Michelle Obama, the former First Lady, recently addressed the circulating rumors about her marriage to former President Barack Obama. She believes the speculation arose due to her decision to assert her independence and decline several high-profile invitations, including President Trump’s inauguration. During her appearance on Sophia Bush’s “Work in Progress” podcast, she expressed her astonishment at the public’s reaction to her choices.
At 61, Michelle Obama clarified that her decision to turn down key invitations was often met with understanding. However, she pointed out that societal pressure on women to avoid disappointing others led some to assume that her marriage was in trouble. She dismissed these rumors, emphasizing her autonomy as a grown woman making decisions for herself.
The former First Lady also discussed the societal expectations that often limit women’s choices. She expressed her frustration at the negative labels attached to women who deviate from societal norms. She underscored the importance of self-reflection and making decisions that align with personal goals and aspirations, rather than societal expectations.
Speculation about the Obamas’ marriage heightened when the former President attended Trump’s inauguration and President Jimmy Carter’s funeral without his wife. However, it was later revealed that Michelle Obama was on an extended vacation in Hawaii during the funeral and had chosen not to attend Trump’s inauguration.
Since leaving the White House, Michelle Obama has taken control of her schedule, especially now that her daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, have moved out. She emphasized the importance of making decisions that are best for her, not just what others expect of her. She described this as an important test of her independence.
The former First Lady also spoke about the guilt that women often operate from, and the need to make “big girl decisions” and fully own them. She stressed the importance of asking herself hard questions about who she wants to be and what she wants to do each day. She also expressed her desire to continue working on projects and advocating for girls’ education.