What They Say About Women with Character: Words from the "Iron Lady" Margaret Thatcher

In the annals of history, few people inspire as much admiration and controversy as Margaret Thatcher, the Iron Lady of British politics. Her tenure as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990 was marked by bold reforms, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her principles. Thatcher’s legacy goes beyond mere policy; it offers invaluable life lessons.

In an era when politics was all about men, she was a model of strength and resilience, challenging the notion that power was exclusively for men. Thatcher's rise to leadership shattered glass ceilings, inspiring women around the world to ignore limitations and pursue their ambitions relentlessly.

Today we have a selection of the best quotes from Margaret Thatcher.

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1. About our thoughts

Margaret Thatcher was convinced that: "Ninety percent of our worries are about things that will never happen to us."

Anxiety is an invariable part of the human experience, an essential feature of our ability to anticipate and fear the future. We tend to worry excessively about potential dangers and failures, which can lead to unnecessary suffering and prevent us from fully enjoying life. However, often the anxieties that plague us remain unfounded, and 90% of the time they concern events that never happen to us.

2. About people

Margaret Thatcher said: "Politeness is valued more and more today, impudence has no price at all."

Politeness used to be highly valued as a sign of good breeding and character. These days, however, it seems that polite people have come to be perceived as weak or shy. In contrast, impudent people are often perceived as strong, confident, and successful. This is a dangerous misconception that can have devastating consequences for our society. And whoever once said that impudence is the second happiness was probably wrong. After all, impudent behavior alienates people and undermines trust. When someone acts impudently, they demonstrate a lack of respect for others, behave rudely, and are selfish.

Another very wise statement by Margaret Thatcher about people: “Low people take an unshakable pleasure in discussing great people.”

Low people often find a strange pleasure in discussing great people. This can be due to several factors, including envy, jealousy, and feelings of inferiority. When low people see someone who has achieved more than them, they may feel envious and spiteful. This envy can lead them to speak negatively about great people in an attempt to undermine their reputation and make themselves feel better.

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3. About women

A pioneer in a male-dominated field, Thatcher broke stereotypes and paved the way for women in politics. She rejected the idea that gender should determine a person’s capabilities, instead advocating for meritocracy and equality of opportunity. Thatcher’s rise to power serves as an inspiration to women aspiring to leadership positions, demonstrating that strength and resilience are not dependent on gender.

Margaret Thatcher said: "Any woman who can manage a home can understand how to manage a country."

"When a woman shows character, they call her a 'bitch.' When a man shows character, they call him a 'nice guy.'" Margaret Thatcher

In addition, Margaret Thatcher was convinced that a woman should not focus only on home and family, she should have other interests. By the way, Margaret Thatcher herself did not have a chef, she cooked all the dinners for the family herself.

The Iron Lady stated: “The home should be the center, but not the boundary, of a woman’s life.”

Traditionally, the home has been seen as a feminine realm, a place where women were limited to child-rearing and housework. However, as women's roles in society change, so too do their attitudes toward the home.

The home can still be the center of a woman’s life, a place of comfort, safety, and love. It can be a place where women can express themselves, develop their passions, and spend time with their loved ones. However, it is important to recognize that the home should not be the sole defining factor in a woman’s life.

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4. About other people's opinions

Thatcher was no stranger to criticism, yet she remained steadfast in her convictions. She was someone who was not shy about expressing her views, no matter how controversial they might be. Thatcher's ability to withstand criticism while remaining true to her principles illustrates the importance of resilience and self-confidence in the face of criticism.

"You can't understand everyone unless you listen to everyone." Margaret Thatcher

"Never listen to anyone who says anything to you. For even if you could walk on water, you can be sure that someone would say, 'Look, he can't even swim.'" Margaret Thatcher

Even the most remarkable achievements can have flaws if you look hard enough. That’s why we must learn to ignore the noise and instead focus on our own internal compass. Ultimately, the true measure of our success is determined not by the opinions of others, but by our inner satisfaction and sense of purpose.

5. About men

Margaret Thatcher also believed that men tend to be more rational and logical than women. She expressed her admiration for men's ability to focus on tasks and make well-considered decisions. However, she also acknowledged that men can be stubborn and arrogant, and believed it was important for them to be balanced by women.

"All men are weak, and gentlemen are the weakest of all." Margaret Thatcher

"If you want to talk about something, go to a man; if you want to do something, go to a woman." Margaret Thatcher

What do you think about these statements? Which quote did you like the most?