Dolly Parton Shares How Her Mama’s Favorite Phrase Still Shapes Her Life and Career

Country music legend Dolly Parton recently opened up about a powerful mantra passed down from her mother that continues to guide her—“To thine own self be true.” This timeless phrase, originating from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, has become a cornerstone of Dolly’s philosophy, influencing her iconic career, personal life, and even her business ventures.

The Shakespearean Roots of a Southern Guiding Light

The phrase “To thine own self be true” appears in Act 1, Scene 3 of Hamlet, spoken by Polonius to his son Laertes as advice to stay authentic and honest. Dolly’s mother, Avie Lee, embraced this wisdom and instilled it in her daughter from a young age. This literary gem, blending timeless English poetry with Southern upbringing, has left a lasting imprint on Dolly’s approach to life.

Staying Authentic in Music and Beyond

In a May 2025 interview with TODAY.com, Dolly Parton emphasized how this phrase has shaped her decisions and outlook. “Find out who you are and do it on purpose. And do it with purpose,” she told the interviewer, underscoring the importance of authenticity and intentionality.

Her unique style, blending country roots with bold individuality, reflects this ethos. An article in Southern Living elaborated on how Dolly credits this mantra for helping her maintain her identity amidst fame and changing industry landscapes. “There’s a whole lot of meaning in that phrase,” she explained, highlighting how it informs her choices and public interactions.

A Mantra for Business and Life

Even as Dolly expands her empire—most recently with a new line of frozen Southern favorites, as reported by The Independent in May 2025—she stays grounded in this personal mantra. It serves as a reminder that no matter how diverse her ventures become, authenticity remains her compass.

Sharing Wisdom with the World

Beyond her own life, Dolly Parton frequently shares this phrase as advice to others. “When people ask me for advice, that’s kind of what I tell them,” she told TODAY.com. This simple yet profound message aligns with her longstanding role as a mentor and philanthropist, evident in initiatives like her Imagination Library, which promotes literacy worldwide.

Dolly Parton’s enduring embrace of “To thine own self be true” reveals the deep values behind her stardom—a testament to the power of authenticity, family wisdom, and purposeful living. As she continues to inspire new generations, this phrase remains a beacon lighting her path.