Michelle Obama Gives Advice to Girls: “We can never give up. We can’t afford to.”

The New Savvy is a great advocate for learning and women’s education, so imagine our delight and immense support of The Power of an Educated Girl event in New York.

#62MillionGirls Initiative

Moderated by Glamour’s editor-in-chief, Cindi Leive, Michelle Obama gave inspiring advice to thousands of girls. The First Lady of the United States co-panelist includes former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Plan International student activist Nurfahada, and actress/U.N. Messenger of Peace Charlize Theron.

As part of the recently launched Let Girls Learn campaign by the White House, the initiative aims to help 62 million girls worldwide without access to an education.

Michelle Obama’s Advice at The Power of an Educated Girl event

Here are some of The New Savvy’s favourite life lessons by the FLOTUS. There are reminders even to the strongest, smartest of us!

1) You are worthy. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
“I learned that when I was young. I’m worthy. And if I’m worthy, so are you.”

2) Don’t be afraid of claiming your seat on the table.
“Compete with the boys, beat the boys, because you all are capable.”

In both business management and investing, women are more conservative but deliver higher returns over the long run. As the better investor historically, there are many good reasons why you should take control of your investment portfolio. We outlined the differences between women and men’s investing habits to empower you to make use of your strengths better.

3) Invest in yourself.
“You’ll have the opportunity, and you’ll have control of your life to make choices. And you won’t have to listen to your parents, because you’ll have a job and you’ll pay your own bills. You want that freedom. Freedom comes later,” she said. “Now you invest. Now you put up with. Now you be patient. Because if you don’t do it now, then you’ll be living this cramped-up life for the rest of your life.”

Grow your knowledge, read the 6 personal finance books for women we recommend.

4) Failure is inevitable but learn from your mistakes. Have tenacity and persevere on.
“Failure is an important part of your growth and developing resilience. Don’t be afraid to fail.”

Our favourite quote from Michelle Obama? Watch the video below. Trust us, it’s worth it.

“If I had worried about who liked me and who thought I was cute when I was your age, I wouldn’t be married to the president of the United States.”