Discovering Your Voice: Overcoming Silence
All too often, life has a way of silencing us. Our upbringing, our education, our religion, our societal roles – these factors often mute our voices and our expression. Sometimes, we silence ourselves out of fear, shame, or uncertainty. Amidst the noise of the world, our voice can become drowned out. It's possible that some of us have never really heard our own voices, and this lack of self-expression becomes a norm in our lives.
As children, we're often taught to express ourselves in a specific way. Phrases like "be quiet," "stay in line," "follow the crowd," and "don't cause trouble" form the narrative of our self-expression. We are programmed to be passive, not to challenge the status quo, not to advocate for ourselves or others, and not to articulate our truth. However, this needs to change.
The Power of Every Voice
Every voice carries within it the essence and power of an individual, and hence, every voice is significant. Tori Amos, in a 1998 interview, poignantly observed, "It's about realizing, painfully, you've kept that voice inside yourself, locked away from even yourself... You realize you've become your own jailer." It's time we liberated ourselves from our self-imposed silence and truly embraced our individuality.
More Than Just Sound
When I collaborate with clients, our journey begins by allowing their voices to breathe, to flow unrestricted. Here, 'voice' doesn't necessarily refer to physical vocals or singing; it represents your creativity, your self-expression, your identity. Engaging with this process has the potential to revolutionize how you perceive and navigate your life. You will discover that your voice has always been there, patiently waiting to be heard. Are you ready to reclaim your voice?
Engaging with Your Voice: A Simple Exercise
Here is a simple yet effective daily exercise that can help you connect with your voice. Ask yourself, "How do I feel?" Take a moment to sit with your feelings without attempting to 'fix' or change anything. Just be present for yourself. Some may struggle to articulate their emotions, and that's okay. The attached word list can assist you in finding the right language.
Remember, this isn't about judging or suppressing your emotions. Instead, it's about understanding and accepting them as they are. It's about giving your feelings a voice. This simple act can start to release any conditioning, allowing you to freely be yourself, to fully express your thoughts and feelings. Your voice is your power; let it be heard.
