September 7, 2026

"To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone."

Reba McEntire
Did you find this inspiring?
Inspirational quote by Reba McEntire

Explanation

Reba McEntire’s quote is a charming way of saying that a good life takes a mix of hope, courage, and humor. The wishbone is your ability to dream, to want something more, to imagine a better job, a healthier relationship, a fresh start. The backbone is what helps you keep going when those dreams get hard, when you have to speak up, start over, or do the uncomfortable thing. And the funny bone? That’s what keeps you from becoming too heavy under the weight of it all. Life will hand us delays, awkward moments, and plans that fall apart. Being able to laugh, even a little, can be its own kind of strength. Success isn’t just achieving the goal, it’s staying hopeful, brave, and human along the way.

About the Author

Reba McEntire (born March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma) grew up on a cattle ranch in a rodeo family, where hard work, music, and humor were part of daily life. Known as the “Queen of Country,” she has sold tens of millions of records, won major Grammy, CMA, and ACM awards, starred in the hit sitcom Reba, and earned a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. She is most remembered for her powerful voice, storytelling songs, and remarkable reinvention across music, television, film, and business. Her quote reflects the blend that has defined her career: big dreams, toughness through setbacks, including the 1991 plane crash that killed members of her band and the wit to keep going with grace.