Queen Elizabeth II has held the throne for an impressive 66 years – making her the longest-reigning British monarch of all time. And she has faced many trials and tribulations since her Coronation in 1953.
It couldn’t be clearer that she takes her responsibilities as a monarch seriously. She has also shown the ability to adapt to changing times over the decades, and we believe she speaks more openly about her thoughts and feelings than she used to.
From her official royal engagements to her annual Christmas messages to her less formal revelations, we look back on some of the most memorable quotes from Queen Elizabeth II over the years.
On having a presence
“I have to be seen to be believed.” – Queen Elizabeth II
We love this cheeky quip from Her Majesty – which is possibly a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact she is small in stature, despite her commanding presence.
We recently learned that the Queen always opts for brightly coloured outfits for public appearances, so that she can be easily spotted in the crowd.
On navigating tough times
“When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead, they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future.” – Queen Elizabeth II
We can always count on Queen Elizabeth II to give us words of wisdom when they’re called for. These words proves she always knows just what to say — even during the tough times.
On leadership
“I know of no single formula for success. But over the years, I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal and are often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm, and their inspiration to work together.” – Queen Elizabeth II
A good leader shows humility in their strength and knows how to bring out the best in others – and doesn’t The Queen know it.
On her husband, Prince Philip
“He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.” – Queen Elizabeth II
We love what Queen Elizabeth II has to say about her husband. She may have a reputation for being formal, but there’s no hiding her feelings when it comes to her husband of almost 71 years, Prince Philip. They have lived more of their lives together than they have apart. Now that shows teamwork.
On the importance of reflection
“We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so many distractions, it is easy to forget to pause and take stock.” – Queen Elizabeth II
In the Queen’s 2013 Christmas message, she served a reminder to us all that it’s important to take time to think before we act. It’s easy to forget this in the frenetic pace the world moves at today.
On family
“Like all the best families, we have our share of eccentricities, of impetuous and wayward youngsters, and of family disagreements.” – Queen Elizabeth II
There’s no denying that Queen Elizabeth II loves being a great-grandmother, grandmother, and mother. That said, we love the fact that she is so upfront about the fact that at the end of the day, they’re only human.
By Women’s World and Now To Love
