Never Make Someone A Priority When All You Are To Them Is

Never Make Someone A Priority When All You Are To Them Is Graphic © inspirationpowerboost.com

Priorities and Options

Maya Angelou, the renowned poet and civil rights activist, once said, “Never make someone a priority when all you are to them is an option.” This powerful statement carries a profound message about self-worth, relationships, and the importance of valuing oneself.

Far too often, people find themselves investing their time, energy, and emotions into relationships where they are not appreciated or valued. They prioritize the needs and wants of others while neglecting their own, hoping that their efforts will be reciprocated. However, when they realize that they are merely an option to the other person, the heartbreak and disappointment can be devastating.

The truth is, we all deserve to be treated with respect, love, and appreciation. We should surround ourselves with people who recognize our worth and make us a priority in their lives. This doesn’t mean demanding constant attention or being self-centered, but rather, it’s about establishing healthy boundaries and expectations in our relationships.

When we allow ourselves to be treated as an option, we diminish our own value and self-esteem. We send a message that we are willing to accept crumbs of affection and attention, rather than the full, genuine love we deserve. This can lead to a cycle of unfulfilling relationships and a constant search for validation from others.

To break free from this pattern, we must first learn to prioritize ourselves. This means taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being, pursuing our passions and goals, and surrounding ourselves with people who lift us up and support our growth. When we have a strong sense of self and a healthy level of self-love, we are less likely to settle for being someone’s option.

Furthermore, it’s essential to communicate our needs and expectations clearly in our relationships. If we find ourselves consistently being treated as an afterthought or a backup plan, it’s time to have an honest conversation with the other person. If they are unwilling or unable to make us a priority, it may be necessary to reevaluate the relationship and consider moving on.

Life is too short to waste on people who don’t appreciate and value us. By prioritizing ourselves and surrounding ourselves with those who treat us with the love and respect we deserve, we open the door to more fulfilling, meaningful relationships. Remember, you are not an option – you are a priority, and you deserve to be treated as such.

The Life and Legacy of Maya Angelou

The powerful quote that inspired this article comes from Maya Angelou, a remarkable woman whose life and work have left an indelible mark on the world. Born in 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri, Angelou faced numerous challenges and adversities throughout her life, but she rose above them with unwavering strength and resilience.

Angelou’s childhood was marked by trauma and discrimination, but she found solace in literature and the written word. She became a renowned poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, using her pen as a tool for social change and empowerment. Her seminal work, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” a coming-of-age autobiography, shed light on the harsh realities of racism and sexual abuse, and became an enduring classic.

Throughout her career, Angelou’s words resonated with millions, inspiring people across generations and backgrounds. She fearlessly tackled difficult topics, such as identity, oppression, and the human experience, with honesty and grace. Her poems, like “Phenomenal Woman” and “Still I Rise,” became anthems of self-love and resilience, empowering women and marginalized communities to embrace their worth and stand tall in the face of adversity.

Beyond her literary achievements, Angelou was a trailblazer in many ways. She worked as a journalist, an educator, and even served as a coordinator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, alongside leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to social justice made her an iconic figure in the civil rights movement.

Angelou’s legacy extends far beyond her written works. She was a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a champion of human dignity. Her words continue to resonate, reminding us to never settle for being an option, but to always strive to be a priority – in our relationships, our pursuits, and our lives.

As we celebrate the life and contributions of Maya Angelou, let us be inspired by her unwavering spirit, her courage, and her unwavering belief in the power of self-love and self-worth. Her message reminds us that we are all worthy of being treated with respect, love, and appreciation, and that we should never compromise our values or settle for less than we deserve.

Related Inspirational Quotes

“Don’t be afraid of enemies who attack you. Be afraid of the friends who flatter you.” – Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

“Never lower your standards for someone who refuses to rise up to them.” – Anon.