The Power of Speaking Up

Have you ever felt the power of your own voice? It can be both beautiful and terrifying, really, once you realize how much influence one’s words can have over another. I, for one, had difficulty in speaking my own mind in countless situations. And more often than not, I still do. What if I say something wrong or stupid? What if someone thinks I’m unreasonable and disagrees with what I say? These feelings of fear and anxiety over what other people think constantly cloud my mind — and in my perspective, staying silent always seemed like the wiser choice, the easier option. However, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in this present time, there is power in being able to speak up — even when it’s difficult.

Here’s why:

Speak up because it allows you to grow as an individual. I believe it takes a lot to speak with vulnerability. Sometimes, we fear judgement and disapproval from others, and as a result, we tweak our own truths and expressions in order to feel connected and a sense of belongingness, somehow. However, being able to be true to yourself, and being able to stand up for what you believe in, is a liberating expression that exemplifies that you are your own person. You are your own thoughts, opinions, and views on certain matters in life, as these build your own character as an individual — and sharing these with the world will not only allow you to embrace authenticity but also allows you to attract like-minded people as well.

Speak up because your voice speaks for the voiceless. We live in a world wherein a lot of cases of social injustice are being committed every single day. Racism, oppression, and complete disregard for democracy and human rights are some of the issues we currently face today. Most of these issues are considered sensitive, and oftentimes, they are uncomfortable to talk about. However, we must challenge ourselves to speak up against such injustices and initiate conversations that could possibly educate others. With that being said, being able to use our voice for good comes with the great responsibility for being informed and educated by others as well. Whether in person or on social media sites, we are given so many platforms and opportunities to voice our own opinions — and in such circumstances wherein one is oppressed, staying silent cannot be an option. By speaking out, we amplify the importance of these issues. By speaking out, we let the voices of those who are oppressed — be heard.

Speak up because your voice matters. If you don’t speak, you won’t be heard. It’s a simple thought, but it has created a huge impact as to how I use my voice for good. There is a tendency for some people to undermine their value and their worth; hence, it could sometimes be difficult for them to speak up. However, what they fail to realize is that what they can offer to the world is priceless. No one has the exact same thoughts, ideas, and passions as you, which is why your words ultimately have power and why your voice matters.

Certainly, there is courage in being able to stand up and speak, and there is courage in being able to sit down and listen. However, in a period wherein waves of injustice and oppression amongst different countries, races, and ethnicities prevail, we have the duty to speak up. As future leaders of our generation, we carry the responsibility of empowering others and further creating a better society.

“If you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else.” ― Toni Morrison