Pearls from The Dame!

Dame Zaha Hadid, the legendary architect, shattered the glass ceiling in a predominantly male profession and left an indelible mark on contemporary architecture. Known for her revolutionary designs, Hadid’s approach to life and architecture puts all the lights on.

1. Embrace Your Uniqueness Quote: “I don’t think you can teach architecture. You can only inspire people.” Insight: In life, every individual brings a unique essence. Rather than trying to mold someone or ourselves based on societal norms, we should celebrate and cultivate these distinct qualities.
2. Challenge the Status Quo Quote: “There are 360 degrees, so why stick to one?” Insight: Life isn’t one-dimensional. Just as Hadid didn’t confine her designs to traditional shapes, we shouldn’t confine our thoughts and actions to what’s conventional. Exploring different perspectives enriches our experiences.
3. Value of Persistence Quote: “If you want an easy life, don’t be an architect.” Insight: Pursuing one’s passion often comes with challenges. Like Hadid in her architectural journey, confronting and persisting through difficulties can lead to profound personal growth and fulfillment.
4. Embrace Change Quote: “People think that the most appropriate building is a rectangle… but the world is not a rectangle.” Insight: Just as the world isn’t limited to rectangles, life isn’t confined to our expectations or routines. Being adaptable and open to the unexpected enriches our life journey.
5. Power of Vision Quote: “I started out trying to create buildings that would sparkle like isolated jewels; now I want them to connect, to form a new kind of landscape.” Insight: Life is an evolving journey. Our perspectives and goals change as we grow, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and the pursuit of broader horizons.
6. Stand Up for Your Beliefs Quote: “Yes, I’m a feminist, because I see all women as smart, gifted, and tough.” Insight: Standing firm in our convictions, even when faced with opposition, helps carve out authentic lives and can instigate positive change in society.
7. Seek Inspiration Everywhere Quote: “Architecture is really about well-being… when you are in a place, a space that looks at the same time grand, but not monumental, you feel good.” Insight: Life’s inspiration doesn’t just come from grand moments but also from subtle, everyday experiences. Taking time to appreciate them can significantly impact our well-being.
8. Collaboration is Crucial Quote: “I don’t design nice buildings; I don’t want people to like my buildings.” Insight: Life is a collective experience. By seeking diverse perspectives and embracing collaboration, we can achieve outcomes greater than the sum of individual efforts.
9. Stay True to Yourself Quote: “I have always been independent. I have tried to be true to myself.” Insight: Authenticity is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Trusting our instincts and staying true to our identity leads to genuine happiness and self-assuredness.

Through her wisdom, we are reminded of the importance of authenticity, adaptability, and the never-ending quest for growth and understanding.

Thank you and may you RIP.