Motivational Moments From Madam Secretary

Life isn't without its challenges, and perhaps no one knows that better than Elizabeth McCord, her family, and her brilliant team. Despite the many difficulties that face the United States and their personal lives, the highly motivated group of D.C. residents always find a way to lift themselves, and each other, up. Here are eight motivational moments from Madam Secretary's first three seasons. Watch Madam Secretary on Sundays at 9/8c on CBS and CBS All Access.

1. When the going gets tough, think like Madam Secretary.

Life isn't without its challenges, and perhaps no one knows that better than Elizabeth McCord, her family, and her brilliant team. Despite the many difficulties that face the United States and their personal lives, the highly motivated group of D.C. residents always find a way to lift themselves, and each other, up.

Read on for eight motivational moments from Madam Secretary's first three seasons.

Watch Madam Secretary on Sundays at 9/8c on CBS and CBS All Access.

2. Bess stepped up to the plate when her country needed her most.

After the White House lost all communication with Air Force One, Bess courageously set aside her fears and took over as the acting President of the United States.

To see her heroic act, watch "The Show Must Go On" (Episode 1, Season 2 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

3. Bess made a bold decision that saved millions of lives.

Upon learning that Algeria was on the brink of a bloody Civil War, Bess acted swiftly and strategically to negotiate a regime change. Though she had her doubts about whether she'd be successful, the seasoned diplomat appealed to both the pragmatic and emotional sides of Algerian leaders and ultimately saved the nation from a devastating battle.

To see Bess' carefully crafted plans unfold, watch "The Linchpin" (Episode 2, Season 3 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

4. Bess made history by reopening the U.S. embassy in Cuba.

Unsatisfied with the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba, Bess worked relentlessly to improve the countries' communication styles and trade agreements. Following a series of conversations and lobbying, Bess finally pulled off what many thought would never happen by once again ensuring America's place in Cuban diplomacy.

To see Bess do the unthinkable, watch "You Say You Want A Revolution" (Episode 7, Season 2 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

5. Henry encouraged Bess to believe in herself.

In the Season 1 finale, Bess' world turned upside-down when she and Henry were summoned to testify before the Senate Investigative Committee for exchanging information related to Vincent Marsh's deadly crash. Sensing her fears about the upcoming trial, Henry lovingly told her: "When everything seems to be lacking in integrity, you know what you do? You find it in yourself. You change the world right where you're standing."

To see Henry's heartfelt encouragement, watch "There But For The Grace Of God" (Episode 22, Season 1 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

6. Madeleine Albright inspired Bess to keep fighting.

After a long morning at work, Bess confided in the former Secretary of State about her frustrations with her position and with President Dalton. Instead of allowing Bess to grovel, Albright encouraged the new Madam Secretary to face her challenges head-on and to prove her aptitude and worth to the White House.

To see the exchange, watch "The Doability Doctrine" (Episode 2, Season 2 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

7. Matt gave a passionate speech following a terrorist bombing in his hometown.

In the aftermath of a terrorist attack linked to Matt's mosque rocked his hometown, the visibly shaken speech writer stood in front of his staff and defended his humanity, privacy, and faith in a truly moving address.

To see the vulnerable moment, watch "The Statement" (Episode 6, Season 3 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

8. Bess rallied members of the United Nations to join the fight against terrorism.

Bess took a stand against recent terrorist attacks when she formally condemned the militant group Hizb al-Shahid for their horrendous assaults. Her plea for assistance rattled the U.N. and stirred its members to action.

To see Bess' call for justice, watch "Ghost Detainee" (Episode 20, Season 2 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

9. Bess and Henry stood by Stevie during her darkest hour.

After intimate photos of Stevie and the President's son, Harrison, leaked, Bess and Henry rushed to be by their daughter's side. While the scandal could have been disastrous, the McCord family proved that nothing—not even a media frenzy—can tear them apart.

To see the touching episode, watch "Waiting For Taleju" (Episode 4, Season 2 of Madam Secretary) on CBS All Access.

Watch Madam Secretary on Sundays at 9/8c on CBS and CBS All Access.