers, parents, mentors, coaches, and those who guide others.

Here are the 12 most insightful quotes of Yoda. Read them, you must.

1. Hard to see, the dark side is.

2. Truly wonderful the mind of a child is.

3. Great warrior, hmm? Wars not make one great.

4. Already know you that which you need.

5. Size matters not.

6. Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.

7. Mind what you have learned. Save you it can.

8. Do or do not. There is no try.

9. Always in motion the future is.

10. Named must your fear be before banish it you can.

11. You will know the good from the bad when you are calm.

12. Much to learn you still have, my old Padawan. This is just the beginning!

Recently, a friend tweeted me the line: “Do. Or Do Not. There is no try.” It might sound a little silly, but it was just what I needed to hear.

If other Yoda sayings inspire you, please share them. And, for those who want to translate their own writing into Yoda-speak, here’s a fun website to visit: The Yoda-Speak Generator.

Becky Gaylord worked as a reporter for more than 15 years in Washington, D.C., Cleveland, and Sydney, before she launched the consulting practice, Gaylord LLC.

Republished with permission, courtesy of 12 Most.

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