George Michael may no longer be with us, but in 2026, his presence feels stronger than ever. The late pop icon is enjoying a powerful cultural revival, with his music dominating streaming platforms, social media feeds and nostalgia playlists across the world. From TikTok edits set to Careless Whisper to the annual return of Last Christmas every holiday season, George Michael’s songs continue to connect deeply with audiences of all ages. For many younger listeners, his work feels like a fresh discovery rather than a reminder of the past.
Amid this renewed spotlight, one of George Michael’s most personal quotes has been widely shared again. In an old Facebook post, the singer wrote about the importance of being kind to oneself.
"Be good to yourself because nobody else has the power to make you happy"
What's the meaning of this quote?
At its core, the quote speaks about personal responsibility and emotional independence. George Michael’s words suggest that happiness is not something that can be handed over by success, relationships or public approval. Instead, it comes from how a person treats themselves, through self-respect, compassion and honest self-care. By encouraging people to “be good to yourself,” he was pointing to the idea that inner peace begins within, not in the expectations or actions of others.
The message feels especially relevant today. Nowadays, many people link happiness to likes on social media, validation or external achievements. George Michael’s words cut through that noise. They remind people that emotional well-being cannot depend on others alone. Whether in careers, relationships or personal growth, the quote encourages setting boundaries, choosing self-worth and understanding that happiness is a personal journey.
More about George Michael
Beyond the quote, George Michael’s life and career continue to inspire conversations around music, identity and authenticity. Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in London in 1963, he first rose to fame as part of the pop duo Wham! before becoming one of the biggest solo artists of the 1980s and 1990s.
Over his career, he sold more than 100 million records worldwide and earned multiple Grammy and American Music Awards. His catalogue includes timeless hits such as Faith, Father Figure, Freedom! ’90, and duets with legends like Aretha Franklin and Elton John.
George Michael passed away peacefully on Christmas Day in 2016 at the age of 53, according to BBC report. Yet, nearly a decade later, his voice, music and words continue to resonate.
Amid this renewed spotlight, one of George Michael’s most personal quotes has been widely shared again. In an old Facebook post, the singer wrote about the importance of being kind to oneself.
"Be good to yourself because nobody else has the power to make you happy"
What's the meaning of this quote?
At its core, the quote speaks about personal responsibility and emotional independence. George Michael’s words suggest that happiness is not something that can be handed over by success, relationships or public approval. Instead, it comes from how a person treats themselves, through self-respect, compassion and honest self-care. By encouraging people to “be good to yourself,” he was pointing to the idea that inner peace begins within, not in the expectations or actions of others.The message feels especially relevant today. Nowadays, many people link happiness to likes on social media, validation or external achievements. George Michael’s words cut through that noise. They remind people that emotional well-being cannot depend on others alone. Whether in careers, relationships or personal growth, the quote encourages setting boundaries, choosing self-worth and understanding that happiness is a personal journey.
More about George Michael
Beyond the quote, George Michael’s life and career continue to inspire conversations around music, identity and authenticity. Born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in London in 1963, he first rose to fame as part of the pop duo Wham! before becoming one of the biggest solo artists of the 1980s and 1990s.Over his career, he sold more than 100 million records worldwide and earned multiple Grammy and American Music Awards. His catalogue includes timeless hits such as Faith, Father Figure, Freedom! ’90, and duets with legends like Aretha Franklin and Elton John.
George Michael passed away peacefully on Christmas Day in 2016 at the age of 53, according to BBC report. Yet, nearly a decade later, his voice, music and words continue to resonate.