Dr Maya Angelou, a distinct civil rights activist, renowned writer, singer and poet, was a phenomenal woman who made her mark in the world. While she may be gone, her legacy leaves on, touching millions of lives and generations yet to come. In honor of what would have been her 90th birthday, we’ll be sharing a few of her wise words that are guaranteed to rev you up for success.

“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”

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“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”

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“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”

“Nothing will work unless you do.”

Image C/O Moneta Sleet, Jr./ Ebony Collection via AP Images

“The need for change bulldozed a road down the center of my mind.”

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“Whatever you want to do, if you want to be great at it, you have to love it and be able to make sacrifices for it.”

“Nothing succeeds like success. Get a little success, and then just get a little more.”