Stand Up For Yourself

Let's chat about something that's been on my mind lately: the art of standing up for yourself. It's a delicate balance, isn't it? On one hand, you've got to assert your identity and values; on the other, you want to remain open to growth and constructive feedback. Let's break this down together.

Standing up for yourself is more than just voicing your opinions; it's about affirming your self-worth and setting clear boundaries. When you advocate for yourself, you send a message—to both yourself and others—that your thoughts, feelings, and needs are valid. This self-assertion is foundational in building genuine confidence. In fact, a survey by the American Psychological Association revealed that 85% of successful individuals attribute their achievements to self-confidence.

Don't Let Others Speak For You

It's all too common for others to project their perceptions onto us, often with good intentions. They might believe they're guiding us, but sometimes, these narratives can feel restrictive or misaligned with our true selves. While it's essential to consider external perspectives, it's equally crucial to ensure they don't overshadow your own understanding of who you are and the value you bring.

Trust What You Bring To The Table

True confidence isn't about being combative or dismissive; it's rooted in a deep understanding of your core values and recognizing the unique contributions you offer. This self-awareness allows you to engage in discussions without feeling threatened, as you're anchored in a clear sense of self. By embracing your strengths and acknowledging areas for growth, you cultivate a balanced and authentic confidence.

The Risk of Living in a Bubble

Feedback is a gift, especially when it highlights areas where we can improve. Embracing a growth mindset means being receptive to such input, understanding that our abilities and intelligence can develop over time. Research from Stanford University indicates that students with a growth mindset consistently outperform those with a fixed mindset, emphasizing the power of believing in our capacity to evolve. However, it's vital to discern between constructive feedback and opinions that don't resonate with your truth. Holding firm to your beliefs, when they're well-founded, ensures you remain authentic and not easily swayed by every external opinion.

Practical Steps to Advocate for Yourself

1. Know Your Worth: Recognize and celebrate your strengths and achievements. This self-awareness forms the foundation of self-advocacy.​

2. Communicate Clearly: Express your thoughts and boundaries in a respectful and assertive manner. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and reinforces your stance.

3. Seek Constructive Feedback: Actively look for input that promotes growth, but filter out unsolicited or unhelpful criticisms.​

4. Set Boundaries: Establish and maintain boundaries that protect your well-being and reflect your values.​

5. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly assess your beliefs and behaviors, making adjustments that align with your evolving self-awareness.

Parting Words

Standing up for yourself is a continuous journey of self-discovery and affirmation. By understanding your core values, embracing growth, and setting clear boundaries, you pave the way for authentic confidence. Remember, while it's essential to remain open to growth and feedback, your self-worth shouldn't be contingent on others' perceptions. Trust in your journey, and let your genuine confidence shine through.

Until next time!

Have a great beginning to your week!

Thought Of The Week

A weekly thought to meditate, ruminate, and/or ponder on:

"I will not let anyone walk through my mind with their dirty feet."

- Mahatma Gandhi

If you are interested in improving your interviewing, communication and confidence skills, schedule a call with me or learn more about my coaching here. And if you haven't yet, subscribe to The Confidence Weekly Newsletter here.