Maya Angelou, renowned poet and bestselling author, has many inspiring quotes. She has a gift for bringing out the truth with her simple and thought-provoking words. Here are some of her most famous quotes that explore the richness of life, love and relationships:
“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” This is one of Angelou’s most popular quotes, reminding us that our experiences shape us and how we view life, but should not define who we are or limit our potential.
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” This holds an important reminder – that there are certain things we may not be able to change, but our attitude and outlook is in our own control.
“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.” This builds on the leadership philosophy that relationships are more important than task-based roles.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” This inspiring sentiment focuses on personal growth and development, as well as helping others to thrive as well.
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” This quote is the quintessential reminder to not give up in the face of challenges.
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” This is a powerful reminder that external opinions should never be taken to heart and we should never give anyone the power to make us feel inadequate.
Self-Confidence
“When somebody tells you who they are, believe them the first time.” This is a reminder to pay attention to people’s words, actions and behavior and take them at their word.
“I’ve learned that something constructive comes from every defeat.” This demonstrates the power of perseverance and seeing the positives even in difficult situations.
“Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” This quote is all about making the world a better place and helping others even when we might be struggling ourself.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” This demonstrates personal responsibility, understanding that we can manage our environment to some degree.
“You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anyone.” Angelou’s message here is to value your own worth and never try to compete or prove yourself to others.
“A grasp of the obvious brings one to the realistic.” This quote shows that having an understanding of the basic realities of life provides an important foundation in order to move on to something bigger.
Love
“At the end of the day, people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” This is a reminder to bring kindness into our relationships and be mindful of how our words and actions can impact how people feel.
“Love life, engage in it, give it all you’ve got. Love it with a passion, because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it.” This is a reminder to put in our very best in all that we do, embracing both joys and sorrows with an open heart.
“At the end of the day, people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” This is a reminder to bring kindness into our relationships and be mindful of how our words and actions can impact how people feel.
“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” Angelou puts courage at the heart of all virtues, showing that without it, we cannot practice any other trait to its fullest potential.
“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” Angelou’s words here remind us that true love crosses boundaries and breaks down all obstacles.
“The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise.” This quote is a reminder that while ambitious dreams can be important, the most important thing is to have a positive impact on the lives of those we encounter.
Growth
” I don’t trust people who don’t love themselves and tell me, ‘I love you.’ … There is an African saying which is: Be careful when a naked person offers you a shirt.” This quote aptly shows that true love begins with ourselves and that we must be cautious of accepting love from those who do not practice it.
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” This simple yet powerful quote reminds us that success does not come from the outside, but rather from the strength of the individual and a sense of certainty.
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” This holds an important reminder: that there are certain things we may not be able to change, but our attitude and outlook is in our own control.
“No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.” This encouraging quote reminds us that difficulties are temporary and life keeps going no matter what.
“The first time someone shows you who they are, believe them.” This quote warns us to pay attention to people’s words, actions and behavior, and take them at their word.
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” This quote is a reminder to live life to the fullest and make each moment count.
Life Lessons
“The pain you feel today is the strength you feel tomorrow.” This quote is about looking at the challenges and struggles of life as opportunities for growth and strength.
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” This simple yet powerful quote reminds us that success does not come from the outside, but rather comes from the strength of the individual and a sense of certainty.
“I believe that every person is born with talent.” This quote reminds us that every person has something special to offer and to never underestimate anyone’s potential.
“Climbing to the top requires strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or to the top of your career.” This is a reminder that life is a journey and whatever path one chooses will require strength, hard work and dedication.
“I’ve learned that it takes years to build up trust, and only seconds to destroy it.” This is an important reminder that trust is hard to gain and it is important to take good care never to betray someone’s trust.
“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.” This powerful statement advocates for equality and diversity among people.
