With grace, poise, and a reluctance to be thrust into the public eye, Michelle Obama stepped into the role of First Lady in January of 2009 and quickly became a bastion of compassion, hope and inspiration. In devoting the past eight years to championing healthy living and girls’ education, as well as advocating on behalf of military families, Michelle has used her role to galvanise global leaders and enact change worldwide. Following the First Lady’s departure from the White House, we took time to reflect on some of Michelle’s most memorable public remarks — words that can continue to guide women throughout the globe as we enter 2017.
1“You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” — during a 2011 visit to South Africa
2“When someone is cruel or acts like a bully, you don’t stoop to their level. No, our motto is, when they go low, we go high.” — at the 2016 Democratic National Convention
3“When you’ve worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you. You reach back and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed.” — at the 2016 Democratic National Convention
4“The difference between a broken community and a thriving one is the presence of women who are valued” — at the 2009 State Department Women of Courage Awards
5“Failure is an important part of your growth and developing resilience. Don’t be afraid to fail.”— at GLAMOUR’ s 2015 “The Power of an Educated Girl” panel
6“You don’t want to be with a boy who is too stupid to appreciate a smart young lady. There is no boy who is cute enough or interesting enough to stop you from getting your education.” — at GLAMOUR’ s 2015 “The Power of an Educated Girl” panel
7“If you do not take control over your time and your life, other people will gobble it up. If you don’t prioritise yourself, you constantly start falling lower and lower on your list.”— at the 2016 United State Of Women Summit
8“Success is only meaningful–and enjoyable–if it feels like your own.” — at the 2012 Oregon State University commencement
9“Every day, you have the power to choose our better history—by opening your hearts and minds, by speaking up for what you know is right.” — at 2014 Topeka High School commencement
10“Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility. Make decisions based on what should happen, not what shouldn’t.” — at a 2008 campaign stop in Arizona
Taken from GLAMOUR US. Click here to read the original.
Looking for more inspirational quotes? Check out our favourites from the US GLAMOUR Women of the Year Awards these ones from Ellen DeGeneres that prove she’s the best thing ever.
