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Everyone wants to be successful. People have different ideas about the kind of success they want, but ultimately success is the goal. In the workplace, there are all kinds of opportunities to be successful but many times, they simply pass by people who are perfectly capable of taking them on. Are you one of those people? If so, then now is the time to speak up and be heard!

Speaking up is harder than some people might think. Putting a voice to desires and dreams or vocalizing a commitment to a challenge makes people feel vulnerable. They don't believe that they can do it. The shelter of a quiet life without change may be okay for some, but if you aren't one of those people you need to start working on ways to speak up and be heard.

People who have already used their voices to express interests and ideas did what they had to do to be able to get to where they want to be. They read books that taught and inspired. They found coaches, mentors and attended seminars to learn how to stand. Are you one of these people? Do you want to find your voice? You can take your own steps to help you get ready to speak up for success.

Start off small and seek out places to test the waters. This is how you can work on building your self-confidence. Self-confidence is your best tool when you want to practice speaking up. You don't have to make your debut of speaking up in a large, public place. Take the steps you are comfortable with and move at your own pace. You can start at home and possibly taking the lead when a child requires guidance or redirection. Let your family know that you need some time alone. If the timing is right, approach your boss about taking some vacation time. Start small and work your way up.

You might be surprised to discover that many groups offer training, coaching and a nurturing environment for growth. Groups like Toastmasters International can provide you with the kind of skills and support you will need when learning how to speak up. This coaching can help you to set your own personal goals and help you achieve them. It is also a great way to practice speaking up!

You are probably your own worst enemy when it comes to speaking up. Most people have to deal with a small inner voice that is critical and judgmental. You need to learn to ignore that voice or turn it off altogether. Practice contradicting that voice when you recognize it popping up in your thoughts. Change your thoughts into positive ones including, "yes I can" and "what I have to say is important." Your inner voice will have to deal with you for once!

The next step may take some time in getting to, but as long as you keep moving forward you will eventually get to the point where you need to try speaking in some challenging places. The best place to speak up and test out your voice is often in the workplace. If you have a thought at a meeting, speak up. If you are involved in community organizations, don't hesitate to voice your opinions and ideas.

It doesn't matter if you are young, old, male, female or any other special type of person. You can speak up and be heard at anytime and at any place. Your ideas are important. You have something to bring to almost every situation. Practice believing in the value of your voice, start to use it and enjoy the benefits of speaking up and being heard.