Choosing Your Battles – Is Your Voice Really Serving the Cause?

For the outspoken among us, silence feels like betrayal. When we witness injustice, our voices rise to meet it. But here’s the paradox: is it really our passion for justice that drives us to speak, or is it the thrill of being heard? Outspoken personalities often believe they’re moving mountains with their words, yet how often do those words sow discord rather than effect change?

Let’s face it: not every battle is ours to fight. In fact, our need to express every reaction, every thought, can overshadow the voices that genuinely need to be heard. Think of those quiet, thoughtful people whose insights might change the room—if only we gave them space. Our unchecked voices can drown theirs out, creating a lopsided dialogue where the loudest voices win, not the wisest ones. Silence can be strategic; it can make space for someone else’s perspective. Choosing not to speak can be as powerful as speaking out, if not more so.

But this goes both ways. Those who stand silently in the background, bottling their insights and frustrations, also contribute to the problem. Their reluctance to engage leaves important gaps. They, too, need to find the courage to step into the conversation. For both camps—the explosive and the reserved—the message is the same: self-awareness. Knowing when to speak, when to listen, and when to let go is a transformative power. We’re all communicators; the question is, are we using our voices to build bridges or to make noise? The choice is yours. Are you ready to use your voice—or your silence—for real impact?

Have a brilliant day!

Ulf Lidman

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