Let’s be honest: Right now, we could use some additional motivation. We’re here to provide.
At The Story Exchange, inspirational, enterprising women are our business and our passion, which is why we have a special place in our hearts for the individuals featured below. On top of being successful founders, these women also worked hard to become some of the most respected athletes, political figureheads, musicians and performers in their respective games.
We’ve gathered up nine inspiring quotes from these seriously thriving, seriously famous role models. In just a few words, they share all that they’ve learned about perseverance, patience, and finding strength — in others, and in yourself.
Read on, before diving into whatever may lie ahead.
Ava DuVernay. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
“If your dream only includes you, it's too small.” – Ava DuVernay
Director, activist and founder DuVernay has often given opportunities to marginalized actors and creators as her own star has risen — while also telling gripping, socially relevant stories and making history. Indeed, she continues to live out these wise words, which she offered at SXSW years ago. It’s inspiring work, as well as a quality that other successful women also embody – for example, the social entrepreneurs featured in our Good on the Ground series. DuVernay would be proud.
Barbara Corcoran. (Credit: Flickr)
“It’s your game; make up your own rules.” – Barbara Corcoran
The real estate entrepreneur, author and “Shark Tank” panelist started up and scaled her self-named business at a time when women were even less likely to be business leaders than they are today. Rather than let that discourage her, Corcoran created her own path. Not having other footsteps to follow in was challenging, but she turned it into an advantage and built a long-lasting career — and served as a role model for others along the way.
Drew Barrymore. (Credit: David Shankbone, Wikimedia Commons)
“In the end, some of your greatest pains become your greatest strengths.” – Drew Barrymore
She’s best known as an actress, having landed feature roles in a wide range of films and TV shows since childhood. She is also the host of her own (hug-filled) talk show. But Barrymore is additionally the head of her own makeup line, Flower Beauty. Following decades of ups and (rather public) downs, Barrymore is now on sure, successful footing. And she’s found that stumbles and mistakes, and everything we learn from them, makes us stronger in the long run.
Jessica Alba. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
“Every five years, I feel like I'm a completely different person.” – Jessica Alba
Alba is perhaps just as well-known for her acting work as she is for the giant, all-natural health and home goods business she founded. The multi-talented creator of The Honest Company shared these candid thoughts on growing and evolving as a person over time — a crucial skill for any would-be business owner, to be sure.
Oprah Winfrey. (Credit: Maryland GovPics, Flickr)
“You can have it all — just not all at once.” – Oprah Winfrey
She’s an inspiration to countless people, women in particular. But the media mogul didn’t get to where she is overnight. After diligently working for decades to build a brand and a reputation for herself, she is now one of the most respected figures in the world. She notes that others can also achieve greatness, as long as they are willing to commit the time — even if it takes years to get to where you’re going.
Serena Williams. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
“Don't let anyone work harder than you do.” – Serena Williams
Her impressive work ethic is one item on a long list of attributes that make Williams someone to look up to. Grueling training regimens, international travel and high-pressure games were once a part of her everyday life. She still performs the intense tasks of raising a daughter and investing in other hard-working women. Keeping up with her schedule remains difficult, but Williams is willing to put in the work to make it all happen. And that’s why she’s the GOAT.
Beyoncé. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
“Your self-worth is determined by you. You don’t have to depend on someone telling you who you are.” – Beyoncé
It’s hard to be the queen if you don’t believe in yourself. That’s why international superstar and record label owner Beyonce encourages others to establish their identities themselves, and to find value from within. And as important as outside input is to entrepreneurs – be it from customers, investors or anyone in between — we can’t help but agree with Queen Bey.
Gisele Bundchen. (Credit: Bob Bekian/ Flickr)
“The more you trust your intuition, the more empowered you become, the stronger you become, and the happier you become.” – Gisele Bündchen
She was never just someone’s wife. Bündchen, a world-renowned model, is one of the most recognizable faces in fashion and beauty. She’s also an entrepreneurial partner at Grendene, a synthetic footwear company that makes a killing selling sandals. And, she has her own lingerie line. All of that, she says, was achieved by believing in herself, and letting that faith embolden her.
Zoe Saldana. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Gage Skidmore, Flickr.com)
“I love aging. Why would I want to be 21 for the rest of my life?” – Zoë Saldaña
We may be biased here, as a staff that collectively views the age of 21 as a cherished memory. But we love these words of wisdom from Saldaña, who is currently in the Oscars race for her supporting role in Spanish crime musical (and awards season darling) “Emilia Pérez.” which remind us to appreciate where we are in our journeys, and to revel in the joy and security that can come with getting older. After all, she started her Latin-American-focused media company, BESE, at age 41. It makes you wonder: What can you accomplish today?
Editor’s Note: This post, updated for 2025, was originally published Jan. 6, 2020.
