One of the great societal gifts provided in most countries is the right of free speech. It allows for the free exchange of ideas, the broadening of perspectives, and the ability to project yourself as a unique human being. By exercising this right, we are able to learn from what others have to say and also to teach them about us and our experiences.
It is disheartening, however, to observe how many people don’t maximize that right because they exercise self-censorship. Whether they are at a social event or a business meeting, many people hold back for fear that others will disregard what they have to say, belittle them, or criticize their contributions to a discussion.
If you observe those who are comfortable in volunteering their opinions and knowledge in such situations, you are likely to notice a common denominator about them and the way that they interact. Not everything that they say is brilliant or funny or overly meaningful – but they are willing to say what they have to say.
Speaking up does have an element of risk, but the degree of risk tends to be overblown by those who are timid. If you observe enough interactions, you are likely to notice that most statements aren’t ignored or greeted with put-downs or derisive laughter. Most people tend to have their point of view respected by others even if they may disagree.
Everyone has lots of ideas running around in their heads all the time, and they can call on those ideas to make contributions to group discussions. Don’t assume that whatever you have to say is unimportant or silly or already known by everybody else.
Assume that what you have to say is important – at least a reasonable percentage of the time. If you assume that you have important things to say, it will tend to work against self-censorship, and that will increase your self-respect and your willingness to share your unique knowledge and opinions with others. You owe it to yourself – and to everybody else.