Too often, women struggle with cultural expectations that they should be submissive, complacent and restrained. Despite the strides women have made to earn equality and break the glass ceiling, misogyny is still a very real, tangible problem in today’s world. Women who pursue leadership roles and embrace feminist ideas get labeled as “shrill” or told they should “smile more.” As a woman, you might struggle to stand up and advocate for yourself when the world wants to hold you back, but that’s why it’s even more crucial to find and embrace your voice. Here are four ways to do so.
1. Challenge Yourself to Be More Confident
Many of us assume insecurity and self-doubt are our default state of being, and that we should move through the world with a hyper-awareness of how others see us. If you lack the confidence to express yourself, it becomes a self-defeating mindset. To combat this problem, you can use a daily mantra like “I am enough” or “I’m worthy of success.” Repeat this motto, either silently or out loud, when you find your self-esteem flagging.
2. Find a Mentor
You might need some help on the journey to find and embrace your voice. In that case, having someone who inspires you can be essential. A mentor could be a work colleague or a person you want to emulate in your personal life. You don’t have to pattern your behavior after your mentor’s – we’re all different, so you shouldn’t try to hold yourself to someone else’s standards – but it can be beneficial to have a trusted adviser when you’re unsure what to do.
3. Be Honest With Yourself and Others
You may have heard the quote from activist Maggie Kuhn: “Stand before the people you fear and speak your mind – even if your voice shakes.” Finding and embracing your voice can feel intimidating sometimes because it requires complete honesty. Instead of holding yourself back from sharing your ideas, speak up. You could say, “It makes me nervous to say this, but here’s what I think.” It might surprise you how receptive people are.
4. Resolve to Advocate for Yourself
Your parents may have taught you that it’s impolite to speak up for yourself, and that it’s rude to be assertive or confident. Even in 2020, this type of conditioning remains ingrained in many women’s psyches. You’ve probably had male colleagues interrupt you so often that you barely even notice it anymore. Next time someone tries to talk over you or claim your idea as theirs, point it out and defend yourself. When you find and embrace your voice, you can show the world you’re not a pushover.
Continuing Care for Women
One part of finding and embracing your voice could be admitting you have a substance use disorder. If that’s the case for you, starting your women’s-only recovery at Canyon Crossing can help you break the cycle of addiction and be happier. Contact us today to learn more.