You should say something

The people who are not speaking are probably the ones that should be.

In the design or creative space I have often seen things that I think, “did no one say anything?” Something is in incredibly poor taste, or not well thought out, or even worse, just didn’t push it far enough, to its full potential.

Most likely there was someone present in “the room” when the decisions where being made and thought their opinion didn’t matter, or “these other people are smarter, more qualified, whatever, then me, so I’m sure they thought of it,” or “even, if I do speak, it won’t make a difference.”

One of the things that’s helped me in being willing to speak up is to be able to understand I am not the decider. I don’t necessarily have to make this happen, but I do need to speak. I never know how my words will be used to spark a new thought, change assumptions, or give pause to consider the big picture.

“It’s not my call , but it is my opinion.”

Always raise your hand. Always be a “value-add” in every conversation. They might not listen, but that’s on them. Not speaking? That’s on you.

When we shrink back, worry about feeling stupid, or are too proud to be wrong we would rather pretend to be humble (ouch), we rob the situation of it’s most needed ingredient. Perspective.

So, you should say something.