Some books aim to instruct. Others aim to inspire. What I Know For Sure does both, gently, intentionally, and without pretense. Drawn from Oprah Winfrey’s long-running column in O, The Oprah Magazine, this collection of essays distills years of lived experience into clear, heartfelt reflections on purpose, gratitude, resilience, and presence.
Far from being a step-by-step guide, this book reads like a conversation, one that leaves you a little lighter, a little clearer, and far more grounded in what truly matters.
Here are 10 standout quotes from the book, each carrying a lesson worth remembering:
“I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become.”
A powerful reminder that our thoughts shape our reality. It’s easy to get lost in worry, fear, or self-doubt, but this line calls us back to intentional living. What we feed our minds, we fuel in our lives.
“You are not your circumstances. You are your possibilities.”
This is for anyone who has felt stuck. Oprah challenges the idea that our present situation defines us. Instead, she invites us to focus on who we’re becoming.
“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”
Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good habit, it’s a multiplier. This quote reads like a truth we know deep down but need to practice more consciously.
“Worrying is wasted time. Use the same energy for doing something about whatever worries you.”
Practical and sharp. This line reframes worry as a misuse of imagination and energy, energy that could be redirected toward action.
“True forgiveness is when you can say, ‘Thank you for that experience.”
This is perhaps one of the most challenging, yet freeing ideas in the book. Forgiveness, in Oprah’s view, is not just release, it’s transformation.
“Only make decisions that support your self-image, self-esteem, and self-worth.”
Boundaries, self-respect, and alignment all wrapped into one sentence. It’s a mantra for anyone trying to live with more intentionality.
“Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.”
This quote breathes life into the idea of purpose. It’s not just about finding what you love, but tuning into the energy it gives back.
“When you undervalue what you do, the world will undervalue who you are.”
A wake-up call for people-pleasers and quiet dreamers alike. Confidence, as Oprah writes, isn’t arrogance, it’s clarity.
“The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.”
It sounds simple, even cliché, but in the context of the book, it feels deeply sincere. This quote is an invitation to choose boldness over fear.
“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.”
The final and perhaps most grounding truth in the book. In a world obsessed with hustle and future-planning, this line is a permission slip to just be.
What I Know For Sure is more than a book, it’s a mirror, a pause, a compass. It doesn’t shout for your attention; it quietly earns it. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, chasing purpose, or simply longing for peace, this book meets you where you are, and gently reminds you of who you are.
If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters, start here.
This book is a must-read for anyone craving clarity, calm, and deeper meaning in everyday life.
You can get your copy here.
