I recently came across a list of amazing quotes by acclaimed American poet, storyteller, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou. Since I often write blogs discussing the importance of gratitude and mindset in our personal and professional lives, I found it to be a treasure trove of inspiration. I will be highlighting a few of my favorite quotes in the months ahead, and I encourage you to share with me the philosophies and quotes that guide your life.  

“Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.”

We can never fully know the experiences of others. Obviously we would like the benefit of the doubt when we are having a hard day, so offer the same to those you come across – whether it’s a cranky barista, rude driver, snippy co-worker, or inattentive family member.

Can you think of a time when you were able to turn someone’s day around? Or a time when someone was the rainbow in your cloud?

This article is one in a series discussing the importance of gratitude in our personal and professional lives, the benefits of routinely recognizing the good things in our lives, appreciating others who have helped us, practicing gratitude, saying thank you, trying a complaint-free day, taking a gratitude walk, improving attitude, handling difficult situations, and recognizing fresh starts.