Unmute Yourself: How to Own Your Voice in Every Room You Enter

Have you ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “I wish I had spoken up”?

Or agreed to something you didn’t want to do—just to avoid conflict?

Some think that being “easy to work with” means saying yes, accommodating everyone, and avoiding tension. Most also don't want to be “difficult” or “the problem.”

So they say yes to extra work—even when drowning in deadlines. They nod along in meetings—even when having a different opinion. They even soften emails with "Just checking in" and "Sorry to bother you"—even though they have every right to ask for what is needed.

And guess what? It doesn't make you more respected. It might even make you invisible.

The Myth of “Being Easy to Work With”

Many of us are taught that assertiveness is the same as being aggressive. 

That speaking up makes us “too much.” But the truth is:

✅ Assertiveness is about clarity, not conflict.

✅ Assertiveness earns respect, not resentment.

✅ Assertiveness creates stronger relationships, not weaker ones.

Being agreeable doesn’t make people value you more—it makes them assume you’ll always go along with whatever they want.

How to Be Own Your Voice (Without Apologizing for It)

Here are three simple but powerful strategies:

1. Say NO Without Over-Explaining

Instead of:"I’m so sorry, but I don’t think I can take this on right now..."

Try:"I appreciate the opportunity, but I won’t be able to take this on."

No justifications. No apologies. Just clarity.

2. Set Boundaries That Stick

Instead of:"I guess I could make this work…"

Try:"I’m available during [specific times]. If that doesn’t work, let’s find another solution."

Your time and energy are valuable. Communicate that clearly.

3. Speak Up in Meetings With Confidence

Instead of: Staying quiet even when you disagree.

Try:"I have a different perspective I’d like to share." or "Here’s my take on this approach."

Small shifts in language and delivery can completely change how people perceive you.

Have you struggled with assertiveness?

If you want a deep dive into how to be more assertive in work and life, listen to Episode 118 of Rabbit, Rabbit podcast episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! 🎙️https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rabbit-rabbit/id1182785646