Why Authentic Courage Creates Permission Spaces - And How to Find Your Voice
In a world that feels increasingly volatile, using your voice can be terrifying. Yet it's precisely these moments that call for courageous leadership.
That's why I was eager to catch up with Amanda Day, co-owner of Hay Day Services and one of GPA's Distinguished Fellows. Amanda participated in a courageous leadership program I facilitated, where she defined her call to courage simply yet powerfully: "Using my voice."
The Surprising Truth About Speaking Up
This might surprise those familiar with Amanda, who co-hosts the weekly Fundraising HayDay podcast. Despite her established credentials and public platform, Amanda felt called to be braver in expressing her true opinions—especially in situations that felt risky.
"I've always been that straight-A student," Amanda shares. "I worried about what others might think or say... I rarely spoke up about my thoughts because I never wanted to make somebody mad."
Here's the crucial distinction: Amanda was already comfortable sharing knowledge and expertise, but she hesitated to voice opinions that might challenge the status quo.
Many professionals face this same challenge. We can talk about facts and procedures all day, but expressing controversial opinions? That's where courage is required.
Moving Beyond Safe Knowledge Sharing
As Amanda puts it: "I could talk about [grant rules] all day long, but those aren't controversial... This is about saying, 'Here's the rule, but here's why it's problematic. And here's why we need to make a stand and try to change it.'"
This shift from sharing safe information to expressing authentic perspectives—that's where real leadership begins.
The Ripple Effect of Authentic Courage
Here's what I've learned from watching leaders like Amanda step into their voice: Authentic courage creates permission spaces.
When we witness someone step into vulnerability, it makes our own brave actions feel more possible. One person's courage becomes a catalyst for collective transformation.
Amanda's willingness to move beyond people-pleasing didn't just change her leadership—it gave others permission to find their own voices too.
Finding Your Voice: What It Really Means
Finding your voice isn't necessarily about public speaking or being louder. It's about:
Speaking truth even when it's uncomfortable
Challenging systems that no longer serve
Expressing opinions that might not be popular
Taking stands for what you believe matters
Creating space for difficult conversations
Practical Steps to Use Your Voice More Courageously
Start small: Practice expressing opinions in low-stakes situations
Get curious: Ask yourself, "What am I not saying that needs to be said?"
Focus on impact: Remember that your perspective matters and can create positive change
Accept discomfort: Growth feels uncomfortable—that's normal
Build support: Find people who encourage your authentic voice
Your Permission to Speak Up
Maybe you're like Amanda—comfortable with expertise but hesitant to express controversial opinions. Maybe you worry about making people mad or being judged.
Here's your permission: Your voice matters. Your perspective has value. The world needs leaders willing to speak truth, challenge systems, and create change.
Reflection questions:
Where are you holding back your true opinions?
What needs to be said in your sphere of influence?
How might your courage give others permission to be brave?
What would become possible if you trusted your voice?
Remember: When you step into vulnerability and use your voice authentically, you don't just change your own leadership—you create ripples of possibility for everyone around you.
The question isn't whether you have something important to say. The question is whether you'll give yourself permission to say it.
What's one thing you've been afraid to voice that could create positive change?
Trust yourself. Your voice matters.