What do you think of when you think of Labor Day? For many Americans, it’s pool parties, barbecues, and beach getaways — the traditional celebrations that come with an extra day off work and the unofficial end of summer before back-to-school season begins. But at its core, the holiday is all about honoring honest work.

In 2022, Labor Day falls on September 5. And while you’re grilling or swimming, take some time out to connect with the real reason for the holiday by reflecting on these Labor Day quotes that speak to the soul of the holiday. Now observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day was created by the labor movement at the end of the 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. At its heart, it’s all about paying tribute to the accomplishments and efforts of this country’s workers.

These poignant Labor Day quotes about work and effort come from famous politicians, philosophers, authors, and more. Choose your favorites for a social media caption, greeting card message, or even just as an opportunity for quiet reflection on the meaning and value of hard work in America.

Looking for more Labor Day inspiration? These barbecue recipe ideas will take your celebration to the next level.

"The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you're willing to work."

“All happiness depends on courage and work.”

"The miracle is not that we do the work, but that we are happy to do it."

“It is only through labor and painful effort, by grim energy and resolute courage, that we move on to better things.”

“It is better to have one person working with you than three people working for you.”

“Hide not your talents, they for use were made. What's a sundial in the shade?”

“You can’t have a million-dollar dream with a minimum-wage worth ethic.”

“Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give your whole heart and soul to it.”

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"Nothing ever comes to one that is worth having except as a result of hard work."

“If people knew how hard I had to work to gain my mastery, it would not seem so wonderful at all.”

"Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work."

“Without ambition, one starts nothing. Without work, one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.”

“We often miss opportunity because it's dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

"A man is not paid for having a head and hands, but for using them."

"Genius is 1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration."

"Take rest. A field that has rested gives a bountiful crop."

“Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there.”

"There is no substitute for hard work."

"All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity."

"Whatever you want to do, if you want to be great at it, you have to love it and be able to make sacrifices for it."

“No one but love can fuel the diligent work that awaits you.”

“No matter how much falls on us, we keep plowing ahead. That's the only way to keep the roads clear.”

“The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work.”

"Nothing will work unless you do."

"Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration. The rest of us just get up and go to work."

"The only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."

"Find something you love to do, and you'll never have to work a day in your life."

“Our labour preserves us from three great evils — weariness, vice, and want.”

“Work hard and be kind and amazing things will happen.”

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”