What stood out to us about the entire interview was just how much she’s grown in so many aspects of her life. And that growth shows that despite her celebrity status, she’s human, just like the rest of us millennials, and her growth reflects ours in many ways.

Here are 5 important life lessons we learned from the interview:

How to handle that awkward situation when a man is madly in love but you don’t really feel the same way

Rihanna pretty much implied that although Drake was madly in love with her at some point, she wasn’t really on the same wavelength with him feelings-wise.

You may recall a few years ago, Drake professed his undying love for her on live TV during the MTV Video Music Awards. Speaking on this situation, Rihanna said, “…waiting through that speech was probably the most uncomfortable part. I don’t like too many compliments; I don’t like to be put on blast..”. When asked about her current relationship with Drake, she said, “We don’t have a friendship now, but we’re not enemies either. It is what it is.”

In such situations like these, it can be quite tempting to settle for a guy who is absolutely crazy about you, even though you may not feel the same way. Especially in our culture where getting married is seen as an accomplishment. Family and friends may think you’re nuts for not wanting to settle down with such a guy. But as Rihanna has shown, if the feelings aren’t mutual, it’s time to move on!

We aren’t called to do just one thing in life. Our purpose is multi-faceted

When you were younger, it’s highly likely that your parents and older siblings asked you this question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” In response to this question, you probably may have mentioned just one thing. A ballerina. A lawyer. A journalist. A doctor. etc. In hindsight, we shouldn’t have restricted ourselves into thinking we could only have one career. As Rihanna has shown us, having a multi-facted career path is possible. She’s a singer, actress, a makeup mogul-in-the making, a fashion designer…and then there are rumours that she might be going into the Wine business soon. 

So guys, don’t limit yourselves. Explore your passions and look for smart ways to monetize them.

Body positivity

When Rihanna first gained a couple of pounds and officially joined the “team thick fit” club, the Internet went crazy. Many speculated that she was either pregnant with Drake’s baby, or extremely depressed, as they found it hard to accept her fuller figure. But Rihanna apparently didn’t give a damn. She showed that she was comfortable with her new physique, by continuing to rock daring outfits that even size 2 women would think twice about wearing. Speaking on her body image, she told Chioma, “I mean, I know when I’m having a fat day and when I’ve lost weight. I accept all of the bodies…I’m not built like a Victoria’s Secret girl, and I still feel very beautiful and confident in my lingerie.”

What a great reminder to love the skin you’re in!

The importance of having a healthy work-life balance

Rihanna is a hard worker, but she definitely knows how to step a way from work demands and take a break when it’s necessary. She said, “…even mentally, just to be away from my phone, to be in the moment, that has been key for my growth. Now, when I come to work, I’m all in. Because before you know it, the years will go by. I’m glad I’m taking the time. I’m happy.”

Take nothing for granted

Speaking on her Bajan roots, she said, “I basically grew up in paradise. I mean, people save for their whole lives to go on vacation there, and it’s easy to take that for granted.”

This one really hit home for us. You know, being from Africa and being aware of the continent’s numerous blessings and shortcomings can often leave one with mixed feelings. Especially when it often seems as though it’s shortcomings far outweigh it’s blessings. We should be reminded that there are people who genuinely long to rediscover and connect with their African roots, and be in our position, No matter what challenges we may face, we should always remember that being here is truly a gift.

Photo Credit: VOGUE