Finding Your Voice When You Feel Invisible

Todays insights come with a spoiler alert! If you are a Bridgerton fan and haven’t finished season 3 then save this for later!

In a world where voices can easily be drowned out by the noise of the world, finding your own voice can be a powerful and transformative experience. This is a key topic I write about in ‘You Always Have a Choice’.

The third season of Bridgerton brings this theme to life through the character of Penelope Featherington, a young woman often overlooked and underestimated by those around her, including her own family. Penelope’s journey from invisibility to finding her voice offers valuable lessons for anyone feeling unseen and unheard.

Penelope Featherington was a wallflower in Regency-era London, a society where women had limited opportunities and were rarely heard. Despite her keen intelligence and insightful observations, she was disregarded by society and not respected by her family.

But Penelope found a way to channel her voice in the most unexpected manner: through the written word. She started a gossip column under the pseudonym "Lady Whistledown," and her writings quickly became the talk of the town.

Through her column, Penelope found her voice. Although she initially used her platform to share gossip, sometimes causing hurt and misunderstanding, her writing was appreciated for its wit, intelligence, and intriguing style.

Penelope's words resonated with people, and they began to see her, albeit unknowingly, in a different light. She had managed to carve out a space where her thoughts and opinions mattered, even if she had to do so anonymously.

The turning point in Penelope's story came when Queen Charlotte demanded to know the true identity of Lady Whistledown. Faced with the threat of being exposed and forced to stop her column, Penelope found herself at a crossroads. She could protect her identity and silence her voice, or she could take ownership of her work and continue sharing her perspective with the world.

Despite the risks, Penelope chose the latter. She realised that her column was more than just a pastime; it was her passion and her way of expressing herself and asserting her place in a society that often ignored her.

By claiming ownership of her writing and the persona she created, Penelope embraced her voice and her values. She continued her column, even under pressure, because it was an integral part of who she was.

Penelope’s journey is a powerful example for those who feel invisible and unheard. While starting a gossip column might not be the ideal solution, there are many ways to find and assert your voice. Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Identify Your Passion:?Like Penelope, find something you are passionate about. Whether it’s writing, art, music, or another form of expression, let your passion guide you.
2. Start Small:?Begin by sharing your thoughts and ideas in a safe space. This could be a blog, a journal, or even a small group of trusted friends. The important thing is to start expressing yourself.
3. Stay True to Your Values:?Penelope’s story reminds us of the importance of sticking to our values. While her gossip column was controversial, she ultimately wrote from a place of honesty and insight. Ensure that your voice aligns with your values and integrity.
4. Take Ownership:?Don’t be afraid to take ownership of your work and your voice. Penelope’s bravery in claiming her identity as Lady Whistledown is a testament to the power of owning your narrative.
5. Build Confidence:?Finding your voice takes time and confidence. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you and believe in your abilities.

Penelope Featherington’s journey in Bridgerton shows that even in the most restrictive societies, one can find and claim their voice. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone feeling unseen and unheard. Embrace your voice, stay true to your values, and let your words resonate with the world.

____________________________________

?Hi, I'm Julie Hyde. I empower leaders to elevate their leadership skills and thrive through effective leadership, resilience, and adaptability to change.?