Take Note: 8 Powerful Quotes by Michelle Obama to Guide You Everyday

 by Shonette Reed


The first African-American First Lady of the United States of America, Michelle Obama, has taken on the role of one of the top female role models of the 21st century. She is an advocate for poverty awareness, higher education and healthy living.

The lawyer and writer has made various speeches during her tenure as First Lady, including her recent powerful and tactful speech on race at Tuskegee University’s commencement. She is one worth hearing a word or two from every day.

In celebration of Michelle’s influence and time in the White House as a First Lady breaking barriers, here’s a list of quotes to get you moving throughout each day.

On Success:

“One of the lessons I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals.”

“We learned about gratitude and humility - that so many had a hand in our success, from the teachers who inspired us to the janitors who kept our school clean… and we were taught to value everyone’s contribution and treat everyone with respect.”

On Frustration:

"You might have to ruffle a few feathers and folks might not always like what you have to say. And there will be times when you’ll get frustrated or discouraged. But whenever I start to feel that way, I like to take a step back and remind myself of all the progress I’ve seen in my short lifetime."

On Relationships:

“Do not bring people in your life who weigh you down, and trust your instincts. Good relationships feel good. They feel right. They don’t hurt. They’re not painful. That’s not just with somebody you want to marry, but it’s with the friends you choose. It’s with the people you surround yourself with.”

On Motherhood:

“My most important title is still 'mom-in-chief.' My daughters are still the heart of my heart and the center of my world.”

On Life:

“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 a life of its own.”

“I am an example of what is possible when girls from the very beginning of their lives are loved and nurtured by people around them. I was surrounded by extraordinary women in my life who taught me about quiet strength and dignity.”

On Aging:

“I have never felt more confident in myself, more clear on who I am as a woman. But I am constantly thinking about my own health, I want to be this really fly 80-90-year old.”

Photo: Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

Shonette Reed is regular contributor for Coloures and For Harriet from Los Angeles, Calif. With plans to break into the fashion industry as a fashion reporter, she runs her own style blog. Her aim is to highlight the important contributions of women of color in the fashion industry as well as give women of color more exposure within the leading magazines in fashion. You can follow her on twitter @ShonetteReed