I often come back to this simple but powerful equation:

[be brave] + [be real] + [be true] = [be you]

It’s the foundation of so much of my coaching work, especially for self-conscious professionals who feel stuck between wanting to show up more confidently and fearing judgment, conflict, or not being “enough.” When we’re not sure what to say, how to say it, or whether it’s even okay to take up space, we need something to anchor us.

That anchor, for me, is truth.

In a breakfast gathering recently, someone asked:

“What’s the question or principle you return to when things are rough, when you need to make a tough decision?”

My answer was initially, Integrity, and then I added Truth.

Not the flashy kind. Not the kind that needs to convince or defend itself. But the kind that stands, quietly and unwavering, even when everything else feels uncertain.

And it reminded me of a poem by Muhammad Ali, which I first found from a clip where he just rattled it off without even looking at a page.

The Face of Truth

(by Muhammad Ali)

The face of truth is open,
The eyes of truth are bright,
The lips of truth are ever closed,
The head of truth is upright.

The breast of truth stands forward,
The gaze of truth is straight,
Truth has neither fear nor doubt,
Truth has patience to wait.

The words of truth are touching,
The voice of truth is deep,
The law of truth is simple:
All that you sow you reap.

The soul of truth is flaming,
The heart of truth is warm,
The mind of truth is clear,
And firm through rain or storm.

Facts are but its shadows,
Truth stands above all sin;
Great be the battle in life,
Truth in the end shall win.

The image of truth is Christ,
Wisdom’s message its rod;
Sign of truth is the cross,
Soul of truth is God.

Life of truth is eternal,
Immortal is its past,
Power of truth will endure,
Truth shall hold to the last.

Truth Doesn’t Shout. It Stands.

There’s something deeply grounding in this poem. A reminder that being true doesn’t mean being perfect. It doesn’t mean being the loudest voice in the room. It’s not about proving yourself.

It’s about alignment.

  • With your values.
  • With your integrity.
  • With who you are when no one’s watching.

And this matters so much when it comes to courageous conversations. Because being able to speak up, to share your truth, to navigate conflict or ask for what you need, that’s not just a communication skill.

It’s a courage practice.
And it starts with being true to you.

What’s Your Equation?

When life gets noisy (when it’s rough, or fear creeps in, or when people-pleasing pulls you off course) what’s the equation or principle you return to?

Maybe it’s a quote.
A question.
A grounding phrase that brings you home to yourself.

Whatever it is, hold it close. Let it guide you. Let it remind you that your voice matters, not because it’s perfect, but because it’s real.

Want to Practice Being More Courageous?

If you’re ready to start speaking up more clearly, calmly, and courageously (without regret) I’ve put together a free guide to help you:

👉 7 Top Tips for More Courageous Conversations
It’s full of mindset shifts and practical tools you can start using immediately.

Sign up here to get your copy now.

And remember:
You don’t have to be loud to be powerful.
You just have to be true.