Thursday, June 5, 2025

Expanded Meaning:

In a world that often defines success by external markers—wealth, fame, job titles—Maya Angelou reminds us that real success is internal and deeply personal. It’s not about impressing others, collecting trophies, or meeting society’s expectations. It’s about being at peace with yourself.

1. “Liking yourself” means having self-respect, embracing your strengths and flaws, and not being at war with who you are. It’s the foundation of authentic success: without self-acceptance, no amount of external achievement will bring lasting satisfaction.
   

2. “Liking what you do” emphasizes alignment between your work (or daily pursuits) and your passions or values. Whether you're a teacher, artist, entrepreneur, or parent, fulfillment comes from engaging in things that feel meaningful—not just profitable.
   

3. “Liking how you do it” is about integrity. It’s not just what you do, but how you go about it—your character, your effort, your intentions. It’s doing things with care, kindness, and excellence, in a way that makes you proud.
   

Together, these three layers create a holistic definition of success that’s sustainable, soul-nourishing, and self-driven. It’s not about living up to someone else’s idea of achievement—it’s about being proud of the life you are creating.

Origin and Context:

This quote is widely attributed to Maya Angelou, an iconic American poet, author, and civil rights activist known for her deep wisdom and soulful articulation of personal empowerment. While the exact publication source is hard to pinpoint, the sentiment reflects core themes she expressed throughout her life and body of work—especially in books like “Letter to My Daughter” and her autobiographies like “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.”

Angelou often challenged narrow definitions of success, urging people to live with dignity, purpose, and self-love—especially those marginalized by society. This quote captures that philosophy: that true success is measured not by applause, but by inner harmony.

Takeaways:

This quote invites you to redefine success on your own terms. Ask yourself:

• Do I like who I am becoming?
  

• Am I doing something that brings me alive?
  

• Am I proud of the way I’m showing up in the world?
  

When the answer is “yes” to all three, you’ve already succeeded—no matter what your résumé says.

🔖 Resource List: Embracing Authentic Success

Books:

1. Letter to My Daughter by Maya Angelou
   A collection of essays sharing Angelou’s wisdom on identity, self-worth, and living with grace and confidence.
   

2. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
   Encourages readers to embrace who they are and live wholeheartedly, with courage and self-compassion.
   

3. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
   A powerful reminder that meaning, not achievement, is the key to fulfillment—even in life’s most difficult circumstances.
   

Articles & Essays:

1. “What is Success?” – Psychology Today
   Explores different definitions of success and how aligning with personal values leads to fulfillment.
    (search on psychologytoday.com)
   

2. Maya Angelou’s 10 Rules for Success – Evan Carmichael (YouTube)
   A visual summary of her principles for living a successful, empowered life.
   

Reflection Tools:

1. Values Clarification Worksheet – TherapistAid.com
   A free printable to help you discover your core values and align your daily life with them.

2. Personal Journal Prompt:
   “What does success look like for me if no one else is watching?”
   (Use this for weekly reflection.)