Quote of the day by novelist Paulo Coelho: ‘The world is changed by your example, not by your…’

Paulo Coelho is a Brazilian novelist and lyricist widely regarded as one of the most influential contemporary writers, best known for his internationally acclaimed novel The Alchemist. Born on August 24, 1947, in Rio de Janeiro, Coelho initially pursued a career in theatre and journalism before gaining recognition as a songwriter in Brazil’s music industry.

His early life was marked by personal struggles, including institutionalisation in a mental health facility during his youth, experiences that later informed his philosophical outlook on life and creativity.

Coelho rose to global prominence with the publication of The Alchemist in 1988, a novel that explores themes of destiny, spirituality, and self-discovery, and has since sold millions of copies worldwide, translated into dozens of languages.


His body of work, which includes titles such as Brida and Eleven Minutes, often blends mysticism with introspective storytelling. With a readership spanning more than 170 countries, Coelho’s writing continues to resonate across cultures, cementing his position as a leading voice in modern literary fiction.

Quote of the day

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.”

Meaning of the quote

The quote by Paulo Coelho emphasizes that real impact comes from actions rather than words. It suggests that people are more influenced by what others do, how they live, behave, and lead, than by what they merely say or believe. In essence, meaningful change is driven by example, not opinion.

Relevance in today’s world

In today’s world, marked by social media debates and constant expression of opinions, Paulo Coelho’s message remains highly relevant. It underscores that tangible actions, such as ethical leadership, social responsibility, and everyday integrity, carry far greater influence than online commentary or rhetoric. Whether in politics, activism, or personal life, lasting change is shaped by what individuals do, not just what they say.