In only a few days, we will wave goodbye to Michelle Obama and her family and usher in a new First Lady. In our tribute to this strong, intelligent woman, here are our favorite quotes from her eight years in the White House. Hopefully, we can all use them to channel our inner Michelle Obama in the New Year.
Michelle speaking at Black Girls Rock 2015
1. “The only limit to the height of your achievements is the reach for your dreams and your willingness to work hard for them.”
It can be discouraging to work every day of the semester and not necessarily see the fantastic results that we had hoped for. Remember that your GPA isn’t a complete indication of your hard work or achievements. Don’t forget your long-term goals and the reasons you work so hard every day.
Giving the 2015 Tuskeegee University Commencement Speech
2. “We can take on these deep-rooted problems, and together — together — we can overcome anything that stands in our way.”
Now, more than ever, you may be feeling the desire to make a change and fight to make your voice heard. Through solidarity and community, you can make this happen. Surround yourself with people who share your passions and work with them to make an impact.
At her 2016 DNC Speech
3. “So there will be times when you feel like folks look right through you, or they just see a fraction of who you really are. The world won’t always see you in those caps and gowns. They won’t know how hard you worked and how much you sacrificed to make it to this day.”
During her speech at Tuskeegee University’s Commencement Ceremony, the First Lady offered this advice to graduates. Even if you aren’t graduating this year, it is still important to keep in mind that even though people may underestimate you, you can always prove them wrong. This year, show them what you are capable of and keep your eyes on the finish line.
Photospread for The Verge
4. “When things get hard, that’s not always a sign that you’re doing something wrong. It’s often a sign that you’re doing something right.”
The most important goals are often the most difficult. When you feel like your hard work may just not be enough, keep in mind the importance of your perseverance and push through. Take pride in yourself and never give up.
Barack Obama hugs Michelle after his 2008 DNC acceptance speech
5. “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 that you choose. It’s with the people you surround yourselves with.”
It can be hard to realize when a person in your inner circle is no longer good for you. If there is a person who you feel no longer supports you, it’s time to release their negativity from your life. This may mean ending your friendship with them, or just simply creating a little distance. Either way, you need to do what feels best for you.
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