Peace

I am a strong believer in one saying; “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Growing up I was raised to avoid unnecessary conflict. I’ve always wondered which hurts more: the regret of saying something you should not have, or the regret of not saying something you should have. I tell myself that there’s always a chance to speak, but after you say something you can’t take it back. I value having a voice, but there’s times where I choose not to speak. Whether it’s due to fear or the avoidance of consequences, there are times when saying something is not the best option.

Speaking up doesn’t come naturally for some people, but I think it’s a skill that can be learned. Oftentimes when I stop myself from saying something, it’s because I’m afraid of hurting somebody else’s feelings. Some people may be timid or anxious; others may simply have poor social skills or feel that others are constantly judging them. Although my tendency of keeping quiet can make me seem compassionate, I still have thoughts of anger and resentment in certain situations. For me, things are easier thought than said.

Not speaking up for myself in certain situations doesn’t mean I’m not confident. I find that sometimes holding back is what’s best. I see having self-restraint as being the bigger person. Not saying anything at all can have more of an effect than actually saying something.

Piece of Mind

When people are put into different situations, the reactions they have say a lot about the type of person they are. When in an argument with someone else, my thought process immediately goes to doing what’s best; although my actions may not be immediately beneficial, I try to suggest what will help the most in the long run.

I am involved with many sports; therefore, it is important for me to be a good leader and voice my thoughts well. I believe telling the truth can hurt, but it’s often necessary in order to be on the same page about things. I can be brutally honest and some things I say may hurt people. However, whoever is hurt by my words realizes that I only suggest what I believe is best for them. My intentions are never to hurt them, but to help them. In my opinion, being blunt is better than trying to sugar coat everything to protect someone’s feelings.

“Speaking up for myself reassures me that I believe in who I am, and what I am,” Quora author Arlee Hang said. “Being able to speak up for myself means I have beliefs I actually stand by, and I’m willing to defend it if anyone tries to wave it off.”

I have always had problems with self confidence; speaking up for myself allows me to share my intelligence and opinions while also feeling like my voice matters. Speaking out about what matters has not only helped my friends, but it has helped me become more confident and stronger in my beliefs. Using my voice and making my values known has helped me become a better leader. I’m an outspoken person, and I feel it’s important to speak up for myself and others.