Pretty Woman is a rags-to-riches meets Cinderella story, because Vivian is a girl with dreams who was never given a chance.
Though the story is an old movie, it is a timeless classic with relationship lessons that every single lady should know and apply.
The movie Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Greene, was released in 1990 and
became a nominal hit. This was way before Netflix, and many countries did not have many
cinemas at the time, but Pretty Woman made 430 million at the box office, holding the record as one of the 5th highest-selling movies in the world.
The story of Pretty Woman was about Vivian, a prostitute who becomes an escort for Edward, a rich
entrepreneur. Edward pays her to be his date at a potential business meeting for a week, a series of
events takes place, and they end up falling in love and living happily ever after.
After one week with Edward, she realises a better life is possible, quits prostitution and makes plans
to educate herself and find a better path towards a better life.
The character of Vivian is not waiting for Edward’s character to save her. It is actually the reverse
that happens.
In a time where many a woman is waiting for her prince charming to swoop in and solve all their problems, here are three ways to soar, rise and ‘bag’ your man in the process:
1. Vivian had a strong sense of identity. She was not defined by her circumstances. She always
knew she was smart, confident and ambitious.
2. Vivian was willing to walk away from a potential relationship when the terms did not suit
her. At the end of a week together, Edward was willing to set her up in a fully furnished
apartment as a paid mistress. Vivian wanted better and turned down the offer, even if it
meant she would never see Edward again.
3. Vivian chose growth above change. Everyone talks about change; every January we make a
list of resolutions that may be broken and forgotten by May. After being exposed to High
society, mentored on the etiquette of being a lady by a character named Bernard, Vivian
knew she was made for better. When you go for growth, instead of a decision to change, it is
impossible to return to old ways.
4. Vivian adapted to her new environment quickly and sought help from others. Every lady
seeking a relationship that’s built to last should be teachable. When she received money
from Edward to go shopping, she was turned out of a high-end store because she came
wearing her prostitute clothes.
Vivian didn’t cower in a corner and cry; she sought help from the kind hotel manager named Barnard. Vivian learnt everything she needed to be a high-class lady so she could blend right in: style, elegance and etiquette. She knew her survival in that situation could not depend on looks and sexual appeal, and she adapted quickly.
