Whenever we open a social media profile, we are inundated with different voices and opinions. Speaking up has become much easier in the days of social media platforms. And yet in the most important professional and personal equations, speaking up can be one of the most daunting tasks, more so for #women.

We have been conditioned to repress ourselves and not speak up because it is easier to keep the peace than trigger an uncomfortable conversation. I was no exception. I would keep quiet and later it would lead to an outburst or miscommunication. However, in recent years, I have seen how speaking up, although momentarily discomforting, can prevent conflicts, and resentments.

Now, I try to speak up even when it doesn’t sit well with people or makes me feel guilty or doubtful for a short while. Those who are genuine and mean well appreciate the honesty and understand that this gives them greater clarity about me. This is why I am giving myself the badge of “Speaking Up”, hoping that more women will be encouraged to speak up and make choices fearlessly.