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If you’ve ever been told to “be quiet,” “don’t rock the boat,” or “just go along with it,” you know how hard it can be to own your voice. Maybe you’ve felt silenced at work, in relationships, or even within yourself - like your thoughts, feelings, and opinions don’t matter or won’t be heard. But here’s the truth: your voice is your greatest superpower. It’s the key to your freedom, your boundaries, your confidence, and your impact. In this post, I’m going to show you why using your voice is more important than you think and why learning to speak up when something suits you or doesn’t work is the game changer you’ve been waiting for. The Power of your VoiceYour voice is more than just the sound you make when you talk. It’s your unique expression of who you are - your values, your needs, your truth. When you speak up, you’re claiming your space in the world. You’re showing up as your authentic self and demanding respect. Think about it: every movement for change in history started because someone used their voice. Women’s suffrage, civil rights, mental health advocacy - all born from people saying, “This isn’t right,” or “I deserve better.” When you don’t speak up, your ideas, your needs, and your power stay locked inside. You might feel invisible or stuck, watching others take the lead or make decisions that affect you (and that you don’t like). Speaking up when Something Works for YouIt’s just as important to use your voice to say yes as it is to say no. Speaking up about what serves you helps you build a life and career aligned with your values and desires. When you clearly express what you want, you: • Attract opportunities that truly fit your goals; • Build deeper, more authentic relationships; • Reinforce your sense of self-worth; • Inspire others to do the same. For example, saying “I’m interested in that project” or “I’d love to collaborate” signals confidence and clarity. It opens doors and creates space for you to grow. The more you practice speaking up for what lights you up, the stronger your voice becomes. Speaking Up when Something Doesn’t WorkJust as powerful as saying yes is saying no and this is where many women struggle. We’ve been conditioned to be people-pleasers, to avoid conflict, and to prioritise others’ comfort over our own needs. But learning to say no is an act of self-respect and survival. When you say no to things that don’t serve you - whether it’s a toxic work environment, an unhealthy relationship, or a draining obligation - you protect your time, energy, and mental health. You draw boundaries that keep you safe and sane. Remember: saying no isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. It’s what 7-figure CEOs and high achievers do consistently to protect their time and sanity and stay focused on what matters. They don’t hustle harder; they hustle smarter by choosing where to invest their energy. Why so many Women Stay Silent (and How to Break Free)Silencing yourself feels “safe” in the moment because it avoids immediate conflict or discomfort. But over time, it builds resentment, self-doubt, and burnout. It chips away at your confidence and sense of agency. If you’ve been silenced, whether by others or your own fears, know this: • Your voice deserves to be heard; • Your thoughts and feelings are valid; • You have a right to express your boundaries and desires; • Speaking up is an act of courage and reclaiming power. Breaking free from silence starts small. Practise in low-stakes situations: express a preference, share your opinion, or say no to something minor. Notice how it feels, and let that build your confidence. Your Voice Creates Change - for You and OthersWhen you speak up, you’re not just changing your own life, you’re inspiring others to do the same. Your courage builds community, shifts culture, and can even change systems. It’s why I decided to share my personal mental health story with you. Imagine a workplace where women freely speak their minds. Imagine a family where everyone’s needs are respected. Imagine a society where silence isn’t the norm, but authenticity is. Your voice can be the catalyst for all of that. Practical Tips to Start Using your Voice1. Get clear on your values and needs. What matters most to you? What feels right or wrong? Write these down. 2. Start small. Say yes or no to everyday things with intention. 3. Practice assertive language. Use “I” statements like “I feel,” “I need,” or “I want.” It’s harder for people to tell you you’re “wrong” if you’re clearly expressing an opinion. 4. Prepare and rehearse. If speaking up feels scary, practise what you want to say beforehand. 5. Trust your feelings. If something doesn’t sit right, that’s your inner voice telling you to speak up. 6. Seek support. Find friends, mentors, or coaches who encourage your voice. 7. Celebrate every win. Every time you use your voice, you build power. Acknowledge that. Your Voice is your SuperpowerYou’ve survived being silenced, dismissed, or ignored, but now it’s time to thrive. Your voice is the most potent tool you have to shape your life, protect your boundaries, and make the impact only you can make. Speak up for what serves you. Speak up when something doesn’t work. Use your voice boldly, authentically, and unapologetically. The world needs your truth and you deserve to be heard. BONUS: Challenge Yourself to Use Your Voice in these Common Situations1. If you're in a restaurant and there’s a problem with your food, send the dish back.
2. The next time you are asked to work overtime or take on an extra responsibility you don’t have time for, give a polite but firm “no”. 3. Speak up in a group chat or meeting – even if it’s just to say you agree with someone else’s point. 4. Say no to an invitation or request from friends that you don’t have time for. 5. Start a conversation with a stranger – at the bus stop or in the supermarket. Want the key to saying “no” with grace (and without sounding like a b***h)? Grab my free PDF which gives you 20 Different Ways to Say No, Speak Up and Ask for What you Need.
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AUTHOREmma Rowland-Elsen is a veteran choral conductor, sound-voice therapist and specialist consultant in choir inclusion and mental health. She also has PTSD. With over a decade of experience in trauma-informed leadership, vocal health and community music, she helps choirs build emotionally-intelligent, accessible, mentally-healthy and artistically-vibrant spaces, for every mind, body and voice. CATEGORIES
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