Former First Lady Michelle Obama has spoken out for the first time about her recent absence from major political events and the swirling rumors of trouble in her marriage. In a new episode of the *Work in Progress* podcast with actress Sophia Bush, Michelle addressed why she’s been stepping back from the spotlight and it all comes down to making time for herself. Eight years after leaving the White House, Michelle explained that her life now looks very different. With her daughters grown and her official duties long behind her, she says she finally has the freedom to take control of her own schedule.
“I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago,” she said on the podcast, “but I didn’t give myself that freedom.” She admitted that she often used her children’s needs as a reason to put her own on the back burner. Now, she says that’s changed. Without naming names, Michelle gave an example of an event she chose not to attend this year not because she couldn’t, but because she decided to put herself first. That kind of decision, she says, is new for her and part of a broader shift in how she manages her time and energy.
Her recent low profile has sparked public speculation, especially after skipping events like Donald Trump’s second inauguration and the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter. Some even took her quiet presence as a sign of marital issues with her husband, former President Barack Obama.
Michelle addressed those rumors directly, saying that making choices for herself including saying no to certain appearances has sometimes been misunderstood. She acknowledged the guilt that can come with turning down invitations, but emphasized the importance of self-care. As she redefines her post-White House role, Michelle Obama made it clear that stepping back isn’t about distance from her family or politics it’s about finally stepping into her own space.
