Michelle Obama has opened up about why she decided not to attend former President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January. While her husband, Barack Obama, attended both the inauguration and the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, Michelle stayed away from both events.

At first, Michelle said it was a personal choice. But during a recent episode of her podcast “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson,” she shared more details.

“It started with not having anything to wear,” she said. She explained that she’s usually prepared with outfits for formal events like funerals or ceremonies. But this time, she made a clear decision — she didn’t even want a dress ready. This was her way of fully committing to not going.

Michelle also said people made unfair assumptions, like thinking her marriage was in trouble, just because she chose not to attend.

“My choice was about doing what felt right for me,” she explained. “But people thought something must be wrong. They couldn’t believe I was just saying no for myself.”

During the podcast, actress Taraji P. Henson praised Michelle’s choice, calling women “shock absorbers” who often carry the emotional weight for others. She celebrated Michelle for finally putting herself first.

Michelle said she’s now trying to teach her daughters, Sasha and Malia, how to say no and take care of their own needs. “It’s something you have to practice,” she said. “You have to build that muscle of knowing you’re enough just as you are.”

On another podcast, Work in Progress with Sophia Bush, Michelle also shut down the divorce rumors. She said her decision had nothing to do with her marriage, but everything to do with choosing what was right for her own well-being.