As girls, we are taught from a young age to apologize for everything we do… even if it is not our fault!
In this day and age, we use the word sorry in many different ways. It can be used to empathize with someone, express feelings of regret or guilt, and the most common use, to apologize.
Sorry is a good word when used in a healthy context. However, we should not be using this word as a lack of confidence or as an excuse.
While women now have rights and are considered equal to men, the female pretense is to remain silent. Bills may have been passed, however, beliefs of sexism are instilled from generation to generation.
This happens most commonly in the workspace. The male/female matrix is very present in our world today. Even with equality, men still tend to discredit their female co-workers, making them feel inferior. This is half of the problem.
In a professional setting, women are usually expected to remain quiet and unseen. Typically when we have an idea, we introduce the topic with a simple "sorry, but what if..." This is a common way of life. In fact, most women are unaware that they have settled into this habit. But in reality, what are we apologizing for?
If you are guilty of this habit (I know I am) focus on being more confident. Believe in your ideas and opinions. When you want to speak up, proudly present yourself and your ideas. More people will respect you and take your vision more seriously.
Empowerment for women is everything. It is important to be ambitious and smart without coming off as conceited. When we feel the need to apologize for speaking up, we automatically discredit the statement following the apology.
Confidence is key. Everyone is their own person and has their own unique ideas. No one is going to have identical ideas and beliefs as you. You have the opportunity every day to better yourself and make a difference in the world. However, you can't do this by staying silent.
Polite is different than feeling ashamed to speak your mind. Although this is a hard habit to break, remain persistent. So take risks! Have a confident opinion and see where it leads you. And remember... stop apologizing!
