Maya Angelou was a legendary poet, author, and civil rights activist. Her words inspire many people around the world. One of the key themes in her work is success. She believed that success is not just about fame or money but also about personal growth and helping others. Her quotes remind us that we have the power to shape our lives and reach our dreams.
Today, we will share some of Maya Angelou’s most inspiring quotes about success. Each quote carries a valuable lesson that can motivate you to overcome challenges and pursue your goals. Let’s look at these powerful words and see how they can guide us on our journey to success.
Maya Angelou Quotes About Success
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” – Maya Angelou
This quote teaches us that true success begins within ourselves. If we appreciate who we are, enjoy our activities, and are satisfied with our approach, that’s the essence of success. Personal fulfillment plays a very significant role in our journey, helping us to embrace our unique talents and pursue our passions with confidence.
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that creativity is a boundless resource. The more we put our creativity to work, the more ideas and solutions we generate. This belief in an endless supply of creativity encourages us to explore new avenues and not to fear failure, knowing we can always find inspiration and new paths.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the importance of our impact on others. Success is often about building relationships and understanding that our actions influence people profoundly. When we focus on kindness, empathy, and understanding, we create a lasting legacy rather than a mere checklist of accomplishments.
“Nothing will work unless you do.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of taking action. We can have dreams and aspirations, but without putting in the effort, they remain unfulfilled. Success demands hard work, dedication, and persistence. It’s a constant reminder that we are the architects of our own achievements through our actions.
“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
This quote motivates us to keep fighting through obstacles. Defeats are part of life, but they do not define us. Instead of letting setbacks hold us back, we should see them as opportunities to learn and grow, pushing us closer to our definition of success.
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.” – Maya Angelou
This quote inspires us to take charge of our lives. Standing back only leads to stagnation, while effectively putting ideas into action leads to growth and success. It’s a call to step out of our comfort zone and take risks that can lead us to our desired outcomes.
“The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that while ambition is important, connecting with others is even more valuable. True success is not only measured by our aspirations but also by the positive influence we have on the lives of those around us. We should strive to make a difference in the hearts of others.
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou
This quote teaches us about adaptability. We have the power to change our circumstances, and if that’s not possible, we can always adjust our mindset. Maintaining a positive attitude in challenging situations fosters our resilience and helps us navigate our way toward success.
“You are the sum total of everything you’ve ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot—it’s all there. Everything influences each of us.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the importance of our experiences in shaping who we are. Every moment adds to our journey. Understanding how our past influences us allows us to make better choices and pursue success in alignment with our true selves.
“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” – Maya Angelou
This powerful quote empowers us to accept events in our lives shaping us without letting them diminish our spirit. It reminds us that we have control over how we respond to challenges. Resilience and strength are characteristics of those who define success on their own terms.
“I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one.” – Maya Angelou
This quote suggests that while we all experience difficulties, it’s essential not to let those struggles dictate our behavior or interactions with others. We can achieve success by choosing to rise above our challenges and embody positivity, impacting the world around us.
“If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to embrace our uniqueness. Trying to fit into societal norms may hinder us from discovering our true potential. Success comes from being authentic and letting our true selves shine without worrying about conformity.
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of individuality. In a society that often pressures us to conform, staying true to ourselves is a significant achievement. This authenticity is a vital component of our success, allowing us to build a life that aligns with our genuine desires.
“We need much fewer things in our lives, but we make them much bigger than ourselves.” – Maya Angelou
This quote challenges our consumerist society, reminding us that fulfillment doesn’t come from material possessions. Instead, we should focus on what truly matters in life, like our relationships and passions, which contribute significantly to our definition of success.
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” – Maya Angelou
This quote shifts our focus from material achievements to meaningful experiences. True success lies in creating memorable moments that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. We should seek out and cherish these moments that add depth to our existence.
“The most important thing is to be true to yourself and those around you.” – Maya Angelou
This quote underlines the essence of integrity. Success is built on trust, and being honest with ourselves and others creates strong bonds. When we practice authenticity, we cultivate an environment conducive to growth, collaboration, and shared successes.
“A wise woman once said, ‘We cannot see how far we can go until we find out what is worth taking with us on the journey.'” – Maya Angelou
This quote discusses the importance of discernment in our pursuits. Success involves recognizing what and who adds value to our lives and letting go of distractions that don’t serve our growth. By evaluating our resources, we can maximize our potential.
“If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that aiming for perfection may hold us back from realizing our true talents. Embracing our unique qualities and stepping away from societal expectations from each of us unlocks immense potential, leading to more significant achievements.
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
This quote inspires resilience in the face of challenges. We should learn from our defeats, allowing them to strengthen us rather than define our journey. Embracing this philosophy is a crucial step toward achieving our goals.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reflects the growth mindset. We should always aim to do our best and learn from our experiences. Improvement is a part of success, and evolving our abilities is essential to reaching our goals.
“As I have said, you have to love yourself first, so that you can be capable of loving others.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights self-love as the foundation for success in relationships. When we practice self-acceptance, we become better equipped to support and care for those around us, creating a nurturing environment for mutual growth.
“The first time someone tells you that you’re no good, believe them. But the second time, don’t.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to be resilient against negativity. The first setback can sting, but allowing that to define us is a choice. As we grow, we learn to develop a stronger sense of self and refuse to accept negative opinions that others may hold.
“Life is not a bed of roses, but it is full of opportunities.” – Maya Angelou
This quote offers a balanced perspective on life. We face challenges, but these obstacles often come with opportunities for growth and success. Embracing life’s ups and downs allows us to seize potential advancements on our journey.
“The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of preparation and proactivity. Right now, when things are going well, providing extra care for future challenges is essential. Setting a solid foundation today will pave the way for success in the long run.
“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” – Maya Angelou
This quote showcases the joy of generosity. Sharing what we can with others brings a unique sense of fulfillment and success that personal achievements cannot replicate. Through giving, we forge connections and enrich our lives.
“Life is really about the experience, not the outcome.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us to appreciate the journey. Focusing on the experiences we gather along the way creates a richer understanding of success. Embracing every moment helps us become more resilient and open to new possibilities.
“You may write me down in history, with your bitter, twisted lies… But still, like dust, I’ll rise.” – Maya Angelou
This inspiring quote emphasizes strength and perseverance despite adversity. No matter what negative experiences we face, we must choose to rise above them. Embracing this resilience is vital to achieving success in any aspect of our lives.
“Success is not a destination, but a journey that never ends.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes success as an ongoing process. Achieving our goals isn’t the final milestone, but rather a series of steps that continuously build our character and experiences. Understanding this keeps us motivated to keep growing.
“If I am not good to myself, how can I expect anyone else to be good to me?” – Maya Angelou
This quote stresses the importance of self-care. Our relationship with ourselves sets the tone for how others treat us. Investing in self-love and care allows us to nurture confidence and achieve success in our connections with others.
“People will not remember what you said or did, but they will remember how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that relationships matter more than tasks at hand. Success is measured through our ability to impact others positively. Fostering trust and warmth in our interactions creates a more significant influence than accomplishments alone.
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to spread kindness and positivity. Success is not just about our achievements; it’s also about uplifting those around us. Being a source of hope and encouragement helps us build meaningful relationships and creates a supportive environment.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” – Maya Angelou
This quote addresses the importance of expression. We must share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences to free ourselves from burdens and contribute to the richness of human life. Telling our stories can lead to immense personal growth and success.
“We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us of our shared humanity. Understanding our similarities fosters connection and collaboration. Building relationships based on empathy and understanding ultimately leads to collective success in our communities.
“We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
This quote echoes the power of resilience. Challenges are part of our life’s journey, and having the strength to rise after failure is essential for success. Embracing our setbacks enables us to emerge stronger and more prepared for future opportunities.
“The greatness in you already exists; we must find it and make it flourish.” – Maya Angelou
This quote motivates us to recognize our inherent potential. Success is not about searching for something outside ourselves but rather cultivating what is already within us. Acknowledging our abilities fuels our growth and our accomplishments.
“Do I want to be a millionaire? Yes. But more than that, I want to be an individual who has made a difference.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes that while wealth can be appealing, it’s essential to focus on making a positive impact. True success is reflected in the changes we create for others rather than just our financial status. This perspective should guide our goals and ambitions.
“I want to be known for my own achievements, not for the things I am or am not.” – Maya Angelou
This quote inspires authenticity. We should strive to be recognized for our individual accomplishments rather than what society dictates. Embracing our true selves builds the foundation for success and leaves a lasting legacy.
“I’ve learned that if you don’t seize your opportunities, they may vanish.” – Maya Angelou
This quote teaches us the importance of action and timing. Opportunities can be fleeting, and we must recognize when they arise. Taking initiative can lead us to success, so we should be prepared to act when the moment presents itself.
“We need to consistently put in the work and learn to be patient.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes dedication and perseverance. Success is often a gradual process that requires our consistent efforts over time. We must be patient and trust the value of our hard work as we progress towards our goals.
“If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded.” – Maya Angelou
This quote tells us that success goes beyond personal fulfillment; it involves caring for others. When we prioritize compassion and empathy in our lives, we build connections that unite us, making our journeys richer and more meaningful.
“In the flush of love’s light, we twist and shout to proclaim the happy, happy ending.” – Maya Angelou
This quote celebrates joy and fulfillment. Success brings us happiness and unity with those we love. Celebrating these moments becomes essential in our lives, providing motivation as we move forward and strive for our goals.
“From the moment I wake up, I am thankful for another day, another opportunity to make a difference.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes gratitude as the core of our daily lives. Each day is a chance to contribute to the world positively. Embracing this mindset motivates us to make the most of our time and actively seek success in meaningful ways.
“The greatest gift is not being afraid to question.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages curiosity and critical thinking. Asking questions leads to growth and knowledge, which are essential for success. By seeking to understand ourselves and our surroundings better, we can continuously expand our horizons and achieve our dreams.
“I’ve learned that I can’t force my way into someone else’s story; I have to create my own.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the value of pacing our personal journeys. We can’t rely on others to shape our paths; each of us must take ownership of our stories. This control allows us to determine what defines success in our lives.
“Your best self will emerge when you honor who you are.” – Maya Angelou
This quote invites us to embrace our true selves. By recognizing our unique qualities, we begin to achieve success aligned with our values. Accepting ourselves fosters an environment for growth and strengthens our confidence.
“If you don’t know where you are going, you will never get there.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the importance of clarity in our goals. To achieve success, we need to set specific outcomes and intentions. Clearly envisioning our paths enriches our journey and helps us measure our progress effectively.
“One isn’t born a woman; one becomes one.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of growth and becoming who we are meant to be. Success is about evolving over time and striving to improve ourselves. Acknowledging this can help us take charge of our journeys and become our best selves.
“You can’t become what you want to be by remaining what you are.” – Maya Angelou
This quote pushes us to embrace change. To achieve our dreams, we must step out of our comfort zones and adapt. Growth often comes with challenges, but it’s necessary for unlocking our potential for success.
“Determine your own self-worth; you cannot base it on another’s opinion.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us how important it is to value ourselves beyond external validation. Our definitions of success should come from our own beliefs and aspirations rather than others. Staying true to ourselves empowers us to achieve our goals.
“We can learn to be better human beings, even when we make mistakes.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of growth through failure. Making mistakes is part of life, and the key to success lies in learning from them. Accepting our imperfections allows us to grow and develop into better versions of ourselves.
“To keep your test results alive, you need a dance partner.” – Maya Angelou
This quote captures the essence of collaboration. Success often involves partnership and teamwork, reminding us that working together enhances our abilities and enriches our experiences.
“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the power of love to facilitate success. When we act from a place of love and goodwill, we can overcome obstacles. This universal language creates connections and leads to meaningful achievements.
“The truth is, the only way to do that is to be my own best advocate.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to stand up for ourselves. To achieve success, we must champion our own needs and aspirations. By being our advocates, we can ensure that our voices and ideas are heard and respected.
“It’s not about the destination; it’s the experiences that shape us.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that journey matters more than the final objectives. Embracing the experiences along the way enriches our lives. Our growth and learning through life’s challenges ultimately define our success.
“Always live your truth.” – Maya Angelou
This concise quote emphasizes authenticity. Success comes from being true to who we are and embracing our stories. Living our truth influences how we approach life’s challenges and measure our accomplishments.
“Keep fighting for what is right!” – Maya Angelou
This quote inspires us to stand firm in our values. Pursuing success means advocating for justice and positive change in our communities. We should channel our dreams into actions that promote equality and fairness.
“You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody.” – Maya Angelou
This quote celebrates our inherent worth. It reminds us that we don’t need to seek validation outside ourselves. Success comes from recognizing our value, allowing us to pursue our dreams without fear of judgment.
“Living well is an act of rebellion.” – Maya Angelou
This quote implies that embracing a fulfilling life defies societal expectations. By prioritizing our happiness and success, we can challenge norms and inspire others to follow their unique paths.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the fulfillment that comes from helping others. Serving those around us enriches our lives and helps us discover our true selves, a critical aspect of achieving personal success.
“The words that we say and the future do not match. We must make the future match the words we say.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of accountability. Our actions should align with our intentions, as success requires us to stay true to our promises. This integrity empowers us to inspire others and cultivate trust.
“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reveals that courage is essential for every aspect of our lives. To achieve success, we must be brave enough to pursue our dreams, stand up for our values, and take risks even amidst uncertainty.
“I find that I am not afraid of the unknown. It draws me like a moth to a flame.” – Maya Angelou
This quote celebrates curiosity and openness. Embracing the unknown allows us to explore new opportunities and territories, leading to personal growth and success. We should be willing to step out of our comfort zones to discover life’s possibilities.
“The most empowering thing you can do is to create your personal narrative.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to take charge of our stories. Defining our narratives enables us to set our intentions and pursue success on our terms. By owning our experiences, we can shape our futures effectively.
“When I look back, I realize that all my achievements stem from creativity.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the role of creativity in driving our success. It serves as a reminder to embrace our imaginative capacities that can lead to unique solutions and paths. Nurturing our creativity allows us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.
“The soul of a woman is like the moon; it goes through different phases.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reflects the ebb and flow of life experiences. Our journeys consist of varying phases, and understanding that change is part of growth is crucial. Accepting these transformations can guide our pursuit of success.
“Life’s song could be the beginning of your greatest adventure.” – Maya Angelou
This quote inspires us to view life as a rich journey of experiences. Each moment offers a chance to explore new paths and find success. By embracing our adventures, we can unlock new chapters in our lives.
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to take responsibility for our actions and inspire change. Our paths to success often stem from our active contributions to our communities. By embodying the change we want to see, we inspire others.
“I have a vision of the future that gives me strength.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of having purpose. Holding a vision of what we want to achieve fuels our motivation, guiding our actions as we strive for success. Establishing clear goals enriches our journey toward fulfillment.
“You must do the things you think you cannot do.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to push beyond our limits. Success often requires us to confront our fears and challenge our capabilities. By overcoming self-doubt, we can achieve extraordinary things and grow stronger in the process.
“We can all be heroes. You have to allow it to happen.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the potential within each of us. Embracing our unique strengths allows us to rise to challenges and become the heroes of our stories. Recognizing this capability empowers us on our path to success.
“The mind is a potent tool; it can create obstacles or solutions.” – Maya Angelou
This quote speaks to the impact of our mindset. Our thoughts directly influence our outcomes. Focusing our minds on positive solutions can pave the way for success, while negative thoughts hinder our progress.
“Trust yourself; you know more than you think you do.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the importance of self-trust. Recognizing our skills and instincts is crucial to achieving success. Believing in ourselves allows us to take risks and pursue opportunities without fear.
“Creativity can’t be forced; it has to flow naturally.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of letting creativity flourish. For success, we need to cultivate an environment that fosters natural expression rather than applying pressure. Embracing this flow enhances our original ideas and solutions.
“The universe is not a problem; the universe is a possibility.” – Maya Angelou
This quote invites us to see the world as a place full of opportunities. Viewing challenges as possibilities encourages us to innovate and seek solutions. Maya Angelou reminds us that with the right mindset, we can achieve extraordinary success.
“Today is a gift; that’s why we call it the present.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us to cherish each day. Recognizing the value of time can lead to living fully and intentionally. Taking advantage of today is essential in our journey toward success.
“We are all educators. We teach ourselves and others every day.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the transformative power of education. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow, both for ourselves and those around us. Sharing knowledge and experiences contributes significantly to our collective success.
“Experience is a brutal teacher, but you learn. My God, do you learn.” – Maya Angelou
This quote speaks to the importance of learning from adversity. Life’s lessons shape us profoundly, pushing us to grow. Embracing these experiences will inevitably lead us toward success and deeper understanding.
“The worst thing to call somebody is ‘crazy.’ It’s dismissive. I don’t understand this person. So they’re crazy. That’s bull.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the importance of empathy. Dismissing differences can lead to misunderstandings; instead, we should seek to understand others. By fostering compassion and open-mindedness, we can build stronger bonds, paving the way for collective success.
“Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told, ‘I’m with you, kid. Let’s go.'” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to embrace life with enthusiasm. Our attitudes and willingness to engage fully in experiences can lead to profound success. Life becomes richer when we approach it with excitement and curiosity.
“One’s own life is a process of becoming.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reflects the ongoing journey of growth. Each stage of our lives contributes to who we are becoming. Embracing this evolution is vital to recognizing our achievements and feeling fulfilled in our pursuit of success.
“No one can take away your happiness unless you give it away.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the importance of personal responsibility in our happiness. Success is rooted in maintaining our joy and fulfillment, which remain under our control. By nurturing our happiness, we empower ourselves to pursue our dreams effectively.
“Without courage, we can’t expect to speak out.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the necessity of bravery. To successfully advocate for our beliefs and values, we must cultivate the courage to express ourselves. Speaking out can inspire change and promote growth in ourselves and others.
“Don’t let your writing make you feel like an outcast.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reminds us that our unique voices should be celebrated. Fear of rejection can stifle our creativity, but embracing our individuality is essential to achieving success. We should cherish our contributions to art, literature, and conversation.
“Listen to yourself and in that quietude, you might hear the voice of God.” – Maya Angelou
This quote highlights the power of introspection. By listening to our inner selves, we can uncover truths that guide our paths towards success. Connecting with our inner voice allows us to navigate challenges and stay aligned with our mission.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages us to take action in shaping our lives. By actively working towards our goals and ambitions, we create the future we desire. This proactive approach empowers us to achieve success on our terms.
“Your legacy is every life you’ve touched.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the significance of our relationships. True success is reflected in the impact we leave on others. By touching lives with kindness and compassion, we create a lasting legacy that transcends material achievements.
“You are enough just as you are.” – Maya Angelou
This quote reinforces self-acceptance. Embracing ourselves as we are enables us to pursue our goals without fear of judgment. Recognizing our inherent worth is vital in our journey to success and fulfillment.
“The greatest lessons are learned through our struggles.” – Maya Angelou
This quote emphasizes the value of adversity in our growth. Overcoming struggles provides invaluable lessons and prepares us for future challenges. These experiences help shape our definition of success, allowing us to rise stronger from hardships.
“The world is a great big picture book, and you can write your own story.” – Maya Angelou
This quote encourages creativity and self-determination. Each of us holds the power to shape our narratives and pursue success according to our dreams. Understanding this allows us to take control of our paths and embrace our unique stories.
Final Thoughts
Maya Angelou’s words about success remind us that it is a journey filled with personal growth, compassion, and resilience. Each quote carries valuable lessons encouraging us to embrace our unique qualities and aspirations. We can achieve fulfilling success by connecting with ourselves and others while learning from our experiences.
As we navigate our paths in life, let us hold onto Maya Angelou’s wisdom and apply these teachings in our lives. The journey may be challenging, but it is also rewarding as we continue to learn and grow. Let’s strive to live our best lives and inspire those around us.
If you’re inspired by Maya Angelou’s quotes, you might also explore more uplifting ideas at Maya Angelo Quotes or seek inspiration through Inspirational Quotes about Hard Work. Let’s keep exploring and learning!