Just about everyone knows who Marilyn Monroe is. With her killer looks, inspiration to young women, and insightful quotes, it’s hard not to look up to her. Throughout the course of her fascinating life, she accomplished quite a bit. With all of her achievements, it’s not hard to see why we could still learn a thing or two from the famous bombshell.
1. Embrace Your Person
One of the top things we could learn from Monroe is to embrace the form we have. She was never shy about flaunting her figure all while maintaining her class and grace. At a time where the majority of women were cooped up in the house or conservatively dressed, Monroe taught women that it was okay to break the mold.
She also wasn’t afraid to show off her signature curves. In today’s society, a body positive movement has certainly taken the reigns, but times weren’t always so supportive. So, it was great to have a role model embrace who she was without care.
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2. Stand Up for Yourself
We’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase, “If you can’t handle me at my worst, you don’t deserve me at my best.” Did you know that Monroe herself is where the quote stemmed from? Everyone is flawed, makes mistakes, and has minor setbacks in their personalities. But, that doesn’t make you any less worthy of love or respect from others.
Monroe’s full quote is, “I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.” It’s hard not to pick up what she’s putting down.
3. Rock That Look
I mean, does anyone need a reason to rock a red lip? Monroe definitely didn’t and it’s often one of the key characteristics associated with her person. After seeing how well she pulled off the look, it’s no wonder we grabbed some inspiration from her. And hey, it’s not only the lipstick we’re talking about. Rock your look, no matter what it is.
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4. Prove Them Wrong
While Monroe looked perfect, her life was anything but. She struggled with self-confidence, spousal betrayal, and was also a victim of assault. In archives of her diaries, she refused to let the abuse and public criticism stop her from rising to the top or simply living her life. Often seen as merely a pretty blonde rube, Monroe rose to the challenge of proving the public wrong and overcoming her hardships. She was intelligent, an avid reader, and entered into private acting lessons in 1955. She’s now considered one of the most widely appreciated stars, even to this day.
5. Love is Love
Monroe once said that people assumed she was a lesbian. She shrugged it off, though, and believed that there was nothing wrong with a relationship if there was love in it. While she wasn’t the only progressive person of her time, she’s still someone we can respect for being kind-hearted and understanding, even back in the ‘50s.
