“I am not anxious to be the loudest voice or the most popular. But I would like to think that at a crucial moment, I was an effective voice of the voiceless, an effective hope of the hopeless.”
― Whitney Young
We live in an age where we do not want to be labeled different. It is often easier to follow the crowd rather than state an opinion that may contradict what is popular or generally accepted. Many also do not want to appear foolish or vulnerable when they express their opinion. However expressing your opinion is the trigger that ignites all action, from ideas to plans and decisions.
“Speak up and speak clearly. I want to hear what you have to say because it matters. Let’s listen to each other and respect one another’s opinions. Although, they may be different, wisdom allows us to be responsible for our own feelings and actions.”
― Felicia Johnson, Her
You have a chip on the bargaining table
Airing your opinion offers your stand on what side you will like to take on a subject. We live in a world where people sometimes try to take advantage of others because they believe they will be too nice to say no. But airing your opinion puts you in a pole position where you are not taking advantage of but you are able to make others aware of what you want and demand of them.
You are more interesting
No one likes an indecisive or a shy person. It betrays a lack of maturity and overshadow’s ones confidence. When you are clear about your opinion you show that you are knowledgeable about what you are saying and prove to be an interesting person to engage with in a discussion.
You save yourself some stress
Words that are unsaid or can cause you a great deal of anxiety and stress. The play in your mind could be heavy and it will be so easing to make create a different situation rather than just holding up your intentions or opinions.
You will have something to learn
Whether you are wrong with your opinion or right with it you will have something to learn. Sometimes when your opinion is not grounded enough or relevant it is better to stand corrected rather than holding on to your stupidity. You only become wiser at the end of the day when you air your opinion.
You influence others to do the same
Other people may be finding it difficult to express their opinion. But by taking the step forward to air your opinion you can inspire others to do the same. People appreciate you for being bold and courageous and you are a source of influence to others.
You live with no regrets
By expressing your opinion you eliminate the feeling of “I wish I would have said…” You really have no pains or sour feelings when you look at the past. You can face the future with no regrets at missing an opportunity to let others know what you think.
You can ignite an action
Whether your opinion is taking seriously or not, by airing it you have been able to provide a reason for thinking, consideration or sometimes a reason for action. For example if you offer a possible solution to a problem, even if it is not worth pursuing it could lead to finding a way to get an alternative solution.
You have fewer risks
Most people don’t want to express their opinion because of what they feel may become a drastic consequence. The truth is that the world is for the courageous. Expressing your opinion differentiates you from the pack. There is something heroic about telling others about your opinion. Yes at the long run you are admired rather than scolded. The truth is that there is more to fear for if you do not tell others what you think.
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