This is a contributed post.
It’s very easy, and often wise, to defer to others. We learn as children that many individuals, especially those who are wiser and older than us, have more answers than we do. As such, learning from them, taking directions, and also understanding their mistakes will combine into a more informed worldview.
Yet sometimes, this attitude can carry with us into adulthood if we’re not careful. It’s very easy to defer to everyone else all our lives, not simply out of wisdom (learning to talk less and listen more is a massive virtue), but because we’re not always certain that our own vantage point could offer the right opinion.
However, part of growing up means becoming more confident and capable in your own voice, too. It’s not always easy to do that. However, in this advice, we hope to help you get started on that journey with confidence and vigor. Without further ado, please consider how to become more confident in your own voice:
Find Pride In Your Unique Character & Perspective
Every person’s perspective is shaped by their life experience, upbringing, and personality, and that combination is entirely unique to you. No one else sees the world quite the same way you do. This alone makes your voice valuable, even if it doesn’t always perfectly connect with popular opinions or viewpoints. For example, some people love clubbing. Perhaps you don’t see the value in it, despite being of that age. It’s worth taking some time to reflect on what you bring to the table. Even if you’re an adult and going through an ASD assessment, a diagnosis doesn’t mean you’re lesser or that your viewpoint means less. Understanding this is key to remaining healthy with a clear viewpoint.
Don’t Ask Permission From Anyone & Be Unapologetic Where Healthy To Be So
Seeking validation from others is often instinctive and entirely natural, we’re social creatures after all, but it can hold you back. Waiting for someone to “approve” your thoughts or ideas can quickly become a habit and leave you to feel obligated to other people or in need of their validation, and that makes you second-guess yourself even when you’re on the right track.
It takes work, but trust yourself to know when your thoughts have value. You don’t have to announce or defend every idea, but when something matters to you, let it stand on its own merit. Do this enough, and you’ll be strong enough to voice your opinion while still listening intently. These individuals tend to be very worthwhile to have in your life.
Pursue Your Interests & Passions
In general, confidence grows and you become more assured and assertive when you spend time doing things you genuinely care about. That might be a hobby or a career path, even a practice you love, such as reading widely. But these can become measures through which we view the world. So, the more you immerse yourself in your passions, the more comfortable you’ll become discussing them and allowing you to see the world out there. How many individuals have become more secure in their understanding of the world through home cooking and learning about cuisine? This can be a great crutch and gives you a chance to expand your confidence for the better.
With this advice, we hope you can feel all the more confident in your own voice going forward.