20 Maya Angelou Quotes to Uplift and Inspire You
Updated: Dec. 06, 2021
Let these words from the beloved poet and civil rights activist embolden you.
She knows why the caged bird sings
We all know that Maya Angelou was an American national treasure. Her creative and activist work has been deeply important for Black Americans, as well as hugely impactful on American culture as a whole. She was a true Renaissance woman, with a career spanning over 50 years that included amazing achievements in nearly every art form. Maya Angelou always forged her own path with wisdom and grace, and this list of her most moving quotes will inspire you to do the same. And for moments when you need a little pre-caffeine motivation, these 50 morning quotes will help you wake up inspired.
Shine a little light
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” —Maya Angelou
To spread positivity everywhere you go, you need these happiness quotes.
Finding your own path
“Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told, ‘I’m with you, kid. Let’s go.’” —Maya Angelou
Realizing your dreams
“Nothing will work unless you do.” —Maya Angelou
These quotes from amazing women who changed history will get you feeling fired up.
First impressions
“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
They say wisdom comes with age, but you can get a jump on it with these wise quotes.
Being resourceful
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” —Maya Angelou
Check out more of the best quotes from famous people you certainly won’t forget.
Protecting yourself
“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” —Maya Angelou
Sometimes, people just aren’t who you want them to be. These relationship quotes will help you after any breakup.
Cultivating kindness
“If we lose love and self respect for each other, this is how we finally die.” —Maya Angelou
Get your good feelings flowing with these beautiful gratitude quotes.
Staying determined
“We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” —Maya Angelou
These Walt Disney quotes will help you find your inner strength.
Living with meaning
“I’ve learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life.” —Maya Angelou
Choosing courage
“One isn’t necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.” —Maya Angelou
These life-changing quotes are there for you when you need some extra wisdom.
Embracing possibility
“Lift up your hearts. Each new hour holds new chances for new beginnings.” —Maya Angelou
Inner strength
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” —Maya Angelou
Respecting the process
“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” —Maya Angelou
Knowing your worth
“Never make someone a priority when all you are to them is an option.” —Maya Angelou
Staying grounded
“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.” —Maya Angelou
Laughter really is the best medicine. Get your daily dose with these hilarious quotes.
Practicing self care
“If I am not good to myself, how can I expect anyone else to be good to me?” —Maya Angelou
Keeping balanced
“Seek patience and passion in equal amounts. Patience alone will not build the temple. Passion alone will destroy its walls.” —Maya Angelou
Speaking your truth
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” —Maya Angelou
The power of love
“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” —Maya Angelou
Love comes in all forms. These best friend quotes will make you feel all warm and fuzzy.
Never stop learning
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” —Maya Angelou
Love to read? Bookworms will enjoy these reading quotes—they’re real page-turners.
