Choices Quote by Nikki Giovanni
““Choices If i can't do what i want to do then my job is to not do what i don't want to do It's not the same thing but it's the best i can do If i can't have what i want . . . then my job is to want what i've got and be satisfied that at least there is something more to want Since i can't go where i need to go . . . then i must . . . go where the signs point through always understanding parallel movement isn't lateral When i can't express what i really feel i practice feeling what i can express and none of it is equal I know but that's why mankind alone among the animals learns to cry””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Choices” (spoken word), 2010s
The poem explores coping with limitations by reframing desires, embracing acceptance, and finding creative expression despite constraints.
In simple terms: Accept limits, reshape wants, and express within bounds.
Key Takeaway
Adapt mindset to find fulfillment despite constraints.
Themes
acceptance
choice
resilience
creativity
human nature
Mood
introspective
hopeful
Type
poetic
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- mental health counseling
- creative writing workshops
Key Concepts
psychology of desire
adaptive coping
expressive arts
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal constraints can you reframe positively?
- How does expressing limited feelings foster growth?
A Different Perspective
The approach may ignore systemic barriers that limit true choice.
![“You can always care [about what others think]. You probably always will care. But don't let it dictate your choices and what you want and what you want to accomplish and who you want to be. Don't let anyone get in the way of that. That's being yourself.” quote by Jenna Marbles](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/228/jenna-marbles-11574_accomplish_you-can-always-care-about-what-others-th_1038356.jpg)
![“I just think she was a wonderful woman. What I think of when I think of Nina [Simone] is someone that I could relate to, who didn't want anything from me, that could relate to me because I didn't want anything from her. It was nice.” quote by Nikki Giovanni](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4d5/nikki-giovanni-1757_holiday_i-just-think-she-was-a-wonderful-woman-w_31454.jpg)
![“[To become a poet] The most important thing is to pay attention. The next would probably be to read; it's so important to pay attention. It keeps you from being bored, and I might add it keeps you from being boorish.” quote by Nikki Giovanni](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/27b/nikki-giovanni-1757_add_to-become-a-poet-the-most-important-thin_189198.jpg)
