I was having exactly the same thoughts, after a while when I rambled about certain political or social problems I consider important. How far can one go without pissing into someone else pool when you usually speak the way you think and think the way you speak ?

If you say self-control instead of censorship, it makes more sense. It’s not that you limit yourself, it’s that you exercise discretion when speaking and doing.

Self expression is important, but our society puts emphasis on it to a fault. There is a time and a place for all; the internet(s) make it all too easy to make that time now and that place global.

And the Chapelle’s show reference is solid. Go watch.

You work in a field where new concepts are constantly embraced and you publish in a medium (blogging) that historically has favored the little guy over established corporate interests. I don’t think it’s that far-fetched.

When keeping it real goes wrong.

Sometimes you have to hold back just a tiny little bit…but for the most part screw it. If you can’t accept what or who I am then I do not want anything to do with you to begin with. Just keep it real…but not too real.

Keep it reality TV show real.

I’ve written about many controversial topics. I’m always laid back online and I’ve definitely written my share of personal things, but I’ve always managed to gain the respect of my readers.

It’s hard to get the door open if there is no respect. If you feel those you interact with respect you, then you’re doing good. :)

To answer your question: I will never change who I am (meaning sacrifice my morals or ethics) but there are times when a compromise needs to be made.

That’s always a possibility, but that answer also depends on the business you’re in and your personality type. For example, if flexible isn’t part of your personality you’re not going to do well with any service-based business where clients want you to bend over backwards for them. With personality traits running that deep though, the question should probably be “Am I in the right business?” rather than “How should I change to get more business?”.

Some personality traits are easy and even desirable for one to fix and that’s fine. If the trait is an integral part of who you are though you should be working in an industry where those deep traits are desirable.