- An earnest encouragement to maintain hope, faith, perseverance, and optimism, particularly when facing challenges, doubts, or setbacks.
Explanation
Origin
- The title and refrain of the extremely popular 1981 power ballad Don't Stop Believin' by the American rock band Journey.
- The song tells stories of ordinary people chasing dreams (streetlight people, living just to find emotion) and its uplifting chorus became an enduring anthem of hope and perseverance.
- Its prominent use in media (e.g., The Sopranos finale, Glee), sports arenas, and karaoke has kept it culturally relevant for decades.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- You got this.
- Stick with it. / Stick it out.
- Don't quit.
- Keep on keepin' on.
More Formal:
- Maintain your conviction. / Retain your belief.
- Persevere.
- Remain optimistic.
Situational Appropriateness
- Generally informal to semi-formal. Very common for personal encouragement among friends, family, teammates, or colleagues.
- Due to its strong pop culture link and earnestness, it might feel slightly cliché or overly sentimental in some contexts, but the positive intention is usually well-received.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The meaning is very straightforward encouragement. The main thing someone might miss is the powerful cultural resonance and anthem-like quality derived specifically from the Journey song, but the core message of hope is clear.
Examples
- (To someone discouraged about finding a job) Keep sending out those resumes! Don't stop believing – the right opportunity is out there.
- (Team captain rallying the team when losing) It's not over yet! Play hard! Don't stop believing!
- (To yourself during a difficult task) Just keep pushing through. Don't stop believing.
Dialogue
Student: This thesis feels impossible. I don't think I can finish it.
Professor: You've already done so much great work. You're closer than you think. Take a short break, then get back to it. Don't stop believing in your ability to complete this.
Student: (Takes a deep breath) Okay. Thanks, Professor.
Social Media Examples
- Motivational post: Facing a tough week? Remember your strength and keep moving forward. Don't stop believing! ✨ #motivation #inspiration #keepgoing
- Comment on a friend's post about challenges: Sending positive vibes your way! You're stronger than you think. Don't stop believing! ❤️
- Sports fan tweet during a close game: Come on team, rally time! We can still win this! Don't Stop Believin'! #TeamSpirit #Believe
Response Patterns
- Gratitude: Thanks, I appreciate that. / Thank you, I needed to hear that.
- Renewed Hope/Determination: You're right. / Okay, I won't give up. / I'll keep trying.
- Acknowledgment: A nod, a smile.
- Sometimes joining in if chanted or sung.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After hearing it: The listener often feels a boost in morale and may express thanks or recommit to their efforts.
- After saying it: The speaker might offer further words of support, specific help, or just a reassuring presence.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's offered as encouragement in response to expressed difficulty or doubt.
Intonation
- Usually delivered with sincerity, warmth, and encouragement. Can be uplifting and slightly anthemic.
- Often with emphasis on Don't, stop, and believing.
- DON'T STOP beLIEVing!
- Sometimes even slightly sung or hummed.
Generation Differences
- Extremely well-known across multiple generations due to the song's enduring popularity since the 1980s, its constant presence in media, and its status as a karaoke staple.
Regional Variations
- Globally recognized, especially popular in North America where Journey originated.