Speaking Up
Expressing oneself isn’t always effortless, even for someone like me.
If you knew me as a kid, you’re likely thinking, “Yeah, right, Dan. You’ve never struggled to speak your mind.”
You might be correct, or at least it may appear that way. But the truth is, speaking up can be learned.
I used to fear discussing my love for God and Jesus openly. I was apprehensive that I’d face judgment and that others might lose faith in me because I believe in God.
The complete opposite unfolded. Once I took a firm stance and began vocalizing my beliefs, individuals either ceased following me or engaged in even more communication.
Some of you may have only picked up on the fact that people stopped following me and are fixating on that. But let it go. Those who choose to pretend they don’t know me simply because I stood up for my beliefs. Well, guess what? They weren’t adding any genuine value to my life anyway.
Another endeavor I embarked on was speaking on stage. If you knew me growing up, you might say, “Dan, you’ve never struggled with being in front of people.”
In fact, my brother might jestingly say I’m a spotlight hog. Just kidding, Rusty. (Well, kind of, ha-ha.)
The truth is, I adore being in front of people and sharing my message, provided that I know the message is genuine and I wholeheartedly believe in it.
I’ve had the privilege of speaking on stages where renowned country performers have also stood, right here in Reno, NV, addressing crowds of over 500 people. Additionally, I’ve spoken at venues such as the city auditorium in Spokane, Washington, as well as in front of smaller congregations and youth groups.
The size of the stage or the size of the crowd doesn’t affect the butterflies I feel before stepping out to speak. Recently, the most challenging “stage” for me was standing behind the podium at our small local church.
Despite the audience numbering fewer than 10 people, I found it challenging to feel at ease, even though I repeated the experience for two consecutive weeks and had my message meticulously planned out.
Here’s the crucial step to stepping onto the stage and facing an audience:
Just do it.
If the pastor requests that you fill in for him while he takes a well-deserved break, seize the opportunity.
When an old friend reaches out and asks you to give a toast at their birthday celebration or wedding, embrace the chance and do it.
Once you take that initial step, the subsequent actions tend to flow more easily. If your high school teacher requests that you speak a few words at the class reunion, seize the opportunity.
The essence is clear: if you desire to pursue something, you must say yes. The most challenging aspect of taking action is taking that first step.
Finally, to ensure your voice is heard, you must speak out. Don’t linger in the shadows of others who are expressing their thoughts.
Stand tall, speak boldly, and be articulate. And guess what happens next?
People begin to listen! It’s truly remarkable.
Here are just a few of the insecurities I grapple with every time I speak.
1. What if I’m mistaken?
Who cares!
If you misspeak and later discover the correct answer, own up to your mistake in front of everyone—eat that humble pie and relish every bite.
After you finish your meal, do you know what’s going to happen? Everyone who witnessed you eat crow and do so with dignity will admire what you say that much more.
2. I lack the proficiency to speak in front of people.
Moses expressed similar concerns to God when he was sent back to Egypt to speak to the pharaoh, saying, “God, I’m not eloquent with words.”
If Moses could aid in freeing the Israelites from years and years of slavery, you could also effectively convey your message.
3. Nobody is interested in hearing what I have to say.
Alright, you may have a point, but does it really matter? Stop fretting over others’ opinions and just get it done.
Whether or not others approve of you speaking up, what truly matters is that you believe in yourself. Do it for yourself!
4. I’m incapable of doing it, and everyone will perceive me as foolish.
We’ve all heard the saying, “Better to be thought an idiot than to open your mouth and prove them right.”
But frankly, that’s nonsense.
I’ll borrow the words from a great country song: “If you never stand for anything, you’ll fall for everything.”
Don’t let fear of others’ opinions hold you back. Ultimately, their views aren’t what counts.
Alright, I’m stepping down from my soapbox. Hopefully, you can seize yours and have the courage to stand atop it and share your message without fear.
Thanks for striking me with this one. And to learn more about my faith, check out www.GodFirstLifeNExt.org to read our weekly devotionals.
Stay safe out there and make your voice heard, unless you happen to disagree with me. Just kidding, ha-ha.
Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Encouraging Self-Empowerment: Inner Dialogue” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.
