In a nutshell my philosophy is...

The Independent has a series of articles called "The 5-minute Interview". Often the last question of the interview is about their own personal philosophy. As I collect all things quotable and philosophical I thought I would collect a few of them together after of course starting with my own answer.

Note to 'The Independent', please can you make the five minute interviews a blog or rss feed.

In a nutshell my philosophy is...

Zephyrist , Blogger and poet

Always look on the bright side of life, you can waste a lot of time being miserable or finding someone to blame. Take ownership for your own life and do the best you can.

Ross Halfin, Rock photographer

The stupid neither forgives nor forgets. The naive forgive and forget. the wise forgives but doesn't forget.

Andrew Lancel, Actor

To quote Rod McKuen: "It doesn't matter who you love or how you love, but that you love."

Darren Campbell, Athlete

Be happy, try to make time for people.

Jose Carreras, Tenor

In Spain we say: "Do good and don't look to whom you do good."

Phillip Glenister, Actor

If at first you don't succeed try again, keep trying, then if you don't succeed after five years give up and realise it's not for you - whatever that may be.

Nathalie Mendoza, Actor

Be simple, graceful, compassionate and encourage joy in others.

Jeremy Hardy, Comedian

Don't kill anybody. I've been quite good since I got out but I have to see my probation officer tomorrow.

Michael Mansfield, QC Barrister

Be actively positive for the benefit of other people and inspire others to do the same, ie, don't let the buggers get you down.

Kathy Lette, Author

Never wait to be rescued by some knight in shining armani. A woman must learn to stand on her own stilettos.

Sally Gunnell, Athlete

Enjoy whatever you do, whether it's work or social. Life is too short so enjoy it as much as you can.

Julia Sawalha, Actor

To keep everything in the moment.

John Thomson, Actor / Comedian

Live life on life's terms no matter what shite is thrown at you.

Rachel Yankey, Footballer

You can't plan everything.

Tess Daly, Presenter

We're here for a good time, not a long time.

Daniel Mulloy, Director

Concentrate on the moment and enjoy it.

Sean Bean, Actor

Listen to people and treat people as you find them. There's an inherent goodness in most people. Don't pre-judge people - that was me mam's advice anyway.

Lisa Snowdon, Model and TV Presenter

Living in the moment and just loving life and if you can give people compliments along the way it makes you feel better!

Dominic Cooper, Actor

Be content with what you have, if it isn't meant to happen, you'll get over it.

Melinda Messenger, TV Presenter and model

Find one thing in every day to make you smile, even if you're having the day from hell.

Jools Holland, Musician and TV Presenter

Love.

Lenny Henry, Comedian

Everyday you wake up breathing and not foaming at the mouth is a good day.