Lessons from The Devil Wears Prada

So, I recently rewatched The Devil Wears Prada, and it hit me like a Jimmy Choo to the face.

Remember Andy Sachs, the overworked assistant who’s thrown into a world of unrealistic expectations, 24/7 work demands, and zero personal life?

Yeah, turns out that movie wasn’t just about fashion. It’s a metaphor for modern workplace dynamics—minus the Chanel suits and dramatic coat-flinging, of course.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: But it’s just a movie! Well, sure, but you can’t deny how relatable it is. Watching Andy try to balance her life while being told “a million girls would kill for this job” felt eerily familiar. The Devil Wears Prada is the cinematic embodiment of double standards at work.

Boundaries, But Not Really

You see, boundaries are kind of like Emily Blunt’s character in the movie. You think they’re there, but blink, and you’ve been replaced by someone willing to burn themselves out even faster.

Companies love to say they support your growth, personal life etc but the reality is often more like a high-stakes test of your endurance.

Many times you'll find yourself needing to actually put your well-being on the back burner, and sometimes, it's a necessary sacrifice, especially if you're passionate about your work and feel valued. But there's a fine line between dedication and being taken advantage of. It's easy to get caught in a cycle of constantly pushing yourself, especially when faced with unreasonable demands like when Miranda Priestly casually asks for the impossible, getting the unpublished Harry Potter manuscript, and expects you to deliver it without batting an eye.

The Myth of the Open-Door Policy

Speaking of unrealistic expectations, let’s talk about the beloved open-door policy you’ve probably heard about at work. It’s that thing where managers tell you their door is “always open,” but it really what most of them mean, especially in big corporations, is that they’re willing to listen—as long as you’re not actually asking for anything. Kinda like how Miranda is “available” to Andy, but only for tasks that benefit her, not for, you know, actual human connection or support.

In the real world, walking through that open door can feel like walking into a minefield. Sure, your feedback is welcomed, but bring up any real issues and suddenly you’re “not a team player.” It’s the workplace version of when Miranda gives you that cold, appraising stare, making you feel two inches tall for daring to have needs. You might as well ask for a weekend off during fashion week—it’s not happening.

The Reality Check

The truth is, large corporations have long been driven by profit, a reality that dates back to the days of Rockefellers and J.P. Morgan, who worked their employees day and night with little respite. It’s no surprise tha. t this mindset persists today, even if it's now dressed up in trendy terms like “flexibility” etc When employees actually try to embrace these concepts, the enthusiasm often seems to fade.

So, what can we do? Well, if there's anything we can learn from The Devil Wears Prada , it’s that sometimes you have to walk away from the Miranda Priestlys of the world to find what truly matters. (And maybe not quit in Paris, but hey, dramatic exits are always fun.)

Looking Back at the Movie

As years go by, I always find new revelations each time I rewatch an old movie, and this time it was a true bliss with one of my favorites. Not just because it’s a fantastic film (Meryl Streep is a queen), but because it’s still so relevant today. The long work hours, the disregard for personal boundaries, the constant feeling of being replaceable—it’s all there. But what makes the movie brilliant is its underlying message: sometimes, it’s okay to say “enough.” To walk away. To set boundaries—even if it means risking the wrath of your own personal Miranda.

At the end of the day, boundaries are only real if we all respect them—employers and employees alike. And if you ever feel like your workplace is starting to resemble Runway magazine, maybe it’s time to pull an Andy and ask yourself if it’s all worth it.

Just, you know, without throwing your phone into a Parisian fountain.

I appreciate you and the time you invest in reading this.

Do your best every day, but also kind to all!