Empowered Expression: Your Inner Strength to Beyond Limitations

"Your voice is your identity; don't silence it to fit in." ~ Nikita Gill

Sarah and Jane had been inseparable since their first day at university. They pursued the same degree, weathered the countless exams and celebrated each victory as if it were their own. As graduation approached, they were both brimming with excitement and anticipation for their future careers.

Both Sarah and Jane graduated with high distinctions, a testament to their dedication and hard work. They knew they were well-equipped to enter the professional world, armed with their knowledge and determination. They both secured interviews at similar companies, to potentially join the ranks of their chosen field.

Jane's Journey Beyond Uni

Jane approached the negotiation process with confidence. She understood her worth and the value she brought to the company. Armed with research and a sense of self-assuredness, Jane initiated a discussion about her starting salary. She articulated her achievements, highlighted her skill and emphasized her enthusiasm for the role. To her delight, the company recognised her value and agreed to a higher starting salary.

Jane's higher starting salary allowed her to comfortably manage her expenses, invest in her personal development and even plan for a future home and family.

In Jane's case, her higher starting salary meant that her company's contributions to her superannuation were also larger.

This foresight and strategic negotiation not only increased her immediate income but also ensured a more secure financial future.

In the workplace, Jane's confidence and assertiveness shone brightly. She wasn't afraid to voice her opinions in meetings, propose innovative ideas and collaborate with colleagues across departments.

Her colleagues respected her contributions and her superiors took note of her potential. Jane's trajectory within the company was promising and she felt empowered to take on more responsibilities.

Jane's higher starting salary allowed her to comfortably manage her expenses, invest in her personal development and even plan for a future home and family.?

Sarah's Journey Beyond Uni

Sarah was over the moon when she received her job offer. The company had a strong reputation, and she was eager to put her skills to the test. However, the starting salary offered was lower than what she had expected. Doubt gnawed at her, but she hesitated to negotiate, fearing it might jeopardise the opportunity.

As Sarah navigated her new role, she couldn't shake the nagging feeling of being undervalued. Her lower starting salary meant that she constantly found herself struggling to make ends meet.

Sarah, whilst as equally capable as Jane, found herself hesitating to speak up. She often downplayed her ideas and contributions, assuming others knew better. She had become accustomed to questioning her worth and her self-doubt held her back from fully embracing her potential.

Sarah's lack of self-advocacy led to missed opportunities for recognition and advancement.

Basic expenses like rent, bills, and groceries seemed to consume the majority of her income, leaving little room for savings or personal indulgences. The stress of financial strain weighed heavily on her mind, making it challenging for her to focus on her work.

Emotionally, Sarah felt a growing sense of frustration and resentment. She saw her friend Jane and all her colleagues who had negotiated better starting salaries enjoying a more comfortable lifestyle and opportunities for self-improvement.

Sarah's self-esteem suffered as she compared herself to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

As a result of her emotional struggles, Sarah's professional performance began to suffer. Her once vibrant energy and enthusiasm for her work were replaced by a sense of disengagement and apathy.

She found herself hesitating to contribute during meetings, fearing her ideas would be dismissed. The lack of confidence in her abilities hindered her ability to voice opinions and her colleagues started to overlook her contributions.

Additionally, Sarah's reluctance to assert herself hindered her ability to seize growth opportunities. When higher-profile projects arose, she hesitated to express her interest, assuming others were more qualified.

Her supervisors, unaware of her true potential, assigned these projects to more vocal team members. Sarah's lack of assertiveness resulted in missed chances for skill development, visibility and career advancement.

Over time, the negative impact of Sarah's financial stress and emotional turmoil became apparent in her overall demeanour. Her supervisors noticed her diminishing performance and engagement. Feedback from colleagues suggested that Sarah lacked the drive and confidence they had seen in her earlier days.

"Have no fear for giving in. Have no fear for giving over. You'd better know that in the end. It's better to say too much. Than never to say what you need to say again. Even if your hands are shaking. And your faith is broken. Even as the eyes are closing. Do it with a heart wide open (a wide heart). Say what you need to say" John Mayer's song 'Say'

Your Voice Guides the Way to Your Ideal Pathway

As time passed, the differences between Sarah and Jane's career paths became undeniable.

Jane's assuredness had not only secured her a higher starting salary but also positioned her as a rising star within the company.

Meanwhile, Sarah's initial reluctance to speak up during her job interview unknowingly set the stage for a series of unfortunate events that would significantly impact her life. Fearing that negotiating her starting salary might jeopardise her chances, she accepted an offer that didn't accurately reflect her qualifications and potential. This early hesitation foreshadowed a pattern of self-doubt and underestimation that would haunt her throughout her career. As she embarked on her professional journey, Sarah's inability to advocate for herself resulted in more than just a lower salary; it marked the beginning of a downward spiral. The emotional toll of feeling undervalued triggered a lack of confidence that seeped into every aspect of her work and home life. Her contributions became subdued and her reluctance to share ideas hindered her from standing out among her peers.

With each passing day, the gap widened between Sarah and her colleagues who had confidently negotiated better terms. This self-imposed silence wasn't just costing her financially; it was chipping away at her self-esteem, her opportunities, and her future prospects.

Which pathway are you following, Jane's or Sarah's? Unfortunately the majority (especially women) are following Sarah's.

Though the good news is that it's never too late to learn the most ideal way to start walking Jane's pathway, which begins with knowing how to 'Say what you want to say.'

It's Question Time

Grab your journal and a pen, then find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed for 30 mins, so you can dive in to find your answers to these questions.

Then dive into these 20 introspective questions, that are designed so you can reflect on whether you're effectively utilising your voice for personal growth and career advancement:

Personal Growth:

1. Am I regularly stepping out of my comfort zone to express my ideas and opinions?
2. Do I actively seek feedback on my communication skills and incorporate it into my self-improvement efforts?
3. Do I have a clear understanding of my strengths and areas for improvement in communication?
4. Am I setting specific communication-related goals to challenge myself and track progress?
5. Do I engage in reflective practices, like journaling, to explore how I can better articulate my thoughts?
6. Do I prioritise learning and expanding my knowledge to have more meaningful conversations?
7. Am I effectively adapting my communication style to different audiences and situations?
8. Do I actively seek out opportunities for public speaking or presenting to build my confidence?
9. Am I exploring creative outlets, such as writing or podcasting, to express my thoughts more freely?
10. Do I proactively network and engage in discussions that align with my personal growth goals?

Career Advancement:

1. Am I consistently advocating for myself and expressing my career aspirations to my superiors?
2. Do I actively contribute my ideas in team meetings and brainstorming sessions?
3. Am I seeking out leadership roles or additional responsibilities to showcase my skills?
4. Do I effectively communicate my achievements and contributions on my resume and during performance reviews?
5. Am I utilising professional social media platforms to share industry insights and connect with others?
6. Do I actively engage in conversations that challenge my perspective and encourage critical thinking?
7. Am I regularly seeking mentors or advisors who can provide guidance on my career path?
8. Do I actively participate in workshops or courses to enhance my communication and leadership abilities?
9. Am I volunteering for cross-functional projects to expand my knowledge and network?
10. Do I regularly update my personal branding materials (e.g., LinkedIn profile) to reflect my growth and achievements?

Congratulations on taking the time to reflect on your personal growth and career advancement through the insightful questions shared earlier.

How did you go?

The majority of people don't get this far. The fact that you have highlights your commitment to self-awareness will be the crucial step that will ensure you achieving your goals.

If you've identified areas where you feel you could enhance your communication, advocate for yourself more effectively, or further develop your career, consider taking the next proactive step.

A personalised coaching session can help you to delve deeper into your unique situation and provide tailored guidance.

Lesley and Karen are experienced mentors who are here to listen, support, and work with you to create a strategic plan that aligns with your aspirations.

Don't hesitate to invest in your growth and click the picture below to find a suitable time for your free coaching call.

That is the first transformational step on your journey towards a more empowered and fulfilling professional and personal life.

"Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart." – Roy T. Bennett

In Summary

Sarah and Jane's tale highlighted the importance of discovering and utilising your voice.

Your voice empowers you to advocate for yourself and seize opportunities. It's your pivotal step towards transcending limitations.

As you effectively communicating your ideas, needs and aspirations, you break down barriers that may have held you back.

Your voice becomes a most precious gem in your gembox, for asserting your worth, negotiating better terms and asserting your value in professional and personal settings.

It enables you to challenge self-imposed boundaries, embrace new challenges and engage in meaningful collaborations.

When you use your voice to its fullest potential, you not only expand your horizons but also inspire others to do the same.

Ultimately, finding and utilising your voice is the key to unlocking your true potential and moving beyond limitations, forging a path towards growth, success, and fulfillment.

Until we meet again, always remember that you are?Simply The Best.