27 Important Lessons Dolly Parton Has Taught Us

Sep 07, 2026 by Elvira Burgo

Dolly Parton brightened our world with her joy and was a wise and sharp businesswoman who founded 20 businesses during her lifetime. Her journey from poverty to stardom offers insights into her life and its profound impact on others. In this article, I will share 27 valuable lessons that Dolly Parton has taught us about happiness, resilience, generosity, and dreams. 

 

27 Important Lessons Dolly Parton Has Taught Us

 

  1. Happiness

It was in Dolly’s nature to be happy, even in dark times, and to ensure others were happy. She once said, “I want to make as many people happy.”

 

  1. Life

Dolly lived her life to the fullest. 

“I try to make the most of everything,” she said.  

 

  1. Legacy

A good quote from her: 

“People will remember you more for who you were than for how many records you sold.”

 

  1. Music Industry

Dolly focused on the business side of the music industry and became a savvy businesswoman. To her, the music business was “more about gut than talent.” 

 

  1. Caring

Dolly valued her appearance, her dreams, and other people. She donated money to good causes and gave of herself until the very end. 

She said, “Care enough, care for people.”

 

  1. Laughter

Dolly giggled and laughed out loud at herself, making others laugh too.

 

  1. Health 

According to Dolly, the key to longevity is “loving what you do and being excited every day.”

Despite neglecting her own health while caring for her husband, Dolly continued to live fully until the end and never gave up. With many plans and projects in place, she stayed hopeful and positive.

 

  1. Blessings

Dolly counted her blessings more than her money. 

 

  1. Dream

One of Dolly’s favorite expressions was, “If you can dream it, you can have it. 

During her commencement speech, Dolly encouraged students to dream more, keep dreaming, and never give up. “You can do anything that you want to, if you put in the work,” she said. Dolly believed pursuing a dream requires sacrifice, and that you must give up a lot to chase it.

 

  1. Gift

Dolly made the most of her gifts.

 

  1. Faith

She relied on her faith in difficult times.  

 

  1. Outlook

Dolly believed in making the best of what she had. 

Energetic, hyper, and hungry for attention as a child, Dolly tried to channel her energy into good things. 

 

 

  1. Advice

Dolly said, “If people give you advice, always listen to your heart.”  

 

  1. Love

According to Dolly, love is about caring and loving what you do. Love is also family and a mother’s thoughtfulness.

 

  1. Hope

Dolly taught us to give a child hope. 

 

  1. Doubt  

When Dolly told her graduation class she was going to Nashville to become a star, students laughed out loud. “I showed them,” she said years later. 

 

  1. Family

Family was shared storytime, meals, and love. 

Dolly showed how a mother’s love and attention, a father’s hard work, and a supportive uncle can positively influence a child. 

 

  1. Writing

According to Dolly, writing can be therapeutic and a passion. She taught others to appreciate the art of writing. 

 

  1. Poverty

Dolly expressed that you don’t have to be poor and that family love is true wealth.  

 

  1. Learning

Dolly believed that the more you learn, the easier things will become.

 

  1. Effort

She believed that one should always try. 

Dolly also said:

“The first step is always the hardest, but you’ll never know unless you try.” 

“There’s a good feeling when you do try, even if you fall flat on your face.” 

 

  1. Children

Dolly is proof that one can make a positive difference in the lives of children. 

 

  1. Fashion

Dolly set high fashion standards and wore distinct outfits. She believed that one should always care about their appearance and look their best.

 

  1. Hard work 

She advised taking action instead of overthinking.  

According to Dolly, “Nobody ever makes it without working hard. Working hard is not just about the effort; it’s about learning, trying new things, and taking chances.” 

 

  1. Books

Dolly inspired a love of books in us. She published at least 10 books and founded the Imagination Library, which distributed more than 332 million books to children under the age of 5.

 

  1. Belief

Belief is strength to Dolly, who thought one should trust one's talent and what one has to offer. 

 

  1. Change

“Together, we can change the world,” Dolly said. 

With her transition, Dolly’s light shines brighter.

 

 

Dolly Parton has taught us how to live a happy, successful, and fulfilling life. Her joy, generosity, and love for people have positively impacted many lives. It’s no surprise that people love her, and California has proclaimed September 25 as Dolly Parton Day. 

Thanks for reading,

Elvira