You don’t have to be a monarch to stand out from the crowd and change the world for the better.On September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain died at the age of 96. Her 70-year reign was the longest in British history. Here are a few things everyone can learn from the woman.
1. Don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd
The Queen has never been in the background. Just remember her wedding dress, strewn with crystals and 10,000 pearls , hundreds of unusual hats or the bright lime-green suit she wore to the wedding of her grandson Harry and Meghan Markle. Elizabeth II was not content with the ordinary – she chose the extraordinary.
Wear something that will not only make people turn their heads, but will also make you feel like you’re in charge.
2. Don’t avoid difficult and dirty work
Of course, Elizabeth II was brought up and educated according to all royal duties and protocols. But she was also a qualified mechanic and knew how to handle any engine. In fact, during World War II, Elizabeth, then an 18-year-old princess, served as a lorry driver and mechanic in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service.
Remember that any hobby or activity you have, no matter how difficult, can pay off, and feel free to try something new. It will take you to new heights.
3. Doing good is important
When you become an agent of positive change, you can improve the lives of your small community or, in the case of the Queen, an entire country. Elizabeth II was patron of more than 600 charities in the UK and Commonwealth countries – from the famous to the obscure, from foundations related to agriculture or health, to societies dealing with children and young people, or sport and recreation.
Take a moment to think about how you can change the world around you. It’s never too late to start helping others.
4. Make time for fun
Being a queen is a big responsibility. But sometimes you can have fun for your own pleasure. Elizabeth II loved spending time in the countryside, walking her beloved corgis and visiting the stables. And once she even allowed herself to ” jump ” from a helicopter in the company of Daniel Craig (in the image of James Bond).
One of Her Majesty’s favourite games was “catching the minister”. The Queen would diligently prepare for her weekly meetings with the Prime Minister in order to surprise him with government news that he had not noticed.
No matter how much work, study or extremely serious things you have, allow yourself to fool around and laugh. At least sometimes.
5. Meet new places and people
Elizabeth II was the most traveled British monarch in history. She visited at least 110 countries and territories. Only after her 50th birthday, the Queen visited 43 countries for the first time. Visiting different places and observing local people, Elizabeth II better understood other cultures and people’s needs and even changed her views on the world.
Don’t be afraid to meet people. They may become your best friends for life.