Finding Your Voice: How to Speak Up Even When You’re Afraid
If you're afraid to speak up right now, you are not alone. I’ve been feeling paralyzed by fear.
This week, we’re witnessing already marginalized communities being deported, erased, and oppressed.
It’s natural to shut down when we’re terrified—our freeze is activated.
You might be numbing. You might be avoiding. You’re probably doomscrolling. And that’s understandable.
But that is exactly what the authoritarian wants. He wants us silent. He wants us scared. He wants us isolated and hopeless.
Let’s not give him what he wants.
I will not be silent. I've struggled with speaking anxiety my whole life, and I will not be quiet, even when my voice is shaking.
Right now, I am gathering strength by focusing on uplifting and amplifying voices who are being silenced. Including my own.
I’m speaking up at my City Council meetings. I’m focusing on my local community, mutual aid, and holding space for those most impacted by what’s going on.
I don’t blame you for shutting down right now. If you’re having trouble focusing on work or engaging, it makes sense.
But when you're ready to get to work, know that I am here. When you are ready to speak up, even if your voice shakes, come get tools to use your voice for good.
Don’t let your voice be silenced by:
🌕 The anticipatory fear of speaking nerves
🌖 The harm of "keeping politics out of the workplace" (or off LinkedIn!)
🌗 The gaslighting of legitimate concerns as "just anxiety"
🌘 Intimidation by insecure leaders who mistake dominance for leadership
🌑 Fast-paced meetings that leave no room for reflection or processing
🌒 Policies that prioritize compliance over courage
🌓 Vague feedback that turns presence into over-thinking
Understanding Speaking Anxiety
Speaking anxiety is one of the most common human experiences. When we feel afraid to speak up, our bodies often respond with physical symptoms like:
Racing heartbeat
Shaky voice
Mind going blank
Throat constriction
Sweaty palms
These reactions are completely normal - they're simply your body's natural response to perceived stress. The key is learning to work with these sensations rather than fighting against them.
Practical Strategies for Speaking Up
Start small: Practice speaking up in low-stakes situations first to build confidence gradually
Prepare key points: Having 2-3 main ideas ready can help you stay focused when anxiety strikes
Use conscious breathing: Take slow, deliberate breaths to help regulate your nervous system
Ground yourself physically: Feel your feet on the floor or focus on points of contact with your chair
Reframe the situation: Remember that most people are focused on their own anxiety, not your nervousness
The Power of Presence
Instead of trying to eliminate fear completely (which rarely works), focus on staying present in the moment. When we're fully present, we can:
Listen more effectively to others
Access our authentic voice
Respond thoughtfully rather than reactively
Connect more genuinely with our audience
Building Your Speaking Confidence
Remember that confidence isn't about feeling fearless - it's about speaking up despite the fear. Here are some ways to build your speaking confidence over time:
Practice regularly in supportive environments (like my free group coaching class!)
Celebrate small wins and progress
Focus on your impact rather than perfection
Anchor your attention in your body instead of over-thinking
Moving Forward
Your voice matters. With practice and patience, you can learn to manage speaking anxiety and share your valuable perspectives with the world.
Start small, stay present, and remember - the world needs your voice, even when it shakes.
