Finding Your Voice: Why Speaking Up Changes Everything

August 31, 2025•2 min read

Part 1: The Silent Struggle — What Staying Quiet Is Really Costing You

Have you ever walked away from a conversation replaying what you should have said? Maybe you kept quiet in a meeting because you didn’t want to sound “wrong.” Maybe you bit your tongue with a friend because you didn’t want to upset them. Maybe you silenced yourself because speaking up felt too risky.

In the moment, silence feels safe.
But here’s the truth: silence has a cost.

The Hidden Costs of Staying Quiet

Silence doesn’t just mean unspoken words. Over time, it quietly reshapes your life.

Missed opportunities: Promotions, recognition, and even new relationships often go to the voices that are heard.
Strained connections: Unspoken feelings create distance, tension, and misunderstandings.
Worn-down confidence: Each time you hold back, it reinforces the idea that your voice isn’t valuable.
Stress on your body: Silence can show up as tight shoulders, racing thoughts, or restless nights.

Silence may feel protective in the short term, but in the long run, it can keep you from living fully.

You’re Not Alone

If this sounds familiar, you’re not broken. Many people feel stuck in the cycle of staying quiet—even when they want to speak up.

And here’s the good news: silence doesn’t have to be your story forever.

What’s Next

In Part 2 of this series, we’ll explore why so many people stay quiet—and how silence, at one point, might have felt like survival.

Because once you understand the “why,” you can finally begin rewriting the story.

💬 Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re exploring services for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to support your growth, confidence, and communication journey.

📞 Contact us here: https://www.sdctherapyinc.com/contact
🌐 Learn more or book a consultation: sdctherapyinc.com

It’s not just therapy—it’s your transformation.

Sheridan Cotrell

I (Sheridan) used to be that visionary business owner with all the balls in the air. I had my master's degree in speech therapy and created a six-figure consulting business in that field. But I didn’t stop there. I created another six-figure business as a health coach, and then one as a business coach for good measure. But the whole time I was trading time for money. I worked a zillion hours a week. Don’t believe me? I have five kids, and in addition to the work stuff, I was an available and committed mother to my children – doing the laundry, ferrying them to activities, and on and on... By outward measures, I looked successful, but on the inside, I was mentally and physically exhausted. I had hit a ceiling in my income and every incremental increase required more from me. I was in constant striving mode, trying to push myself to constantly do more. Until it all fell apart (even typing that makes me quake remembering). I had a major health crisis that caused me to pull the plug on 95% of my business. Almost everything came to a full stop. Which was the best gift I ever received. You see, working hard and learning more skills is not enough. Heart, vision and best intentions are not enough. It’s embarrassing to admit, but I didn’t know what I was doing even though it looked like I did.

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