Eleanor Roosevelt: 'Do what you feel in your heart to be right- for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't.'

Do what you feel in your heart to be right- for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't.

In Eleanor Roosevelt's famous quote, "Do what you feel in your heart to be right- for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't," she encapsulates the universal struggle of navigating through life's choices. The quote suggests that no matter what decision we make, there will always be criticism and judgment from others, leaving us in a metaphorical state of being "damned." This thought-provoking statement by one of history's most influential women highlights the importance of following our own convictions, regardless of the opinions of others.At face value, Roosevelt's quote reminds us of the constant scrutiny and condemnation we may face when striving to stay true to ourselves. It emphasizes the notion that no matter the path we choose, someone will always find fault in our actions. So often, we let the fear of being criticized hinder our progress and cloud our judgment, leading us away from the choices that align with our innermost beliefs and values. Eleanor Roosevelt encourages us to have the courage and strength to listen to our own hearts, rather than becoming entangled in the opinions of others that hold little significance to our personal growth and well-being.However, beyond the straightforward meaning of this quote lies a deeper philosophical concept that can further enhance our understanding. This concept can be related to the philosophical theory of existentialism, which explores the individual's struggle to find meaning and authenticity in a world filled with uncertainty and criticism.Existentialism proposes that we are responsible for creating our own meaning and purpose in life. In the context of Roosevelt's quote, it is the responsibility of each individual to determine what feels right in their hearts and act accordingly, regardless of external judgments. The quote aligns with the existentialist notion that we must seek our own truth and forge our own path, accepting that criticism and damnation will often come hand in hand with our decisions.By introducing the concept of existentialism, we can observe the parallels between Roosevelt's quote and the central tenets of this philosophical theory. Both emphasize the importance of individual autonomy and the recognition that external judgment is an inevitable aspect of human existence. In this sense, the quote takes on a broader significance, reminding us that our actions and choices are influenced not only by societal norms and expectations but also by our own personal philosophy and quest for authenticity.In juxtaposing the straightforward meaning of the quote with the philosophical concept of existentialism, we gain a more nuanced understanding of the importance of following our hearts despite the inevitable criticism that may accompany our decisions. It encourages us, as individuals, to reflect on our own values and beliefs, question societal norms, and seek our own truth.In conclusion, Eleanor Roosevelt's insightful quote serves as a powerful reminder that regardless of the decisions we make, criticism and damnation will always be present. By embracing this reality, we can find the courage to act in alignment with our own hearts and convictions. Moreover, the quote's connection to the existentialist philosophy prompts us to explore the deeper meaning of our choices and embrace the responsibility of creating our own authenticity and purpose in life. Ultimately, by living true to ourselves, we can transcend the judgment of others and embark on a journey of personal fulfillment and growth.