
Do what you feel in your heart to be right – for you’ll be criticized anyway. — Eleanor Roosevelt
—What lingers after this line?
Inner Guidance
This quote encourages individuals to trust their own judgment and instincts when making decisions. It suggests that one should prioritize their own convictions over external opinions.
Inevitability of Criticism
Eleanor Roosevelt highlights that no matter what actions one takes, there will always be critics. Hence, it is better to face criticism for something you truly believe in rather than conform to others' expectations.
Courage and Authenticity
It promotes the idea of living authentically and courageously. By doing what feels right in your heart, you are being true to yourself, which is more valuable than avoiding criticism.
Empowerment
The quote empowers people to take control of their own lives and decisions. It encourages individuals to feel confident in their choices, knowing that criticism is part of life, regardless of what they decide.
Historical Context
Eleanor Roosevelt, a notable American political figure and First Lady, was known for her strong advocacy for human rights and social justice. Her words often reflected her belief in the importance of individual integrity and moral courage.
Recommended Reading
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
One-minute reflection
Where does this idea show up in your life right now?
Related Quotes
6 selectedTo see what is right and not do it is want of courage. — Confucius
Confucius
This quote emphasizes the duty individuals have to act upon their understanding of what is right. Recognizing justice and failing to advocate for it reflects a lack of moral responsibility.
Read full interpretation →It is a rare and ethical thing to be a person who is willing to be changed. — Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong frames openness to transformation as both uncommon and ethically charged, suggesting that character is not merely what we defend but what we are willing to revise. In this view, the “rare” person is not the o...
Read full interpretation →Integrity is choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun. — Brené Brown
Brené Brown
Brené Brown frames integrity not as a fixed trait but as a sequence of decisions made in real time. Rather than asking whether someone “has” integrity, her line invites a more practical question: what do you choose when...
Read full interpretation →Keep a quiet hope alive and let it guide the brave choices you make. — Anne Frank
Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s line begins with a surprising premise: hope can be quiet. Instead of the loud optimism that denies fear or hardship, she points to a steadier inner posture—something you keep alive privately, even when circu...
Read full interpretation →A single act of truth can topple the tallest doubt. — Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy
Tolstoy’s line treats truth not as a static possession but as an event—“a single act”—that moves through the world with consequence. Doubt, in contrast, is depicted like a towering structure: impressive, persistent, and...
Read full interpretation →Stand where truth is thin and refill it with courage. — James Baldwin
James Baldwin
Baldwin’s image of “truth” being “thin” begins with a frank admission: in many moments—public, private, historical—what passes for truth can feel fragile, diluted, or evasive. Thin truth is not necessarily an outright li...
Read full interpretation →More From Author
More from Eleanor Roosevelt →The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt
This quote highlights the importance of having a strong belief in one's dreams. Believing in the beauty and possibility of your dreams is the first step towards turning them into reality.
Read full interpretation →The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt
This quote emphasizes that belief in one's dreams is a crucial driving force. It suggests that faith in personal aspirations can shape and determine future success.
Read full interpretation →With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts. — Eleanor Roosevelt
This quote emphasizes the idea that each new day brings an opportunity for renewal and rejuvenation. It suggests that we have the inherent resilience to face new challenges with fresh energy and perspective.
Read full interpretation →Do one thing every day that scares you. — Eleanor Roosevelt
Confronting fears pushes you out of your comfort zone, promoting personal development. Each new challenge can lead to new skills, increased confidence, and a broader perspective on life.
Read full interpretation →