We have all heard the saying that actions speak louder than words. Let these short poems encourage you and remind you of how true this is.
Words may show our plans, but actions show our character.
Updated January 24, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer
These poems encourage us to live in a way that matches what we say, so others can trust our words.
Many people can talk a good talk, but the ones who make a difference are the ones who take action. When our words and our actions agree, others learn to trust us. When they do not, our words lose their meaning.
If you want to encourage someone, guide them, or be a good example, remember this. People watch how we live more than they listen to what we say. So speak with kindness, then back it up with steady steps. Even small actions can leave a strong message.
In words, we clothe our thoughts, deep and true,
But what speaks louder? Deeds that we pursue.
For noble virtues, mere talk shall never do,
Mere promises have no power to imbue.
Actions forge the path where trust converges,
Revealing souls beyond linguistic surges.
In righteousness and grace, let our essence glow,
For actions speak volumes, louder than we know.
In humble plea, I softly speak,
Let actions guide the path we seek.
For words, though well-intentioned true,
Can falter and misunderstandings brew.
But let our deeds create a tale,
Shining light where doubts prevail.
Through gentle actions, let us show,
The way to kindness others may follow.
If duty mark our foot prints,
And honor we live by;
Then if charges made against us.
Conduct proves it a lie.
If through gratitude we are true,
We will help distresses' cry;
Then if charges made against us,
Conduct proves it a lie.
When deeds have evinced a noble heart,
Other tongues cannot deny;
Then if charges made against us,
Conduct proves it a lie.
If the key of harmony we keep with zeal,
And invading malice we defy;
Then if charges made against us,
Conduct proves it a lie.
If we hoist our sail for duty's shore,
And never anchor to the please vanity's eye;
Then if charges made against us,
Conduct proves it a lie.
If we live devout and respect each other,
No lie or charge will break the tie:
Peace and good will toward each other,
Our fate above a lie.
What good are words,
If there is no action.
Action is needed,
For satisfaction.
People can say,
As much as they want.
But unless they take charge
There's no reason to take part.
So next time someone is going on and on,
About something they are going to do,
Challenge them to stop talking,
And make their dreams come true.
And next time you,
Have an incredible idea,
Don't just think about it,
Make it a reality.
Oh, 'tis easy to talk, and for words to float out,
As birds flit along on swift flying wings,
Brave, heroic deeds we can talk all about,
But to talk, and to do, are two different things.
Promises are made, and in firm words spoken,
But question how long will they last?
While one promise is made, two may be broken,
For they are not with meditation o'ercast.
Promises were well, but they're easily made,
Bright hopes for awhile they may strew,
But when fair castles fail, and bright seasons fade,
We see 'twere easier to talk, than to do.
Then cheer not the heart with a promise that's brittle,
For the sake of a sound that is fine,
Better than much, is the sure promised little,
That comes in the opportune time.
T'were better to not build the bright castle at all,
Than build on a promise that must soon slip thro,'
Than to see the phantom structure suddenly fall,
For, 'tis one thing to talk, and another to do.
Of all the time,
I sit here thinking,
I often wonder,
What's out there waiting.
Is my time spent,
Too much thinking?
Maybe I should,
Stop thinking and doing.
It's time for me,
To make my dreams happen.
I've done enough thinking,
It's time to take action.
So here I go to make,
My dreams into goals.
I can't wait to see,
Where my life will now lead.
Today is the day, life changes your way,
You'll get out of bed and smile.
It'll take some work, and lots of perks,
But it will be all worthwhile.
How different you'll be, so happy you'll see,
To see life in a different way.
No more negative ways, only lots of good praise,
From those who will see you today.
This choice is yours, and will only be yours,
It's up to you to commit.
At first, it may seem hard, but soon will be jarred,
And your life will have benefit.
Never look back, to what was of lack,
As life for you has drastically changed.
You now just look forward, and only straightforward,
Take action so your life is arranged.
Words are many and easy to say
But what matters most is what you do today.
We can all talk and talk
But what matters most is what we walk.
Words mean nothing,
Without action they bring
Dreams that don't come true
Because people don't follow through.
So always remember that action
Is the secret to fulfilling your passion.
So, for success in life, talk a little
But with action success will triple.
Why is it that we so easily forget
That the little things of life are
What makes it easy or hard?
A few pleasant words, a warm handclasp,
A cordial letter, are simple things, but
They are mighty in their influence on the lives of those about us,
Adding a ray of hope to many disconsolate hearts,
Giving a bit of courage to disappointed, weary ones,
And helping to make our own lives sweeter at the same time.
Few people realize how much the little attentions of
Everyday life means to their associates in the home,
The church, the business place.
Remember that the little things in life,
Whether good or bad,
Count for more with those who love than we ever know,
And we should be watchful of our actions and our words.
Read poems that remind us character is shown in everyday choices, not big speeches.
Enjoy poems that encourage hope, but also remind us to take steps toward what we want.
Find quotes that inspire you to lead with your actions and set a good example.
A powerful poem about being honest with yourself and living with integrity.
Quotes that remind us words matter, and they should match the life we live.
Short words of wisdom that help guide your choices and your attitude each day.
May these poems remind you that results come from follow through. It is easy to talk about plans, but it is action that builds trust and moves life forward. Choose one small step today and do it. You will be glad you did.
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Say what matters, then do what you said.