12. Helpful Reminders When Speaking Up

Opening up isn’t always smooth.
It can feel awkward, confronting, or even disappointing at times.

That’s normal.

Healing isn’t always comfortable — but it is worth it.

This lesson offers some simple reminders to keep you grounded, supported, and steady as you begin (or continue) your journey of speaking up.

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💬 It’s Okay to Feel Awkward
Feeling nervous doesn’t mean something is wrong.
In fact, discomfort is a sign you’re doing something new — and something brave.

Take your time.
Stay with it.
Let it unfold at your pace.

A little bit of discomfort now can lead to a lot of healing later.

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🛠️ Being Real Isn’t Always Easy — But It’s Powerful
You might feel exposed.
You might question if what you said made sense.
You might feel tired afterwards.

That’s all part of it.

Being real is courageous.
And it’s exactly what the world needs more of.

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🧠 Remember: You’re Not Alone
Even if it feels like no one understands — someone does.

• Millions of people around the world are feeling what you feel
• Everyone goes through tough times
• Feeling “off” is human, not defective

It may seem like people don’t care — but they do.
We do.
And your voice matters.

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🚫 Your Pain Is Not Too Small
Don’t fall into the trap of comparative suffering — thinking:

• “Others have it worse.”
• “This isn’t a big enough problem.”

If it’s affecting you, it’s real.
If it’s on your mind or in your heart, it deserves to be heard.

There is no emotional pain too small to be validated.

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🕰️ Stay Patient. Stay Committed.
Healing takes time.

• Don’t expect everything to be solved in one conversation
• Don’t expect yourself (or others) to get it right every time
• Don’t panic if things don’t feel better immediately

Progress is rarely linear.
You might have good days and bad days.
That’s not failure — that’s human.

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🤝 Your Support Person Might Not Be Perfect
They might:

• Say the wrong thing
• Freeze in the moment
• Miss what you really need

That doesn’t mean they don’t care.
They’re probably trying their best — just like you are.

If something doesn’t land, you can gently guide them.
This is a journey together.

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🌟 Final Words: You’ve Got This
You’re doing something many people never find the courage to do.
You’re choosing truth.
You’re choosing connection.
You’re choosing yourself.

That’s not weakness. That’s leadership.

Lead by example. Be brave.
You’ve got this.