“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”. Source
This profound statement from Maya Angelou redefines success entirely. It moves the goalposts from external validation to internal fulfillment. In a world often obsessed with titles, salaries, and accolades, her wisdom offers a more sustainable path to happiness. Consequently, true success is not a destination you arrive at. Instead, it is a way of living you cultivate daily. This philosophy rests on three powerful pillars. Each one builds upon the last, creating a strong foundation for a genuinely successful life. Let’s explore how you can integrate this mindset into your own journey.
. Maya Angelou – Academy of Achievement
The Foundation: Learning to Like Yourself
The first step on this path is perhaps the most challenging. Liking yourself means embracing who you are, flaws and all. It requires deep self-acceptance and compassion. Many people struggle with negative self-talk and harsh inner critics. However, you can actively change this narrative. Start by practicing mindfulness. This practice helps you observe your thoughts without judgment. You can then consciously replace critical thoughts with kinder, more supportive ones.
Furthermore, self-compassion is a critical skill in this process. It involves treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a good friend. Research shows that self-compassion leads to greater emotional resilience. . For example, when you make a mistake, avoid berating yourself. Instead, acknowledge the error, learn from it, and gently encourage yourself to do better next time. Celebrating small victories also reinforces self-worth. This builds a positive feedback loop that strengthens your ability to genuinely like the person you are. Source
Finding Purpose: Liking What You Do
Once you begin to accept yourself, you can focus on what you do. This pillar is not just about your career. It encompasses your hobbies, your relationships, and how you spend your time. Liking what you do means finding joy and purpose in your daily activities. It involves aligning your actions with your core values. When your work feels meaningful, it ceases to be a chore. Instead, it becomes a source of energy and satisfaction.
To discover what you truly enjoy, you must explore. Try new hobbies or take a class in a subject that sparks your curiosity. You can also keep a journal to reflect on what activities make you feel most alive and engaged. Unfortunately, many people feel disconnected from their work. A lack of purpose is a primary driver of job dissatisfaction. This disconnection often leads to burnout and unhappiness. By identifying your passions, you can start making small shifts. You could volunteer for a cause you believe in or find ways to integrate your interests into your current job. Ultimately, every step toward purpose-driven action makes a significant difference.
Cultivating Excellence: Liking How You Do It
The final pillar ties everything together. Liking how you do things is about embracing the process with integrity and pride. It is about bringing your best self to every task, no matter how small. This means working with intention, focus, and a commitment to excellence. For instance, you could be a barista who takes immense pride in crafting the perfect latte. Or you might be a parent who approaches daily routines with patience and love. The specific task matters less than the care and mindfulness you bring to it.
To cultivate this mindset, focus on process-oriented goals. Instead of only aiming for a specific outcome, celebrate the effort and dedication you apply along the way. Create routines that support your well-being and productivity. This allows you to approach your work from a place of strength, not stress. Moreover, practicing gratitude for the journey itself can transform your perspective. Challenges become opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. When you take pride in your methods and your effort, you find deep satisfaction in the work itself, which is the essence of liking how you do it.
Your Path to True Fulfillment
In summary, Maya Angelou’s definition of success offers a powerful blueprint for a fulfilling life. It begins with the foundational work of self-acceptance. From there, it expands into finding joy and purpose in your daily activities. Finally, it culminates in taking pride in the way you navigate your journey. This holistic approach shifts the focus from external achievements to internal contentment.
Therefore, your path to fulfillment is not a race against others. It is a personal journey of discovery and growth. Start today by taking one small step. Practice a moment of self-compassion. Identify one activity that brings you joy. Or, approach a simple task with newfound intention. By consistently nurturing these three pillars, you will build a life that is not just successful by society’s standards, but is also deeply and truly your own.