Speaking up: Why it is such an important communications skills in work / life and How we can improve it?

Schools could do more to teach young people the art and science of Communications Skills as these are so essential in life, and in the workplace. But sadly they don't, so we do.  One of the most important skills is the ability to 'speak up' in a useful and constructive way.   Here's a quick guide to why we often don't, or we feel we do but it lands wrong, or how to handle the fact that we feel we can't! 

People may struggle to speak up for a variety of reasons, such as:

1. Fear of rejection or judgment
   People may be afraid that speaking up will lead to negative consequences, such as rejection, judgment, or conflict.
2. Lack of confidence
   People may lack confidence in their abilities to communicate effectively or fear that they will say the wrong thing.
3. Cultural or societal norms
   Cultural or societal norms may discourage people from speaking up, especially if they are from backgrounds that prioritize hierarchy, respect for authority, or avoiding conflict.
4. Past negative experiences
   Past negative experiences, such as being ridiculed or dismissed, can also make it difficult for people to speak up.

To address these challenges, people can try the following:

1. Identify the root cause
   It's essential to understand the underlying reasons for your difficulty in speaking up. This can help you develop a plan of action to overcome it.
2. Practice self-reflection
   Reflect on your thoughts and feelings, and consider how they may be impacting your ability to communicate effectively.
3. Take small steps
   Start with small, low-stakes situations to practice speaking up. This can help build confidence and develop skills over time.
4. Seek support
   Reach out to trusted friends, family, or colleagues for support and feedback. They can help you build confidence and offer constructive feedback.
5. Seek professional help 
   Consider seeking professional help from a therapist or coach who can help you identify and overcome any barriers to effective communication.

'Speaking up' is a skill that can be developed with practice, self-reflection, and support from others. By addressing the root causes of difficulty speaking up, people can improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships in their personal and professional lives.

​Improving communication skills and speaking up effectively is essential for personal and professional growth. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Practice active listening
   Active listening means paying full attention to what the other person is saying, asking questions, and clarifying doubts. This can help build rapport and trust, and encourage the other person to listen to you in turn.
2. Develop empathy
   Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. Developing empathy can help you understand the other person's perspective and respond in a way that is respectful and constructive.
3. Work on assertiveness
   Being assertive means expressing your thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a clear and respectful manner. It can help you communicate your needs and boundaries effectively and avoid conflict.
4. Seek feedback
   Asking for feedback from others can help you identify areas where you need to improve and gain confidence in your communication skills.
5. Practice, practice, practice
   Like any skill, effective communication requires practice. Look for opportunities to speak up, whether it's in meetings, conversations with friends and family, or even in front of a mirror.

The ability to speak up about issues free of emotions is vital because it helps you convey your message clearly and objectively. When emotions are high, communication can break down, and the other person may not be able to understand your message. By staying calm and objective, you can increase the chances of your message being heard and understood. Additionally, when emotions are kept in check, it can help prevent conflicts and promote healthy relationships.