Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, has long been admired not only for her incredible talent but also for her unwavering authenticity. In a revealing interview with TODAY.com in May 2025, Parton shared the six-word phrase from her late mother, Avie Lee Parton, that became a guiding light throughout her extraordinary life and career: “To thine own self be true.”
A Timeless Lesson from the Smoky Mountains
The phrase, originally from Shakespeare’s Hamlet (Act 1, Scene 3), was often repeated by Avie Lee Parton, who raised 12 children in a humble one-bedroom cabin in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains. Dolly credits this advice with helping her stay grounded and genuine in a world often demanding conformity.
“There’s a whole lot of meaning in that phrase,” Dolly explained. “I’ve always tried to stay true to me. And always, when people ask me for advice, that’s kind of what I tell them” (TODAY.com, May 26, 2025).
Building on her mother’s wisdom, Dolly has developed her own empowering motto beloved by fans: “Find out who you are and do it on purpose. And do it with purpose.” She warns against imitation, urging people to embrace their unique identity. “You got to know who you are because so many people try to emulate or copy somebody else” (The Independent, May 28, 2025).
Living Her Truth Through Music, Style, and Spirit
This commitment to authenticity is evident throughout Parton’s multifaceted career. From humble beginnings singing on local East Tennessee radio to becoming a global superstar, she has never compromised her identity or values. “Don’t ever sacrifice who you are, your principles and your morals and your values to just try to get ahead in business. It ain’t worth it,” she told TODAY.com.
Her distinctive look—big hair, rhinestone-studded outfits, and high heels—is another form of self-expression rooted in this advice. Dolly openly embraces her unique style, explaining, “I’m not a true beauty… I’m not tall. I’m never going to be like a supermodel, so I like to wear my high heels.” Wearing wigs is part of how she joyfully embraces her outgoing personality while remaining true to herself (Yahoo, May 26, 2025).
Her late husband, Carl Dean, was a strong supporter of this philosophy. Dolly recalled his words of encouragement during moments of doubt: “You’re Dolly Parton. Go out there and show ’em who you are” (Movieguide.org, May 30, 2025). This support helped her stay authentic amid the pressures of fame.
Strength Through Loss and Purpose
The phrase took on even deeper meaning for Parton in 2025 following the passing of Carl Dean in March. Reflecting on her grief, she shared, “I’m at peace knowing that he’s at peace, but that doesn’t keep me from missing him and loving him” (The Independent, May 28, 2025). Her ability to balance sorrow and peace exemplifies the grounded authenticity taught by her mother.
Professionally, Dolly continues to honor her roots through ventures like expanding her food brand with single-serve frozen meals inspired by family recipes and co-authoring Good Lookin’ Cookin’ with her sister Rachel, celebrating their culinary heritage (Yahoo, EntertainmentNow.com, May 2025).
A Message That Resonates
Dolly Parton’s embrace of her mother’s six-word mantra resonates deeply with fans worldwide. In a Southern Living feature, she encouraged everyone to follow their own path: “You really need to do things your way, according to your rules, your personality, your mindset, your faith” (May 28, 2025).
Through decades of success, heartbreak, and reinvention, Dolly Parton’s journey remains a shining example of how staying true to oneself can lead to a life of purpose, joy, and inspiration for millions.
