Praise, approval, and positive feedback is attractive—and addictive. When you have an audience, it’s tempting to bend toward their expectations, to dilute your voice, your truth to earn their approval. We see artists sellout, teachers lower their standards to get better ratings from students, even managers turn a blind eye to things, to stay in the good graces of others. But real power comes from resisting that pull: from staying true to your own voice, even when it’s uncomfortable, unpopular, or unrewarded.

Consider This

James Baldwin never softened his voice to please critics or white audiences. He insisted on telling the truth about race, sexuality, and identity in America, even when it cost him comfort, belonging, or approval. Baldwin’s writing, speeches, and essays were radical for his time, speaking about uncomfortable and taboo topics such as same-sex desire, internalized racism, religion as a tool of oppression, and the intersectionality of identity. 

But his power came from his authenticity, not from the applause or feedback from his audience. His uncompromising commitment to his voice allowed him to speak about truths that others ignored, to challenge norms, and ultimately to become a voice of clarity and courage for others.

Putting It Into Play

Staying true to your voice, vision, and principles may be the most basic act of power we have. It’s the power that comes from being connected to our inner conviction rather than to external validation. And everyday life gives us countless opportunities to practice it:

  • A friend refusing to join in gossip, even when everyone else is participating.
  • An employee telling the truth about a project’s risks rather than sugarcoating for the boss.
  • A journalist refusing to sensationalize a story to attract clicks.
  • A coach prioritizing sportsmanship over winning at all costs.

Allen Ginsberg wrote: “To gain your own voice, forget about having it heard. Become a saint of your own province and your own consciousness.” Whether the world listens is not the point. Rather, it’s about having the courage to speak, act, and lead aligned with your inner truth.