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5 Helpful Lessons Shonda Rhimes Taught Us

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Winthrop chapter.

As the entire world knows, Shonda Rhimes is the G.O.A.T. Her shows are awesome, her creative ideas are awesome and she is awesome. But, on top of her awesomeness, she’s taught us some very valuable lessons through her own words and her characters’ words. Check some of them out!

1. NEVER underestimate the power of a woman!

YES, we are TOUGH, SMART and quite frankly, AMAZING. Trust me, we can be independent and get through some seriously tough situations on our own.

2. Don’t let a man (or anyone) get in your way

A lot of women have found themselves settling for a man, and Liv’s “Earn me” is a representation of a woman taking control and making others recognize her worth.

3. You have to work – and work HARD for what you want

Do you think Dr. Bailey was handed the title of Chief of Surgery? Or Olivia Pope woke up one day and was one of the best crisis managers? What about Annalise Keating being such a badass lawyer? Each one of these women worked their butts off to get to where they are and if you want to be the best at something, you have to be willing to work hard and never lose focus.

4. It is best to let go of the things that are constantly bringing you down.

Why dwell on the past when your fabuously bright future is awaiting?

5. Do not be afraid to be yourself!

You are amazing! Never let anyone tell you different. People will love you for who you are! Be courageous, be bold, be yourself!

Either embrace your inner Shonda, or embrace your inner Shonda character. 

Itzel Lara

Winthrop '20

Itzel Lara is a junior Social Studies Education major at Winthrop! She has hopes of becoming a high school teacher, and work her way up to teaching at a university! She has been a staff writer for Her Campus Winthrop for 3 years! One of the many reasons why Itzel loves Her Campus is because of the love that everyone has for one another – Her Campus has been a home away from home for her. She is originally from Los Angeles, California and relocated to South Carolina to continue her education. She is absolutely obsessed with giraffes! She loves exploring new places - especially waterfalls! If she's not binge watching something on Netflix then she's probably napping or hanging out with her dog, Jasper! Follow her on instagram (@ItzelCeleste_)! 
Winthrop University is a small, liberal arts college in Rock Hill, SC.Â