Michelle Obama served as the First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017 and the first African-American woman to serve in this position. She’s one of the most well-liked First Ladies of modern times, but that’s just breaking the surface when it comes to Michelle Obama. It seems like she’s a woman who has it all: a prestigious education, flawless background, solid marriage to one of the world’s preeminent leaders, and a great track record as a mother!

During her time in the White House, Michelle Obama also became known as a consummate hostess and champion of many worthy philanthropic causes, and few in the spotlight can shake off criticism as gracefully as she has.

Want to know how she’s managed to become successful in life and business?
Here are ten rules of success according to Michelle Obama.

Never Miss Out On A Lesson From Others
There are several amazing people from different backgrounds in Michelle Obama’s life that she’s earned from over the years. Take a cue from the people that inspire you on how they conduct their lives and handle success. This is especially true when it comes to their mistakes — learn lessons from example and you won’t have to find out the hard way.

A Happy Face Works Wonders
The First Lady is a positive thinker who strives not to let negative situations affect her for too long. Her positive attitude and penchant for putting on a smile even in tense moments stem partly from her appreciation and thankfulness for what she has in life. Embrace gratitude and you’ll be one big step closer to improving the quality of life we create with those who are near and dear to us.

Your Success Will Be Determined By Your Own Confidence And Fortitude
No one handed Michelle Obama the things she has in life, and she had to work hard to attain her education, build a successful marriage, and raise confident children. She came from a solid family, but her beginnings were humble. Still, she never let lack of material things hold her back and she learned to develop a winning attitude.

Keep A Great Inner Circle
The reason no personal scandals are surrounding the First Lady is that she’s careful with her inner circle. She has friends who embrace and support her, Michelle gives the same effort back, and everyone benefits. But could you imagine how her turn in the White House would’ve been if she carelessly allowed any and everyone into her life? The people who you hang with usually reflect your own values, so choose wisely.

Planning Is Essential
You’ve got to be a superb planner to keep up with the type of busy life that Michelle Obama has, and among her friends, she’s known as the ultimate multi-tasker. She utilizes to-do lists and carefully keeps track of things from day to day and for the long term. She’s so well put together because she knows what to expect, and that comes from paying attention to the fine details of life.

Aspire To Be The Best In What You Do
Choose to be the best at what you do. No shortcuts, complaints and whining. This is because excellence is the most powerful answer you can give to your doubters and haters. It is also the most powerful thing you can do for yourself. The process of striving and pushing yourself to new heights is how you develop your talent. That is how you make yourself smarter, stronger and more able to make a difference for others.

Follow Your Instincts
Being able to wisely judge situations and be proactive can save you a ton of trouble, and that’s one thing that has enabled Michelle Obama to enjoy a relatively drama-free life. She’s always been determined to go after not only what she wanted, but what she felt was right. When she worked as a corporate attorney she knew she wouldn’t find fulfillment in that arena, so she resigned and began to work in public service. Her instincts were correct, and she went on to have a wonderfully satisfying career and life.

Fail Your Way To Success
Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is oftentimes what keeps us back from doing new things. We think we have to be right and perfect and not stumble at all but the only way we succeed and learn in life is by failing. It is not the failure, it is what you do after you fail.

Failure should be seen as a challenge to do more and aim for more. Take some risks and step out of the comfort zone and do not forget, it is not over until it is over.

Live Out Loud
Don’t underestimate yourself. You are a hard worker, you have great instinct and have great power to execute. This is what you should say out loud. Don’t seal your power. Understand that what is in your brain is really useful. Don’t hide it, don’t dime it down and don’t apologize for it. Just put it on the table and let people deal with it. Don’t silent yourself.

Empower Yourself
All believe that something will come if you are willing to work for it. That is the power of hope. It is the power that will help overcome the power of division, anger and fear and doubt that people have placed on you.

Regardless of your political beliefs, it’s hard not to feel inspired by Michelle’s achievements as First Lady… but also as a leader. The Obamas have been an inspiration to many, and the legacy they leave behind is partly owed to Michelle! 😊

"No matter how high you get or how smart you are, or how successful, life will throw you things that you're not necessarily prepared for. And if you know how to get yourself through it you will succeed." — Michelle Obama

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