Choosing to be silent when you do not appreciate what is being said may seem like a good idea but more often than not, the art of silence implicitly means that you agree with what was said. Silence is just as powerful as talking. Whenever you are involved in a situation, people are aware of all the input and lack of it. When you disapprove and don't say anything, it will not make you seem easy going. Doing nothing and allowing it to happen is just as enabling as wholeheartedly agreeing on a topic. People rarely thank you for withholding information. So speak up and let your opinion be heard.
1. Speaking up for the greater good. Most people are good-hearted by nature. Many stay silent because they don't want to harm, offend or criticise others. But when a person seems severely misguided or heading down a treacherous path, it's selfish to put our own need to be comfortable above the needs of the others. Worse, by staying silent, you may be harming the very people you hope to help. The worst case scenario if you speak up is that someone may disagree, but at least the issue is out and an active decision can be made. The best case scenario is that everyone benefits and recognises you to be someone to be 2. Demonstrate you are invested. Why were you invited to the conversation in the first place? You were probably recognised as someone who can make a difference in your area of expertise. Someone invited you into the dynamic. If you truly don't have an opinion, then find a better use of your time. However, if you are there for a reason you need to show your commitment to the process and the people involved by being active and vocal. Speaking up is an important form in integrity and honesty. Honesty builds trust, especially combined with tact and empathy. While the 3 may seem mutually exclusive, together they are a potent combination and a welcome to any conversation. By demonstrating your opinions vocally,people will recognize your independent thought and sense of empathy. You will never lack for trusting friends and followers.
3. No one else may see your perspective. You can't assume the obvious is obvious. Your experience and knowledge has value in a given situation. No one else has your unique perspective. That doesn't mean that everything in your brain is worth sharing, but with a little discretion and thought, you should be able to bring value in most situations. Also, people don't automatically recognize your skills, values, ambitions, and desires when you are quiet. If you wait around for people to notice or read your mind, you will likely end up on many paths that are not of your own choosing. You may end up with projects you don't want, missing promotions you do, or accepting tasks you don't have time or ability to complete. Recognise that yo are unique with your own independent thought and share to add value.
