As part of my commitment to reading a book each month, I recently finished Michelle Obama’s The Light We Carry – Overcoming in Uncertain Times. Here are 9 powerful lessons that resonated with me:
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1. Embrace the “Small Things” That Bring Stability
Michelle Obama talks about the power of small, grounding routines – like knitting. It reminded me that little habits, like journaling, blogging or tending to my plants, can bring comfort in times of chaos.
Have you seen this article I wrote? The Little Things that Make Big Differences.
2. Fear is Inevitable – But It Doesn’t Have to Control You
She emphasizes that fear is normal, but courage is about moving forward despite it. This resonated deeply with me because, let’s be real, fear is often a huge roadblock to growth. Many persons fear the uncertainty of stepping away from stability, going after their goals, failing even. I believe that, the moment we truly get a grip on our fears, is the moment our fears loose their grip on us.
Related Post: How to Comeback from Setbacks.
“Doubt comes from within. Your fearful mind is almost always trying to seize the steering wheel and change your course. It’s whole function is to rehearse catastrophe, scare you out of opportunity, and throw rocks at your dreams. It enjoys having you flooded and doubtful. Because then you’re more likely to stay home on your couch, nice and passive, taking no risks at all.”
Michelle Obama – The Light We Carry
3. Confidence is a Skill – Not a Trait
Michelle didn’t always feel confident in the White House. Her secret? preparation and practice – a reminder that confidence isn’t something we are born with, but rather something we build.
Related Post: Chin Up. Boost Your Confidence Now.
4. Surround Yourself with “Kitchen Table” People
She highlights the importance of having a solid support system – people who lift you up. challenge you, and remind you of your worth.
Frankly, one of my life’s mission is to build and nurture a support system. A small circle of well intentioned people, who’d have my back – as I, theirs.
Who is at your table?
5. Progress Over Perfection
Perfectionism holds us back. Michelle encourages us to focus on small, consistent progress rather than trying to get everything “right” the first time. Similarly, often times we step away from opportunities because we think we do not have “everything together”. That’s perfectionism right there. Everything won’t ALWAYS be together, but this shouldn’t conquer progress.
“In trying to spare yourself the worry and discomfort of taking a risk, you’re potentially costing yourself an opportunity. In clinging only to what you know, you are making your world small. You are robbing yourself of chances to grow.”
Michelle Obama – The Light We Carry
Related Post: How to Find Your Success Zone.
6. Use Your Voice – Even When It Shakes
Michelle reminds us that our voices matter – even when we feel nervous and uncertain.
She shares her own struggles with public speaking—yes, even a former First Lady has moments of doubt! She recalls how, in her early years, she felt out of place in rooms full of powerful people. But over time, she realized that her voice mattered, and so does yours!
Your perspective is valuable. Too often, we hold back in fear of saying the wrong thing. Michelle reminds us that our experiences and insights are worth sharing.
Preparation builds confidence. She didn’t just wake up one day as a phenomenal speaker—it took practice, research, and rehearsals. The more we prepare, the more confident we become.
Speaking up is a muscle. The more you use your voice, the stronger it gets. Whether in a meeting, a classroom, or an online platform, small moments of courage add up over time.
Nervousness doesn’t mean you shouldn’t speak. Even the most experienced speakers still get butterflies. The key is to acknowledge your fear but not let it control you.
7. Kindness is a Super Power
In a world filled with negativity, choosing kindness is an act of strength. Michelle encourages us to lead with empathy—because lifting others up always makes a difference.
8. Self Doubt is Loud, But You Don’t Have to Listen
She speaks candidly about imposter syndrome and how even she sometimes wonders, Am I good enough?
Her advice? Acknowledge the doubt, but keep pushing forward.
Doubt is normal, but it’s not the truth. Just because you feel unsure doesn’t mean you aren’t capable. Your feelings are valid, but they don’t define your worth.
Fear and self-doubt often show up before big opportunities. Michelle reminds us that moments of self-doubt often happen right before something great—whether it’s starting a new job, launching a project, or stepping into a leadership role.
Your past wins are proof you belong. Instead of focusing on what you lack, look at all the times you’ve succeeded before. You’ve overcome challenges before—you can do it again.
Action is the best way to silence doubt. The more you step forward, even while doubting yourself, the quieter that negative voice becomes.
9. Your Light Matters – Share It!
The book’s core message is about finding and sharing your unique light. No matter where you are in life, you have something valuable to offer—so don’t be afraid to shine!
Your story is powerful. We often think our experiences are too small or ordinary to matter. But the truth is, your journey—your struggles and victories—can inspire someone else who is going through the same thing.
You don’t have to change the whole world—just your corner of it. Sometimes, we hold back because we feel like we need to make a massive impact. But change starts in the small moments—mentoring someone, encouraging a friend, sharing knowledge, or simply being kind.
Hiding your gifts serves no one. Too many people dim their light out of fear—fear of judgment, fear of failure, or fear of stepping into the unknown. But when you embrace your strengths and let your true self shine, you empower others to do the same.
The world needs more light. We live in a time where negativity, uncertainty, and self-doubt can feel overwhelming. But when we choose to spread hope, positivity, and encouragement, we become part of the solution.
Final Thoughts
Michelle Obama’s wisdom, personal stories and recollection of historical moments, in The Light We Carry is a must-read for anyone navigating uncertainty, self-doubt, or major life changes.
If you’ve read this book, I’d love to hear some of your ‘stand-out’ lessons! And if not—go grab a copy!
What should I read next? Drop your suggestions in the comments!
