Use your voice.

SPEAK UP WHEN YOU NEED TO.

A popular saying goes, "a closed mouth is a closed destiny." If you have got tangible ideas, creative suggestions, valuable skills, and you have not found a way of expressing yourself, communicating your skills, ideas, and desires you would struggle to make meaningful progress in life. Many people hesitate to speak up for theirself and what they are good at due to fear of failure, disagreement or rejection. You have to acknowledge this fear but, you do not have to let it paralyze you, and deprive you the opportunity for growth.

When you know what you need, and you understand how you feel about those needs, you would develop strategic ways of expressing yourself effectively. You have to reflect properly on those needs, why they are important, and what benefits having them would bring to you. Do not let fear cripple you, in spite of the fear you must keep moving forward, and expressing yourself as best as you can in a clear and definite manner.

Timing can impact how your message is received. Find an appropriate means, and moment to express your thoughts or needs, ensuring both you and the receiver are in the right frame of mind, and environment for such expression. You have to be clear and direct without being aggressive. Ensure you use the right words and statements to express your feelings and needs, this approach fosters understanding. Be open to feedbacks from your listeners. This shows respect for their perspective and creates a more collaborative atmosphere.

Speaking up can help establish and reinforce personal boundaries. Clearly state what is acceptable to you and what is not. If it feels daunting to speak up, consider confiding in a trusted friend who can offer encouragement and help you practice the art. The more you practice speaking up, the more confident you will become. Start with smaller situations and gradually tackle more significant areas as you get better. Your voice matters, use it.

Kamikun John, Author 366 days of wisdom.