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Whether it is in our personal relationships or out in the world of business, many of us have a hard time standing up for ourselves. And not speaking our hearts and minds goes beyond just learning to live with that “Welcome mat” on your back from getting walked on, that nagging feeling inside when we constantly let things go is our inner guidance system reminding us that speaking our truth is a crucial part of living authentically.
It’s hard enough to dig deep down inside to be honest with our needs, wants, and desires, but finding the strength to ask … or even TELL the world what those are to get them is a huge step that has to be taken.
The first question you have to ask is why aren’t you standing up for yourself? More often than not it’s fear. In your personal life it could be fear of what other people will think, what they will say, fear of failure, rejection, fear of not being loved or accepted. Professionally, in this market, it may be fear of losing a job with no replacement. In both cases it can be even harder for women as we have been taught to keep the peace and we have a desire to have people want and accept us.
Overcoming fear, it’s easier said than done right? Actually it is in this case if you realize first and foremost that you matter. This is a very important truth we need to believe for every situation, that our thoughts and opinions do matter. We also need to understand that the right people will accept what you have to say.
With the fear out of the way, how do you speak up to get what you want? Or even speak up to get what you need? For so many of us that is the stumbling block that is keeping us from achieving our beautiful lives.
When speaking up for yourself the best things to be mindful of are your words, tone, and the emotions that we put behind our words. It doesn’t take volume or anger to be heard, especially if you don’t wait for the volcano to blow. As a matter of fact, the saying what you need to in a controlled way, is a way to get you truly heard.
If you want to read Michelle's article, click here.
