Laurie Notaro Quotes

Powerful Laurie Notaro for Daily Growth

About Laurie Notaro

Laurie Notaro, born on October 16, 1970, in Phoenix, Arizona, is an American humorist and best-selling author known for her candid, witty, and often humorous accounts of her life experiences. Notaro's writing career began in 2001 with the publication of her first book, "Autobiography of a Fat Bride," which recounted her struggles with self-image and relationships leading up to her wedding day. The book became an instant success, landing on the New York Times Best Seller list. Following this debut, Notaro published a series of memoirs that delved into various aspects of her life, including "The Idiot Girl's Action Adventure Club," "There's a Slight Chance I Might Be Going to Hell," and "We Thought You Would Be Prettier." These books have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated readership, known for their humorous yet insightful exploration of personal growth, relationships, and the absurdities of everyday life. Notaro's writing style is characterized by her raw honesty, sharp wit, and ability to find humor in the most unexpected situations. Her influences include other popular memoirists such as David Sedaris and Augusten Burroughs, as well as the comedic stylings of Monty Python and The Kids in the Hall. In addition to her writing, Notaro has made appearances on various television shows, including "The Late Show with Craig Ferguson" and "Chelsea Lately." She continues to tour and perform stand-up comedy, drawing crowds with her engaging storytelling and unique perspective on life. Today, Laurie Notaro stands as a testament to the power of humor in dealing with life's ups and downs, inspiring readers to find joy even in the most challenging circumstances.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I have decided that people should come with user manuals."

This quote expresses a desire for clear, easy-to-understand instructions about how to interact with others effectively. It suggests that if we had manuals for people, we could better understand each other's behaviors, motivations, and preferences, leading to more harmonious relationships. In essence, it highlights the challenges of navigating social interactions without such guidance, implying a need for improved communication, empathy, and understanding among individuals.


"Today I discovered that money can't buy happiness, but it sure as hell can buy a chair and sitting on a chair makes you happy."

This quote suggests that while material possessions like money may not directly bring happiness, they can provide comfort and convenience, such as the ability to sit on a chair, which in turn contributes to overall well-being and joy. It subtly emphasizes that finding contentment often comes from fulfilling basic needs and improving one's quality of life rather than relying solely on emotions or external sources for happiness.


"Sometimes you're the windshield, and sometimes you're the bug."

This quote suggests that life often presents situations where we are in control (the windshield) and other times where we are on the receiving end of events (the bug). It's a reminder that our role may fluctuate between being proactive or reactive, and encourages us to adapt accordingly, embracing both challenges and moments of serenity with grace.


"Happiness is a warm puppy, a good book, and the knowledge that there will be a nap after lunch."

This quote by Laurie Notaro emphasizes that simple pleasures in life, such as the company of a warm and loving dog, the enjoyment of a good book, and the anticipation of a restful nap, can contribute significantly to happiness. It suggests that happiness is not necessarily found in grand gestures or extravagant experiences but rather in the everyday moments of comfort, companionship, and relaxation we find in our ordinary lives.


"I've learned that if you want to make an omelette, you have to break a few eggs; and if you want to make a soufflé, just give up now and order takeout."

This quote by Laurie Notaro suggests that achieving something worthwhile often requires effort, persistence, or even the acceptance of temporary setbacks. The analogy "breaking a few eggs" to make an omelette implies that one must be willing to face minor difficulties or sacrifices in order to accomplish a goal. Similarly, the advice to "just give up now and order takeout" when attempting to make a soufflé implies that some tasks are complex and may not be worth the effort for those unwilling to invest time, skill, and patience to succeed. Overall, the quote underscores the idea that success requires hard work, perseverance, and an understanding of one's own limitations.


I majored in journalism at Arizona State University, where I began writing the columns I write now, but I cannot, in good conscience, refer to myself as a writer. I'm a columnist, maybe a journalist, I guess I'm an author, but writer... no. That's not up to me to call myself, that's rather lofty. It's for the reader to decide.

- Laurie Notaro

Arizona, Conscience, I Write, Columnist

I'm nicer on tax day than I am when I'm on deadline.

- Laurie Notaro

I Am, Than, Nicer, Deadline

I've had to write a column an hour after I've come back from a funeral. A deadline is a deadline, I mean, that was just what my job was.

- Laurie Notaro

Back, Had, Column, Deadline

I've never really considered doing stand up, but I have done readings/spoken word things fairly often in which I'll just tell a bunch of stories and run off at the mouth. I'm a big tangent person.

- Laurie Notaro

Doing, Big, Considered, Stand Up

If you really believe in what you're doing, work hard, take nothing personally and if something blocks one route, find another. Never give up.

- Laurie Notaro

Work Hard, Doing, Give, Blocks

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