Inspired by Oprah

I have to admit, I've jumped on the Oprah bandwagon.  Ever since the Oprah Winfrey Network started airing in January, I've been a fan and everything that Oprah stands for.  The whole premise for the network is Oprah's mantra:  Living your best life.

My favorite show was Your OWN Show:  Oprah's Search for the Next TV Star.  It was Oprah's search for the next talk show host on her new network.  In the end, both finalists were awarded with their own show of their creative design.  Another favorite show of mine has been Season 25:  Oprah Behind the Scenes.  This backstage glimpse of Oprah and her team of talented producers really shows the viewer what it is like to produce her daily show.  I really understand Oprah's leadership style and that of her staff.  I would work for her in a heartbeat!   And last Sunday when it returned with new episodes, I got retweeted during the #OprahLiveTweet event. 

But I've never heard Oprah open up and share her vulnerability like she did on her episode of Oprah Presents Master Class.  Master Class is a spattering of successful people, their life stories, and, in their own words, what success means to them.  I watched the episodes on Simon Cowell, Lorne Michaels, Condaleeza Rice, and Oprah herself.

I was aware of the hardships that Oprah endured throughout her formative years, but prior to this I had never heard her talk about them.  She shares her life story and the lessons she's learned along the way.  In short, the lessons she shared include:

• Know yourself
• You are worthy
• What to teach, what to learn
• You are the master of your fate
• Prepare for opportunity
• Don't pretend to be what you are not
• We are more than we appear to be

As an aspiring writer, all of this speaks to me.  No matter what goal or ambition you're pursuing right now, I hope it speaks to you as well.

What are your thoughts on Oprah's lessons, Oprah over the years, or the new Oprah Winfrey Network?  Your comments are welcome, have a great day!