“I think you need to think a little bit more like a man - plan smart, box clever. That’s what I would tell teenage girls, to look for themselves in life.”
Maura Derrane
“I think you need to think a little bit more like a man - plan smart, box clever. That’s what I would tell teenage girls, to look for themselves in life.”
Maura Derrane
Maura Derrane, born on July 8, 1970, is an Irish television presenter and journalist, well known for her candid and insightful commentary on life and culture. With a long-standing career in broadcasting, she has made her mark on Irish television through her work on programs like Ireland AM and The Today Show. Derrane’s perspective often reflects a mix of wisdom gained through personal and professional experiences.
In this quote, "I think you need to think a little bit more like a man - plan smart, box clever. That’s what I would tell teenage girls, to look for themselves in life," Derrane is encouraging young women to adopt a mindset that emphasizes strategy, pragmatism, and self-preservation. Her advice to "think a little bit more like a man" is meant to promote an approach associated with masculinity: calculated thinking, risk assessment, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with tactical precision.
The phrase "plan smart, box clever" is a piece of advice centered on strategic thinking. Planning smartly means making decisions that take into account the long-term consequences, rather than being guided solely by emotions or immediate desires. "Box clever" is a term borrowed from boxing, implying that one should use intelligence and wit over brute force—thinking ahead and anticipating obstacles, rather than reacting impulsively. By using these expressions, Derrane is underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency and resilience, particularly for teenage girls, who often face societal pressures to conform to certain roles.
In the latter part of the quote, Derrane advises girls "to look for themselves in life," meaning they should seek out their own identity and direction rather than relying on others for validation or guidance. This call for independence resonates deeply in a world where women, especially young ones, are frequently encouraged to base their self-worth on external factors such as appearance or relationships.
Derrane’s quote meaning urges young women to embrace a sense of personal empowerment, approaching life with both intelligence and strategy. It reflects a desire for girls to forge their own paths, becoming active agents in their own lives rather than passive participants.
I watch Maura often on RTE and she is so lovely and funny. Very nice snippet of her wisdom!