"Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen." - Winston Churchill
Hello everyone, welcome back to my blog. Since I tend to post once a month, this month's topic is about why it is important to raise your voice. Speaking up can be troublesome I must admit, but I have learned not to let my fear of public speaking get in the way. Have you ever wanted to say something, but the words did not quite come out of your mouth because your mind is telling you to go for it, but the feeling in your body is telling you different. We have all been through this situation including me. Do not feel afraid to say no because you as an individual have the power to make your own decisions, so if you do not feel comfortable saying yes, say no.
Here are reasons why it is important to raise your voice. I have been through these situations, so I definitely can relate.
For example, a teacher or professor asks a question. You know the answer or you may think that you know the answer, but you are too afraid to mention it because you think that you will embarrass yourself. If you raise your hand and take that chance to answer the question, you may get the answer right, which is an outstanding accomplishment. Even if you get it wrong, the teacher will acknowledge your participation. Plus, the students in your class were probably thinking what you were thinking, so do not feel bad at all. At least you gave it a shot. Another example, saying no to pre-pressure. I enjoy going to house parties, clubs, and hookah bars because I like the environment, but I do not smoke nor drink. I go so that I could dance the night away, socialize, and take pictures. I have friends that smoke and drink. Sometimes they may offer me an alcoholic drink, but I always say no thank you. My friends are understanding and know that I don't smoke nor drink, but ask me just in case. Even though I say no, they respect my decision and continue to invite me places. True friends will respect any wise decision that you make. If a friend were to continue pre-pressuring you into doing something that you are not comfortable with, then they truly are not your friend. Also, don't feel bad if you realize who your friends are because friends come and go and your dedicated friends will respect and support you no matter what. Lastly, have you ever felt that you were not being treated fairly by your boss at work? You were probably thinking, "Hmm, should I talk to my boss? What should I say? What if I get in trouble or perhaps fired?" Develop the courage and tell your boss how you feel because if you do not, it will take over your mind until the feeling decides to go away. Your boss will not fire you for freedom of speech; your boss is a human being just like you, so they are open for discussion, but be careful how you confront him/her or people in general because you tend to say bad statements or make bad decisions when you are upset or angry. You are not you when you are angry or upset. Speak to your boss in a calm and professional tone. After you have said everything that you needed to say in an open minded manner, your boss may take your suggestion into consideration. Most importantly, the boss will acknowledge your courage because it shows that you are not afraid to speak up when something does not feel right. Employers look for communication skills, interpersonal skills, and honesty/integrity.
