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Last month I wrote about taking bold action to drive the change you want to see. The message seemed to have struck a chord. Inspired by my readers鈥� comments, I decided to write about another way we can be bold: taking up space.

Taking up space in this context is about standing up for your opinions, wants, and needs. It is giving voice to your truth. It means being able to express yourself 鈥� articulate your position, share your passions, engage in a robust dialogue, or deliver compelling work. In doing so, it is a demonstration of healthy self-respect. It is intrinsically valuing your worth. It is not about being stubborn, resistant, demanding, or self-serving; rather it is understanding your value and being committed to sharing it within your organization.

Obliterate the imposter syndrome

Many successful professionals suffer from imposter syndrome. We imagine that at some point someone is going to discover that we don鈥檛 entirely know what we are doing. By learning to take up more space, we can begin to put more of our real selves into our work world. We can admit what we don鈥檛 know. We can be an advocate for what we care about. We can embrace a flexible, open, growth mindset that values learning over the ego鈥檚 desire for control and protection. It can be incredibly vulnerable 鈥� and immensely gratifying. As we gain confidence, we feel liberated to be even more authentic. As we own our strengths and internalize our accomplishments, we stop carrying the extra weight of the imposter syndrome.

Consider the way you contribute

It is fundamental in any meaningful collaboration for each team member to contribute. How you contribute shapes the very culture of your organization and helps define your team norms. Taking up space is an opportunity to contribute in a way that only you can. It can feel risky. It will also feel much more alive than playing it safe on the sidelines. Your contribution can serve as a role model of empowered engagement. By taking up space, you are coming to the table as a worthy collaborator!

Express yourself

Each one of us has our own unique way of being in the world. In business speak, I call it one鈥檚 professional brand. It is what you are known for; it is how people perceive you; it is your communication style; your work style; how you relate to others; and what you stand for. Essentially, it is how you consistently show up.

Taking up space requires putting intentional, authentic energy into our work. When we are experiencing work in a way that does not work for us, the first place we can investigate is how we are showing up. This is not about blaming ourselves if we are operating in a dysfunctional or toxic work environment; but it is about taking personal accountability to influence and shape your work experience. That translates to experiencing a higher level of agency and autonomy. It can have the added benefit of more trust in your workplace. When people know what you think and feel about issues, when they know where they stand with you, and when they know who you are, you are building trust. Trust evolves when you come from a place of honesty and integrity. Trust also blossoms when we extend it to others. By showing up authentically, we are telling our teammates that we trust they will honor that vulnerability.

Create a sense of belonging

As you may have read (likely in a past column of mine), the U.S. Surgeon General has declared an epidemic of loneliness. Let that sink in. LONELINESS is an epidemic. I believe our workplaces can be a part of the solution.

By taking up space, you are also declaring, 鈥淚 belong here. My work matters.鈥�

We can create workplaces that celebrate each person鈥檚 unique strengths, perspectives, and lived experiences. We can create psychologically safe environments that encourage people to be real and to know they are valued. This by no way precludes robust discussions with differences of opinions or navigating tough conversations. Real belonging requires being real with ourselves and each other.

Take the K Challenge:

What might it look like for you to take up more space? The answer will be unique to the individual but should involve stretching outside your comfort zone!

• Participate fully in meetings or trainings
• Offer ideas
• Say what you mean
• Ask for what you want/need
• Provide thoughtful feedback
• Productively raise questions or concerns
• Take initiative
• Lead (an assignment, a meeting, a project, a team, a discussion, etc.)
• Set healthy boundaries of your time and energy. Saying no is a powerful way to own your space and stand for your value.
• Listen to a colleague without trying to fix their issues. It is a quieter version, but it is pure gold if you can create sacred space for someone else to show up genuinely.
• Give your best. Don鈥檛 hold back.

Taking up space is boldness in action. It can inspire creativity and ignite confidence. It is taking a stand 鈥� and a responsibility 鈥� for creating a thriving, inclusive and intentional work environment.

How will you experiment with taking up more space? Keep me posted! I am always seeking worthy collaborators!

Karen Natzel is a business therapist who helps leaders create healthy, vibrant and high-performing organizations. Contact her at 503-806-4361 or [email protected].

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed in the preceding commentary are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Daily Journal of Commerce or its editors. Neither the author nor the 91视频 guarantees the accuracy or completeness of any information published herein.