How often do you say what is on your mind? Albert Einstein once said, “Be a voice, not an echo”. But what does that mean?
Most of us spend all our lives fitting in, trying to say the right things, or trying to say what others want to hear. Whether that is in the workplace or on Instagram, we are constantly trying to please others.
But, what if we stopped chasing other people’s validation, and started embracing ourselves? What if we found our personal voice?
Not only can that help us feel happier and more content – because we are no longer pretending – but it can also help inspire others to be themselves.
How to Find Your Voice
Align With Yourself
The first step to finding your voice is to identify who you are and what your truth is. What do you feel about the world? What cause is important to you? What do you think about the latest trends? What is YOUR opinion?
Only when you identify what you truly think and what your opinions are, can you express them. So take some time with yourself, in quiet reflection. Journaling is a good way to get in touch with your thoughts. You can also go on a quiet walk to spend some time with yourself and reflect on your thoughts.
Find your truth.
Embrace Your Identity
Do you remember trying to “fit in” in school? Maybe you dressed a certain way or listened to a certain kind of music. If you take a closer look, you might even realize how you are trying to fit in with those around you even now, as an adult. We spend a lot of time avoiding rejection and trying to be accepted by our peers, colleagues, and classmates.
In order to find your voice, you have to ditch your fear and embrace yourself. Find your true identity and express it, even if you might be judged. Be YOU, your weird, unique, quirky self. Don’t be afraid of what other people will think. The right people will find you.
Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
Do you have a controversial opinion on a world event? Are you passionate about a social cause or an injustice you see in the world?
One of the most rewarding results of finding and speaking your voice is becoming the cause for change. By realigning with who you are, embracing your authentic self, and ditching the fear of judgment, you give yourself the permission to share your truthful opinion about change you want. This is your chance to inspire others and be the change they want to see in the world, too. Don’t wait around for someone else to take action. Be the voice you want to follow.
Stop Following the Crowd
With social media constantly bombarding us with the latest trends, it can be hard to identify what we truly resonate with and what we are just doing because everyone else is. Be mindful about what you say or do and ask yourself if it is truly what aligns with you.
Whether you are posting a reel to showcase your travels, following someone’s morning routine, trying to be “that girl”, or even repeating a popular sentiment about a world crisis, check in with yourself first. Avoid mindlessly repeating what others are doing.
Remember, it is easy to stay in our comfort zones and follow the crowd throughout our lives. However, that keeps us from our truth, which can lead to a dreary, unsatisfying life! So, rather than following the herd, be the initiator. Find your truth and express it. Don’t be an echo, be the voice.
