Oprah Winfrey: 11 of the media mogul’s most empowering quotes

‘Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not,’ says Winfrey

For many students, the implementation of lockdown measures in response to the coronavirus pandemic dashed their hopes of celebrating their graduations in a traditional manner.

In order to boost the spirits of new graduates currently in quarantine at home, Oprah Winfrey is to host a virtual graduation event on Friday 15 May.

Broadcast live on Facebook and Instagram, Winfrey is scheduled to deliver a commencement speech during the event.

If any of the media mogul’s past statements are to go by, it is likely that she will deliver an empowering, uplifting address for the graduates as they look ahead to their futures.

In 2019, Winfrey spoke to graduates at Colorado College about keeping calm ahead of life’s challenges.

“Take a deep breath with me right now and repeat this: Everything is always working out for me. That’s my mantra – make it yours,” she said.

“Everything is always working out for me. Look at how many times you were worried and upset—and now you’re here today. You made it.”

Ahead of the 66-year-old’s commencement speech, The Independent has compiled 11 of her most inspiring quotes from the past, touching upon topics including financial success, self-esteem and the importance of integrity.

1. On the key to financial success

“The reason I’ve been able to be so financially successful is my focus has never, ever for one minute been money.”

2. On the secret recipe to life

“The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work.”

3. On reaching your full potential

“Every time you state what you want or believe, you’re the first to hear it. It’s a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don’t put a ceiling on yourself.”

(Getty Images (Getty Images)

4. On taking a moment to reflect

“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.”

5. On acknowledging failure

“Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.”

6. On knowing your worth

“When you undervalue what you do, the world will undervalue who you are.”

(Getty Images (Getty Images)

7. On doing the right thing

“Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not.”

8. On embracing new challenges

“Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new centre of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.”

9. On knowing who your true friends are

“Everyone wants to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”

(Getty Images (Getty Images)

10. On adopting a new perspective

“So go ahead. Fall down. The world looks different from the ground.”

11. On looking forward to the future

“My philosophy is that not only are you responsible for your life but doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment.”

The 2020 virtual graduation event is due to take place at 11am PST/ 2pm EST/ 7pm BST.