Meredith Grey is perhaps my favorite TV character of all time. I have watched all of Grey's Anatomy multiple times through, so I consider myself an expert on all things Dr. Grey. Sure she may be "dark and twisty," but aren't we all? Shonda Rhimes has created a beautifully wise character, so here are a few nuggets of wisdom from Mer.
1. Never Doubt Yourself
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In the opening monologue of Season 1, Episode 1, Meredith says,
"The game. They say a person either has what it takes to play or they don't. My mother was one of the greats. Me on the other hand. I'm kinda screwed."
Throughout the series, she goes on to be Head of General Surgery. We all face challenges that seem daunting, and, while we may never feel ready to throw ourselves over the hurdles of life, we can do anything we set our minds to.
2. Stay Rational
As a surgeon, Meredith must remain emotionally distant from her patients while still maintaining an ere of charisma and compassion. While we are most likely not facing life or death decisions in our daily lives, we must remember to always step back and think about the consequences of our actions.
3. Find Your "Person"
This one is simple. Meredith has Christina to confide in and count on in thick or thin. Having at least one close friend is extremely important. We all need someone to rant to, cry to or laugh with.
4. Be Independent
While Meredith does have Derek in her life for most of the series, she is never completely dependent on him. When he dies, her life is not over. If Meredith Grey can lose her husband and continue to be a mom of three and a badass surgeon, then I think we can get over our most recent breakups. There is nothing wrong with being confident and single.
5. But Also Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help
One quote that sticks with me is from the closing monologue of Season 10, Episode 8. Meredith explains,
"Eventually we have to face the fact that we’re human and that sometimes, even the mightiest of us, need help."
Asking for help seems scary. There is something about admitting weakness that we find humiliating. However, we cannot do everything by ourselves. It's impossible.
6. Dance It Out
Whenever something good or bad happens, Meredith and Cristina turn to a quick dance party for a solution. Next time you are feeling a million emotions at once, grab your person, turn on some music and dance it out.
7. Life Goes On
Perhaps the most famous Meredith Grey quote from the more recent seasons is,
"The carousel never stops turning."
We can't dwell on the past. We have to keep moving forward because life doesn't slow down.
8. Fight For What You Want
I take back what I wrote in #7. I think the most famous recent Mer quote is
"Pick me. Choose me. Love Me."
Meredith fights for what she wants, whether it be a risky surgery or a long lusted-over romance with Dr. McDreamy. We should all fight for what we want and never stop chasing our dreams. Nothing amazing ever comes from the easy way out, so pick your battles wisely and achieve greatness.
9. Be Vulnerable
Being open is terrifying. However, Meredith shows throughout the series that vulnerability is not the opposite of strength. She must constantly open up and expose herself, and we should try to do the same. No one can keep their guard up 24/7.
10. Be Sad
I'm just going to leave this GIF here because it says everything.
11. Nothing Happens As Planned
She wanted to be a neurosurgeon like Derek, but she turned out to be Head of General Surgery. She wanted to live a perfect life with perfect kids, a perfect husband and a perfect job. However, she is now learning how to balance being a surgeon with being a single mom. We all have our five year or 10 year plans, but we must accept change with open arms. There will always be new opportunities.
12. Be A Badass
In case you haven't been able to tell, Meredith Grey is a badass. She went against all odds to become an amazing, innovative surgeon while raising her children as a single mother after the death of her husband. Never be afraid to be who you are. Follow your dreams. Be a rockstar.
If you are feeling inspired and want to see more Meredith Grey, I highly recommend starting Grey's Anatomy on Netflix before the summer is over. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
