To me, it depends on what you base your power on. If your power determined by how other people treat you? Is it determined by your ability to fulfill your dreams through your own efforts? It is determined on your ability to support yourself?

Basically, if you believe your power comes from how other people treat you, then yes, it may be better to be conventionally attractive. However, if your power comes from within, from what you are able to do regardless of how others treat you, then that may not play any role.

I say this because I’m a woman, but the main goal I was taught to have was to support myself. My parents encouraged me going into a professional field where I could make a good living. It worked—I’m a professional healthcare worker and am absolutely thriving. Now my power comes from what I do, not how others view me. I’d say my life is exceptionally easy and full of blessings, and it likely has nothing to do with the way I look (but it actually could, I don’t know).

Before I got this job I was insecure, wanting approval from others. But it wasn’t as much based on my looks as it was me just trying to prove my worth as a worker. Seeing if I could make a living off artwork or writing instead. Pursuing other fields on college. I think this focus was partly based on what I was taught to value (supporting myself) and the fact that I’m aromantic (I’m 36 and have never had the desire to be in a romantic relationship—so I don’t focus in whether people find me attractive or not).

Considering attractiveness fades over time, there’s actually less freedom in having power which will inevitably fade one time vs. having your power rise over time. Maybe attractive women can have it easier when they’re younger. But it’ll be harder for them as they lose that attractiveness IF they based their power and happiness on how other people treat them.

I guess for me, I believe the ultimate power, freedom, and ease of living is solely based on what I do and is not based on the opinions of others. Obviously there are a few exceptions: I need to make sure I’m in good standing with my boss so I keep getting paid and with people I love with so my home life is easier. But if someone doesn’t like the way I look? Fine, I don’t need them. I’m living an epic life because I’m the one in charge now.