Stress has a way of shrinking the world. The mind closes in, the body tightens, and everything feels louder than it should. When life gets heavy, a few simple words can help you breathe again. Encouraging phrases feel even more powerful when they come from different languages. They let you borrow strength from cultures that have found their own way through difficult days.
Below is a clear, simple format you can use to learn and remember uplifting words from around the world. Each entry includes:
- The phrase in the original language
- A plain English meaning
- How to pronounce it
- When to use it
Use these phrases to support yourself, encourage a friend, or keep them close during stressful moments.
1. Japanese: 頑張って (Ganbatte)
Meaning: Do your best. Keep going.
Pronunciation: gan-bah-teh
Use it when: You or someone else needs a nudge to stay strong through pressure or uncertainty.
2. Spanish: Ánimo
Meaning: Take heart. You can do this.
Pronunciation: AH-nee-mo
Use it when: Someone feels discouraged and needs a quick lift of energy or courage.
3. Korean: 화이팅 (Hwaiting)
Meaning: You got this.
Pronunciation: hwa-ee-ting
Use it when: You want to pump yourself up before a challenge or cheer on a friend.
4. French: Courage
Meaning: Stay strong.
Pronunciation: koo-RAHZH
Use it when: Someone is carrying a lot of emotional weight and needs steady support, rather than hype.
5. Arabic: توكل على الله (Tawakkal ‘ala Allah)
Meaning: Trust that it will all work out.
Pronunciation: ta-wak-kal a-la al-lah
Use it when: Your stress arises from uncertainty, and you have to let go of what you cannot control.
6. Swahili: Pole pole
Meaning: Take it easy. (Literally: “slowly, slowly.”)
Pronunciation: po-leh po-leh
Use it when: You are feeling rushed, overwhelmed, or tempted to push too hard.
7. German: Du schaffst das
Meaning: You can do it.
Pronunciation: doo shaffst dass
Use it when: You want a strong, steady message of confidence.
8. Hindi: सब ठीक हो जाएगा (Sab theek ho jayega)
Meaning: Everything will be okay.
Pronunciation: sub theek ho jaa-ye-ga
Use it when: Your anxiety spikes and you need reassurance.
How to Use These Phrases in Everyday Life
Put a few on sticky notes.
Display them on your mirror or desk so you can see them when stress hits. Use them as grounding reminders.
Say them out loud.
Speak them slowly when you need to pause, breathe, or regain focus. The sound and rhythm can be calming on their own.
Share them with others.
A simple message in another language feels warm and thoughtful. Sometimes that’s all someone needs to feel seen.
Repeat your favorites.
A phrase becomes powerful through familiarity. Pick one or two that work for you and let them stick. Over time, they can become anchors you return to whenever life feels heavy.
