This quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, “Never allow a person to tell you no who doesn’t have the power to say yes,” is a powerful statement about discernment and self-empowerment. It essentially suggests that one should not let their aspirations, decisions, or actions be hindered by individuals who lack the authority or capacity to enable or validate them in the first place.

The ‘power to say yes’ implies a position of influence, authority, or expertise. It suggests that the person has the ability to grant approval, permission, or to make things happen. Conversely, if someone does not have this power, their disapproval or negative response should not be given undue weight or let it derail one’s plans or diminish one’s self-confidence.

Applying this quote to today’s world, it could be seen in various contexts such as in professional settings, personal relationships, or individual pursuits. For instance, in a professional context, if an employee has an innovative idea, they should seek approval or feedback from someone in a position to implement it, such as a manager or a department head, rather than being discouraged by colleagues who may not understand its potential.

In the realm of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to seek advice and validation from reliable and authoritative sources – people who are knowledgeable, experienced, or have demonstrated success in the areas we aspire to grow in. It suggests the importance of discerning whose opinions to value and whose to disregard, particularly in a world where everyone has a platform to voice their views, thanks to social media.

In conclusion, Roosevelt’s quote is a call to empower oneself by discerning whose feedback or approval matters, and not to be deterred by naysayers who lack the authority or credibility to influence our decisions or actions. It is a timeless piece of wisdom that encourages resilience, ambition, and self-belief in the face of criticism or negativity.