Got something to say?
Are you frustrated, concerned, alarmed? About anything? Anything at all?
Then, like my Dad would say when I was just a little shaver, “Don’t be shy, Laurie Jean! Speak up!”
Easy enough for him to say (I’d think)! He’s not the one to suffer the ramifications if I put my foot in my mouth! I’m the one who will turn purple, suffer the dirty looks, feel the subtle signs of disapproval, retaliation and even public shunning!
Okay, perhaps I’m going a bit too far, but it feels that way sometimes, doesn’t it? You KNOW there’s something that needs to be said, but you’re not sure HOW to do it, WHEN to do it or whether it will do any good in the long run!
Right?
So to help you tackle this dilemma, here are reasons WHY it’s important to raise your voice respectfully and make your opinions known:
- Because you have more influence with others than you might expect
- Because your willingness to speak up with give others courage to do the same
- Because you are in a leadership role and people are looking to you to TAKE the lead and do the right thing
- Because your credibility depends on it
- Because if not you, then who?
- Because your viewpoint is unique and born of your experiences – something no one else can offer!
- Because if you don’t, you’ll be cheating your team, your community, professional association, school or district out of your insights and wisdom
- Because you need the practice. Let’s face it, this is not an easy thing to do and it doesn’t always come naturally. You become a better leader and a much more confident person once you put those “pipes” to work!
- Because it will help you think “out loud”. Many of us need to hear ourselves talk (some more than others! haha!) to refine our thoughts.
- To test your ideas, concepts and opinions out on others to see how they are received.
- Because your ideas may need a little tweaking. Perhaps others can shed some light on your way of thinking or add information to help you craft your message in a more effective manner.
- Because it’s high time
- Because no one else will
- Because it could save lives, save money, avoid embarrassment or build consensus
- Because throwing that pillow at your TV is eventually going to cost you some money
- Because people you admire are doing it
- Because your team, church, school, neighborhood, family, board, association and our nation depends on it!
Does that help?
Next, we’ll discuss HOW to raise an issue respectfully, speak up, share your knowledge and make your opinions known in ways that create constructive outcomes!
Warm regards,
Laura, writing from my Colorado cabin at 7200 ft. above sea level
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” –Dr. Seuss
