Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it – Maya Angelou
This uplifting quote from the renowned poet and civil rights activist invites us to reconsider our typical understanding of success. Rather than measuring success by external markers—like money, fame, or status—Angelou focuses on a more personal, inner fulfillment. Let’s delve into what this quote really means and how we can apply it in our daily lives.
Redefining Success from Within
For many of us, success has long been tied to achieving specific external goals: a prestigious job title, a certain income level, or social recognition. While these achievements can be fulfilling, Maya Angelou’s words remind us that true success starts from within. “Liking yourself” refers to self-acceptance and self-love, which form the foundation for any genuine sense of accomplishment. Without a basic level of self-respect, even the greatest achievements can feel hollow.
Moreover, “liking yourself” is an ongoing journey. It involves recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, forgiving your mistakes, and nurturing a healthy relationship with your own mind and body. This kind of self-awareness paves the way for a more balanced, meaningful approach to work and life.
Finding Joy in What You Do
The second part of Angelou’s quote—“liking what you do”—highlights the importance of passion and authenticity in our pursuits. Whether it’s a job, a hobby, or a creative project, genuine interest in what you’re doing elevates the experience from mere duty to a source of personal satisfaction. When you truly enjoy your work, you are more likely to invest time and effort into mastering it, often resulting in greater achievements and a deeper sense of pride.
However, “liking what you do” does not always mean the activity itself has to be glamorous or exciting. Sometimes, it’s about finding fulfillment in the value your work provides to others, or in the growth opportunities it offers you. By focusing on the positive aspects—learning new skills, contributing to a team, or making a difference—your day-to-day efforts can become more meaningful.
Loving the Process and the Method
Lastly, “liking how you do it” emphasizes the importance of attitude and method. Beyond simply taking pleasure in the end result, we can learn to appreciate the process: the creativity, the problem-solving, and the care we put into our tasks. When we pay attention to how we accomplish our goals—striving for integrity, excellence, and compassion—our work becomes a reflection of our character.
This section of Angelou’s wisdom also reminds us that mindfulness and authenticity in execution matter. Even if we like ourselves and enjoy our work, rushing through tasks or succumbing to negativity can diminish the overall experience. By staying true to our values and applying them consistently, we create a holistic sense of fulfillment that goes far beyond traditional notions of success.
In the end, Maya Angelou’s definition of success reaffirms that it’s a deeply personal journey. By liking who we are, genuinely enjoying our pursuits, and being proud of our methods, we cultivate an enduring sense of happiness and achievement—one that grows from the inside out.
