Speak to be heard

Ask yourself: Can you speak to be heard? In most situations? With different people? Are you feeling drained by interactions in an increasingly “competitive” world? Do you struggle to ask for what you truly deserve, only to find that, even if you do ask, the outcome often falls short?

Some of these challenges stem from fear and a belief that our needs or feelings aren’t important enough to be heard. But remember, your feelings are important, as are your aspirations. You deserve to be heard.

How to Navigate These Experiences

Saying no is like learning to ride a bike—once you get the hang of it, you won’t forget. At first, it may be challenging, but it’s a skill worth practicing. Here are a few simple ways to start:

• Take Your Time – Think carefully about what you want to say; speed is not your friend here.
• Listen Actively – Engage in the conversation, offering feedback and showing you’re truly present.
• Ask Questions – Show interest and clarify when needed.
• Refine Your Communication Skills – The basics of successful communication apply across the board, whether it’s in person, over FaceTime, or texting.

Practice these steps to strengthen your voice and ensure it’s heard in every conversation.