How often do you find yourself holding back words or actions at work.... Stifling your true feelings for fear of what someone else might think? Trying to fit in with a culture, or perhaps you think you "have to" go along with the flow to get recognized, promoted, be liked? The more this happens, and the less you act, the more you have to wonder - "Am I in the right place?".

If you are creatively thinking out of the box, how might it benefit the organization for you to voice a new insight or perspective. Also consider, if you are thinking and not voicing - how many others in the room may be doing the same. Consider how true is it that your thoughts won't be well received...are you acting out of fear or reality. Allow yourself to take a leadership role by being true to you - value yourself and others will follow.

Clearly there are times when keeping quiet for face value may make sense - when a topic or debate is less imperative to a personal or professional objective. But often times we act - or don't act - in situations we feel strongly about out of limiting beliefs about what we "are supposed to do" and what is "expected". The next time you "keep quiet" ask yourself the following questions, and then muster up the confidence to go for it!

What do I think about this issue and how does it differ from the consensus?
How critical is this topic in the big picture?
What am I afraid of in voicing my opinion?
What's the worst that could happen if I go against the grain?
What are all of the benefits of speaking up?
How much will I regret going with the flow if I keep quiet?
How can I frame my POV to ensure it is well received?

Try it out and let us know how it goes!