Women’s Day 2025: 5 secrets behind Oprah Winfrey's success

American television personality, author, and entrepreneur Oprah Winfrey is one of the most successful personalities in the world. From overcoming hardships in her early life to becoming a media mogul, and philanthropist, Oprah's life journey is an inspiration to everyone. So how did she crack the code to success? “The big secret in life is that there is no secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work,” Oprah Winfrey once famously said. On this Women’s Day, let’s take a look at some of the principles that Oprah Winfrey followed on her route to success.
Don’t let the past define you

Oprah Winfrey had a tough childhood. Raised by a single mother in poverty, she faced numerous hardships, along the way. "I wouldn't take anything for having been raised the way that I was. It is because I was sexually abused, raped, that I have such empathy for people who've experienced that," Winfrey told TODAY earlier. She had no running water in the house. But she was determined to become successful. She didn't let these struggles hold her back but turned them into fuel to move forward. When Oprah landed a job in radio while she was still in high school, she grabbed on to the opportunity and gave her best to it.
Education is power

“Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom," Oprah Winfrey once said. Oprah has always believed in the power of education. She knew that education could give her wings to fly. "School was my happy place. It was where I felt nurtured, understood, and seen. There weren’t a whole bunch of adults I felt were interested in me, but that changed when I met Mrs. Duncan in fourth grade. She was the kind of teacher who stayed late and chose books for me to read,” she said. Constant learning has influenced her to move from a radio presenter to a media mogul.
Compassion

Compassion is what drives her forward. Through her struggles, Oprah Winfrey has learned one thing - Kindness is free. Oprah’s deep empathy for others stems from her own hardships. She understands the struggles of those who feel unheard or unseen. Her compassion has helped her build strong relationships with the audience, and also connect with thousands of people who are in need.


Don't look at change with fear

Oprah Winfrey has never walked away from change, instead, she embraced it. She isn't afraid to try something new. She started her broadcasting journey at a Nashville-area radio station, where she worked for several years before transitioning to a local television station. Well, that was just the beginning of her extraordinary career.
Be yourselves

The key to success is being authentic. The world does not need two Oprah Winfrey. She has been true to her core. What makes Oprah Winfrey stand out is her authenticity. That's how she has carved her own path, guided by her unique voice, experiences, and values. Instead of imitating others, find your voice, and embrace it.
(Pic courtesy: iStock)