Barack Obama

[on Michelle] Like a lot of political spouses, the role was thrust upon her. But I always knew she’d be incredible at it, and put her own unique stamp on the job. That’s because who you see is who she is-the brilliant, funny, generous woman who, for whatever reason, agreed to marry me. I think people gravitate to her because they see themselves in her-a dedicated mom, a good friend, and someone who’s not afraid to poke a little fun at herself from time to time.

I found this national debt, doubled, wrapped in a big bow waiting for me as I stepped into the Oval Office.

If you were going to list the 100 most popular things that I have done as president. Being married to Michelle Obama is number one.

[living at the White House] This isn’t about us. There’s so much history here that no one family can claim this space as their own.

There’s no doubt I’m a better man having spent time with Michelle. I would never say that Michelle’s a better woman, but I will say she’s a little more patient.

It’s pretty clear that if men were having babies we’d have different policies.

When it comes to money, the only skill most people know is to work hard.

I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that is how we grow.

Profitability comes from loyalty, productivity, and having a character base from which to work.

There are no speed limits on the road to success.

Stay confident even when something bad happens. It is just a bump in the road. It will pass.

There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility for changing them.

The more you prospect, the more you prosper.

You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.

A man of ordinary talent will always be ordinary, whether he travels or not; but a man of superior talent will go to pieces if he remains forever in the same place.

Goals enable you to do more for yourself and others, too.

It is more important to know where you are going than to get there quickly.

Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation.

The problem is not the problem; the problem is your attitude about the problem.

You’re a fighter. Look at everything you’ve overcome. Don’t give up now.

Make failure your teacher, not your undertaker.