There’s truly no one who’s taken over television and pop culture like Oprah Winfrey. Whether you came to know her as a part of your mandatory daily viewing via “The Oprah Winfrey Show” during its illustrious 25-season run, or used her own weight loss journey as a source of inspiration for your own, Winfrey’s impact to society can’t be overstated.
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And as the former queen of daytime television celebrates her 71st birthday, we felt it fitting to take a look at some of her most inspiring quotes and wisest words that have gotten us through tough times, made us laugh, or made us look at life in a new way.
Happy Birthday Oprah, 71 never looked better!
Oprah on Treating People With Respect

“Our goal must be decency and respect for every human we encounter.”- Oprah Winfrey, November 2018
Oprah on Self-Confidence

“You can either waltz boldly onto the stage of life and live the way you know your spirit is nudging you to, or you can sit quietly by the wall, receding into the shadows of fear and self-doubt.”- Oprah Winfrey, September 2014
Oprah on Speaking Your Truth

“What I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have. And I am especially proud and inspired by all the women who have felt strong enough and empowered enough to speak up and share their personal stories.”- Oprah Winfrey, January 2018
Oprah on Cutting Out Toxicity

“Good riddance to decisions that don’t support self-worth.”- Oprah Winfrey, March 2010
Oprah on Putting Your Needs First So You Can Show Up Properly for Others

“Life is reciprocal: The energy you expand always comes back.”- Oprah Winfrey, November 2018
Oprah on Letting Go of Grudges

“Whatever your reason for holding on to resentments, I know this for sure: There is none worth the price you pay in lost time.”- Oprah Winfrey, August 2017
Oprah on Keeping an Open Mind About Life

“The answers keep unfolding as your life expands, if you’re willing to see things for what they are — and what they can be.”- Oprah Winfrey, July 2018
Oprah on How to Conquer Betrayals

“When you know who you are and what you stand for, you stand in wisdom.”- Oprah Winfrey, February 2007
Oprah on the Human Connectivity of Pain

“All pain is the same; we just choose different ways to release it.”- Oprah Winfrey, September 2018
Oprah on Overcoming Indecisiveness

“When you don’t know what to do, do nothing. Get quiet so you can hear the still, small voice — your inner GPS guiding you to true north.”- Oprah Winfrey, August 2021
Oprah on the Importance of Helping Others

“True philanthropy comes from living from the heart of yourself, and giving what you have been given.”- Oprah Winfrey, October 2015
Oprah on Embracing Womanhood

“We have to make the choice — every single day — to exemplify the truth, the respect, and the grace that we wish for this world.”- Oprah Winfrey, April 2019
Oprah on the Higher Power of Spirituality

“It’s the greatest discovery of life: to recognize that you’re more than your body and your mind.”- Oprah Winfrey, May 2008
Oprah on the Importance of Gratitude

“That’s the gift of gratitude: In order to feel it, your ego has to take a backseat.”- Oprah Winfrey, December 2013
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