Mornings don't have to be a drag. Here are some wise words from inspirational black women to start your day right. Start as you mean to go on!

"My recipe for life is not being afraid of myself, afraid of what I think or of my opinions' - Eartha Kitt

Known almost as much for her outspokenness as her acting and singing career, the late legendary entertainer Eartha Kitt was never afraid to speak her mind. In 1968 she confronted the then First Lady of the United States, Claudia 'Lady Bird' Johnson over the Vietnam War, and loudly voiced her opposition during a press conference held on the same day. Having worked with impoverished youth, Kitt understood the currents of injustice running through the country and contributing to unrest.

She ended up being blacklisted by the CIA, President Johnson instructed the FBI to investigate her, and she suffered from a concerted effort to derail her career. Nevertheless, she persisted. Eartha Kitt is an inspiration to never cover up or hold in what you think is right.

Watch: Eartha Kitt's White House 'Incident' and Its Aftermath

"Failure is a great teacher and, if you are open to it, every mistake has a lesson to offer" - Oprah Winfrey

Veteran broadcaster and media mogul Oprah Winfrey has made it her life's work to inspire people to find the best in themselves and work towards their goals and dreams. Her inspirational speech after winning the Cecile B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement convinced many people that she had what it takes to run for president.

Oprah rose from poverty to become the first black female billionaire and a household name. She has made mistakes, one of her biggest regrets was bringing a wagon full of fat on stage to represent her weight loss. She said it was an "ego trip" and no longer advocates strictly restrictive diets.

Whether she graces the Oval Office one day or not, this inspiration black woman has words of wisdom for all of us.

Watch: Oprah's inspirational Golden Globes speech

"I live my life day by day, and that's how I continue to live it" - Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell needs no introduction. The iconic British supermodel has dominated the fashion world for two decades, and launched a number of TV shows such as 'The Face' to spread her talents to a new generation. Naomi has fought for representation for black women across the fashion and beauty worlds as part of 'Diversity Coalition', and has been an advocate for the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.

Though often painted as a diva or aggressive, Naomi's forcefulness and her passion have helped her survive in an industry sometimes openly hostile to women of color, and keep flying the flag for her beliefs.

Watch: Naomi stand her ground in interview about fashion industry racism

Stay tuned for more words from some of our favourite inspirational women!

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