Why You Don’t Need to Be the Loudest in the Room
With a Real-Life Lesson from My Journey
I often find myself in rooms where the loudest voices take over. Early on, I thought confidence meant speaking the loudest, being an extrovert, taking up the most space, and never showing hesitation. I was always an introvert. But I quickly learned that true confidence isn't about being loud. It's about knowing when to speak and listen. I also realized that speaking is ok only when you have something to say.
A Lesson from my Journey
There was a time when I was the only woman and the only Black woman in the room where I was a manager fresh out of college. I usually listened as ideas bounced around, and though I had insights to share, I hesitated and never said a word. I was worried about how I'd be perceived. Then, a manager turned to me and asked, "Christina, what do you think?"
That moment changed everything. I realized my voice mattered, even in a space with only outspoken men. When I finally spoke, I wasn't loud, I was myself. I was thoughtful and intentional. And guess what? My ideas were heard. I gained confidence in that moment.
I was able to be myself while owning the room.
What This Lesson Taught Me About Confidence
Confidence isn't about being the loudest. It is about being the most prepared.
You don't have to compete with the loudest person in the room—sometimes, the most powerful person is the one who listens first and then speaks with purpose.
Your presence matters, even before you say a word.
If you've ever felt pressure to be more extroverted to be seen or heard, know this: confidence isn't about being loud—it's about owning who you are.
Have you ever struggled with feeling unheard in a room full of loud voices? Share your experience. I would love to hear how you navigated those moments!