speech on express yourself

What Is Self-Expression? (20 Activities + Examples)

We all have our own unique quirks and traits, and we all have our own preferences and style for sharing pieces of ourselves with those around us.

You likely have a different level of sharing comfort with each person in your life—like a sort of security clearance in which those closest to you have a “Level 5” clearance while acquaintances have a “Level 1” clearance.

How we share and express ourselves to others forms the basis of our personality, as understood by everyone but us, and sets the tone for our entire lives. It’s a vital aspect of life to pay attention to, especially if you want to feel more understood and more in tune with the people you care about.

The way that we share ourselves is known as self-expression, and it turns out there are a lot of ways to do it. There are few “wrong” ways of expressing yourself, but there are some things you can do that give you a better chance of hearing and being heard than others.

Read on to learn how to more effectively express yourself to others, get in touch with your authentic self, and enhance your self-expression skills.

Before you read on, we thought you might like to download our three Self-Compassion Exercises for free . These detailed, science-based exercises will not only help you increase the compassion and kindness you show yourself but will also give you the tools to help your clients, students or employees show more compassion to themselves.

This Article Contains:

What is the meaning of self-expression a definition, self-expression theory in psychology, the importance of self-expression, examples of self-expression, how to improve self-expression skills, techniques for developing self-expression, activities to increase self-expression for adults, project ideas and worksheets (pdf), self-expression through photography, art, music, dance, fashion and poetry, does social media promote self-expression, books on self-expression, 13 self-expression quotes, a take-home message.

I think we all have a pretty good handle on what self-expression is, but let’s see how the experts define it:

“We define self-expression as expressing one’s thoughts and feelings, and these expressions can be accomplished through words, choices or actions.”

(Kim & Ko, 2007).

This is an intuitive definition—self-expression is, at its core, the action of expressing yourself, and it can take a wide variety of forms. You can use your words, your facial expressions, your body, your movements, clothing, actions, and possessions to express your authentic inner self .

Although the idea is simple, it seems that few fully grasp the importance of self-expression. We are all so bogged down with messages about how we should look, think, speak, and act; what we should eat and drink and study and do for fun; who we should associate with and who we should love or despise; and, indeed, who we should be deep down.

These constant missives about what we ought to do and who we ought to be can make it difficult to let go of expectations and simply be ourselves.

The last paragraph may have resonated with you—as it resonates with me—but as we’ll see later, the value we have for self-expression is not a universally shared value.

For example, Kim and Ko (2007) note that self-expression is one of the most highly-regarded and venerated values in Western civilization due to the near-deification of “the individual” in our society. Not only is self-expression a vital practice of Western culture, it is also baked into the very roots of psychology. After all, psychology is all about the study of the mind, including the self, others, and groups of people.

The way we learn about the mind is through the expression of individuals—verbally or otherwise (Kim & Ko, 2007).

While those of us in the West have embraced individualistic norms and practices, including self-expression, other cultures have upheld collectivist values and—in some cases—placed little to no value on individualism. For instance, the Arab world is less prone to individualistic views and more likely to value tradition, religion, and authority (Inglehart et al., 2014).

Self-Expression Values

The differences across cultures and countries in the values they hold are fascinating; as noted above, countries in the Middle East are generally at the opposite end of the spectrum from Western countries on the two major axes of values:

• Traditional versus secular-rational values
• Survival values versus self-expression values (Inglehart et al., 2014)

Countries in North America and Western Europe generally fall on the secular-rational end (although the US and Ireland are two outliers when it comes to religion and tradition) and the self-expression end of the spectrums.

This indicates that Western countries tend to place less importance on traditional family values, religion, and obedience and more importance on environmental protection, social justice, and tolerance of different viewpoints and ways of life (Inglehart et al., 2014).

East Asia countries generally fall in the secular-rational/survival values section (as seen below), meaning they do not place as much importance on tradition and religion, but they place great value on economic and physical security.

The Inglehart-Welzel World Cultural Map – World Values Survey 7 (2022). Source: http://www.worldvaluessurvey.org/

In some places, self-expression values might be considered “indicative of egoism and weak social capital” instead of the key to happiness and actualization that many Western countries consider them to be (Welzel, 2010). Needless to say, the value placed on self-expression varies widely across cultures and countries.

Not only are the differences in self-expression values interesting, they raise a good point: can there be a comprehensive theory of self-expression that encompasses and explains self-expression across the globe?

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Related to our discussion above, the importance of self-expression will vary depending on your location and the culture you are steeped in. As the World Values Survey showed, individualism is not highly valued in many countries. This fact makes the sentence below—a pretty tame idea by Western standards—anything from mildly strange to outright laughable in another context.

“The journey of self-discovery is the most important journey we can take”

(De la Huerta, 2014).

In many cultures, a journey of self-discovery would be considered odd, unusual, a waste of time, or even selfish; the people might say something like, “Why spend your time and effort on getting to know yourself? Just ask your family—they’ll tell you exactly who you are!”

However, given the largely Western audience of positive psychology, we’ll focus on the importance of self-expression in this context.

De la Huerta’s (2014) article provides a good brief overview of why self-expression is so important in our society. He argues that self-expression is a vital piece of the puzzle that is fulfillment in life ; it allows us to be our best selves, reach our full potential, and make valuable contributions to the world we live in.

Authentic self-expression is how we embrace who we are, all the way from the positive traits and acts we keep on the surface to the darker and less valued pieces of ourselves that we bury deep down.

“Neuroscience is teaching us that ‘self-expression’ might be one – if not the most important ways for people to connect, navigate and grow with each other.”

Judith Glaser

Research Judith Glaser agrees on the importance of self-expression; she notes that authentic self-expression not only encourages us to be the best we can be, it allows us to work effectively with others. When we open up and express ourselves, we move from what she calls a state of protection (coddling our ego and manning our inner walls to protect ourselves) to a state of partnering (being open to sharing yourself with others and vice versa).

According to Glaser, this state is where we get our best and most innovative work done. Acting in alignment with our authentic selves activates our prefrontal cortex, giving us greater access to our higher-order abilities like creative and innovative thinking, problem-solving, and planning.

Two artists and educators, Jay M. Hanes and Eleanor Weisman, agree that self-expression is not only important for our relationship with ourselves and our relationships with others, it’s also vital for our work. They propose that we learn about ourselves through expressing ourselves, reflecting on our core self and engaging in creative learning that will benefit us in all walks of life and all disciplines and industries (Hanes & Weisman, 2016).

This may sound like an exaggeration, but it’s not—people around you are expressing themselves every day in many ways, all you need to do is look for it.

Common ways that people in your life might express themselves include:

• Sharing details about their day and how it made them feel.
• Wearing an off-trend or outdated item of clothing, not to be cool and unique, but just because they like it.
• Playing guitar on the street without a hat, cup, or other container set up to take donations.
• Yelling to express their frustration about traffic or other hindrances to getting from A to B.
• Employing body language (either consciously or unconsciously) that tells you exactly how someone feels about him- or her-self, whether it’s tall and proud, slumped and defeated, or anywhere in between.

If you were so inclined, I’m sure you could come up with a list of 100 acts of expression that you saw in the last week alone. That’s probably not necessary—I’m sure you have a good grasp on what self-expression is—but it’s important to be reminded how often people share themselves with us and how often we have the opportunity to share ourselves with others in our daily lives.

Why can’t I express myself? – Rafael Eliassen

As with most skills, the best way to improve your self-expression skills is to practice them! Self-expression skills include—but are not limited to—the following:

• Body language
• Artistic endeavors (creating music, dancing, etc.)

Author and student learning guru John Ramos agrees; in an answer to the question-and-answer forum Quora, he provides the following pieces of advice (2016):

• Write (almost) everyday… It forces you to find the right words and expressions to convey your message.
• Emulate your favorite authors’ styles. (Note: you could also emulate your favorite poets, dancers, orators, musicians, etc.).
• Never lose a chance to speak in public.
• Apply winning formulas (particularly for public speaking, as there are many tricks and “secret weapons” to help you succeed).

All of the exercises, techniques, activities, and strategies listed below will give you great opportunities to practice your own self-expression skills!

Peggy Schmidt from Scholastic Parents proposes the following seven strategies (and several techniques to implement these strategies) to encourage a child to build their self-expression skills:

• Teach your child to interpret spoken and body language. a. Look at photographs of people expressing different emotions and discuss them. b. Cut out a cardboard frame to act as a “mirror” and have your child(ren) mimic your expression and identify it. c. Use everyday situations in your home to reinforce these lessons. d. Make a game of identifying the emotions that go with a particular tone of voice.
• Reinforce the concept of “personal space” by encouraging your child to: a. Stay at arm’s length when he or she is talking to someone. b. Make sure there’s space between him or her and other children when sitting together. c. Avoid hugging someone he or she doesn’t know well. d. Refrain from intruding on another child’s space by touching, pinching, or physically annoying him or her.
• Explain the meaning of idiomatic expressions (explain jokes, idioms, puns, “turns of phrases,” etc.).
• Work on the art of conversation. a. Initiate conversations with your child, particularly when there are no salient distractions around. b. When you don’t understand something your child says, ask your child what he or she means. c. Encourage your child to ask you questions and respond attentively to them. d. Make good eye contact and ask your child to do the same. e. Encourage your child to stay in control of his or her body when he is talking—no fidgeting or squirming! f. Work at having successively longer conversations as he or she gets better at self-expression. g. Have conversations with your child about things beyond routine, everyday stuff.
• Model behavior that teaches the smart way to ask for help or a favor. a. Explain what the favor is. b. Rehearse what you’re going to say when you ask for the favor. c. Have your child listen to your conversation.
• Demonstrate the power of “please” and “thank you” as more than just good manners, but excellent tools.
• Teach your child how to listen and follow directions. a. Get his or her attention through touch as well as your voice. b. Be specific about what you want him or her to do. c. Check for understanding when you ask your child to do something. d. Compliment your child on following the directions and successfully completing the task (Schmidt, 2001).

With pre-teens and teens, you may want to upgrade your techniques and make things more organic. Follow these 10 tips from the Scholastic Parents Staff to encourage self-expression in your pre-teens and teens:

• Encourage your child to dance to express him- or herself (a dance-focused video game might be helpful here).
• Help your child design a website or blog to share his or her thoughts and feelings with family and friends, or include your child in the process of writing a family newsletter.
• Do a creative and expressive craft with your child, like creating jewelry or painting something without any constraints.
• Celebrate your child’s style by allowing him or her to dress however they’d like (given that it’s age-appropriate).
• Support your child engaging in sports, whether solo sports, team sports, or both.
• Encourage your child to mentor younger children to practice their own skills and do a good deed.
• Give your child a camera and let him or her snap away!
• Get outdoors and do a nature-oriented activity together (e.g., take a walk, go for a hike, do some gardening).
• Ask your child to take you on a guided tour of his or her classroom, the library, or somewhere else he or she spends a lot of time.
• Help your child make a video documentary about him- or herself, including their current likes and dislikes, strengths , interests, and passions (Eulberg, n.d.).

If you’re looking for techniques to enhance your own self-expression skills, there are some helpful general tips that can give you some guidance. Give these six tips a try:

• Speak your truth in the moment. Instead of looking back on a conversation and wishing you had been more honest and authentic, commit to being more honest and authentic in the moment. Promise yourself to speak your truth when the opportunity arises, but make sure to speak it with love and kindness .
• Widely define yourself. As psychiatrist Thomas Szasz notes, “…the self is not something that one finds. It is something that one creates.” Make sure that your definitions aren’t overly narrow or limiting and keep yourself open to new experiences, talents, interests, passions, and opportunities.
• Engage in creative techniques. Use techniques that harness your creativity to expand your potential and enhance your life. Try keeping a daily journal in which you write about whatever comes to mind, keeping an idea book that you carry with you all the time, creating mind maps to help you problem-solve, practicing brainstorming, and creating vision boards to motivate you to follow your dreams.
• Acquire self-knowledge – Know who you are. Don’t let yourself get too caught up in all of life’s little worries; take a break from your daily grind once in a while and assess your life and your feelings about it. Use introspection and reflection to make sure you never become a stranger to yourself.
• Pursue wants and passions voraciously. If your passions and dreams have become victims to the day-to-day stressors, dedicate yourself to keeping them off the metaphorical “back burner.” Make time to pursue your dreams and feed your passions—you won’t regret it!
• Develop a keen sense of reality. Your head may venture into the clouds, but your feet should stay firmly on the ground; keep in touch with reality and face your disappointments, setbacks, and unpleasant experiences head-on (“How to Live with Full Self-Expression”, n.d.).

These are somewhat general tips, but truly committing to them will help you become the master of your own self-expression. For some more specific, practical ideas on improving your self-expression, read on.

This section includes 15 activities that you may find useful (plus a link to 70 more!).

To work on improving your capacity for self-expression and encourage your practice of being authentically you, you may find this impressively long list of 75 group activities from the Expressive Therapist website helpful. It includes activities like:

• Inner Child : Draw yourself as a child on your paper. Add images and words to give this child everything that it needs, including a supportive nurturing parent.
• Inside – Outside Bags/Boxes : Decorate a bag or box with images and words on the outside to represent the qualities you show to the world. Decorate the inside of the bag or box with images and words that represent the inner qualities that are hidden to most people.
• Inspired Poem : Think of a quote that is meaningful to you and write it at the top of a piece of paper. (A list can be found at http://www.goodreads.com/quotes ) Add your own lines below it that expand on the quote in the way you understand it – continue for the rest of the page. Find someone in the group to read your poem for you as you use movement or gesture to express the meaning of your poem.
• Four Elements of You : Discussion: Passion gives us the will to live and gives shape to our lives. Fold your paper into four sections. Label each section, The Earth of Me, The Air of Me, The Fire of Me, and The Water of Me. Use image and color to express your passion in life as symbolized by the four elements.
• Bardic Circle : Sitting in a circle, everyone takes a turn sharing something with the group, such as performing a song, a dance, a poem, a joke, or an interesting fact, or teaching a new skill. Everyone is encouraged to be supportive and attentive when others share.

If you’re working your way through addiction, rehabilitation, recovery, or perhaps even striving towards post-traumatic growth , these activities from Summit Behavioral Health (2015) might help:

• Listen to music to help you identify your feelings; if you are in a group, share out what you learned.
• Take a mindful walk (stay aware of yourself and your surroundings, make observations about your environment, and avoid judgment as much as possible).
• Write a new ending to a previous event, particularly an event that involved conflict, bad decisions, or mistakes on your part. This will help you learn how to make better choices and stay more optimistic.
• Build, create, or restore something to encourage yourself on your own journey toward a healthier, happier you.
• Create a visual journal using signs, symbols, drawings, or anything else to express your feelings aside from words.

If you’re interested in enhancing your self-expression specifically in the workplace , Judith Glaser has some great suggestions (2016):

• Consider taking on a project like Glaser’s Children’s World, in which she and her team collected stories and pictures from schoolchildren, compiled them into a book, and actually published it (side note: it included material from over 500 students!).
• Kick off a meeting by asking people to share a recent personal story and a business story that they are enthusiastic or excited about.
• Complete the “What I Respect About You and What I Need From You” exercise to get to know your team better and identify strengths, needs, likes and dislikes, and how to avoid certain pitfalls with your colleagues.
• Collect your team’s success stories and publish them in a book, pamphlet, or brochure.
• Publish your organization’s success stories on your company intranet and solicit advice and suggestions from your organization’s members on how to achieve future success.

Music is considered a universal “language of the emotions” (Cooke, 1959).

Through music, we can evoke complex emotions and create mood states that might be difficult to categorize as positive or negative by only using words. Even before a baby is born, exposing a fetus to music helps the brain develop, calms and soothes, brings up emotions of love and joy, and strengthens the mother-child relationship (UNICEF, 2022).

Scientist John Stuart Reid (2019) discovered that music can even support our bodies to heal naturally by awakening our red blood cells. An increased red blood cell amount leads to a decrease in chronic pain, high blood pressure, poor immune system, stress, depression, and traumas.

Ask your client to write down three songs that describe how they are feeling at the moment. Reflect on the following questions with your client:

• When you hear this song, what comes to your mind?
• How does this song make you feel?
• Which part of the song is the most important to you?

This exercise aims to help your clients communicate feelings and concerns by using music as a multi-dimensional medium to “translate” personal experiences. Because your client will identify and describe the upcoming emotions, emotional awareness can be further developed through this technique.

Those fond of making lists, checking boxes, drawing things out, and any other form of expression that involves using a pen and paper might find these projects and worksheets especially useful. There are also a few worksheets that you can use with your child to encourage their own capacity for self-expression. Read on to get some ideas!

Your Pet Worksheet

This worksheet encourages kids to think about how they express their thoughts and ideas. It can be used to encourage them to consider what details are important and which are superfluous, help them figure out how to best get the words into their head onto paper, and show them how to tie it all together into a clear, comprehensive narrative.

First, your child can fill in the “Main Idea” bubble in the center, writing about their pet, noting what kind of pet they have and what is most important to know about that pet.

Next, they can work on filling in the supportive details. The prompts can help them figure out what they should be writing and help them comes up with more ideas; these prompts include:

• How long have you had your pet?
• What is your pet’s name?
• Describe your pet’s personality—playful, loving, quiet, funny, loyal?
• What does your pet look like? Describe your pet.

Click here to read more about this worksheet or download it for your child (please note that a free account with Education.com is required to download some of their free resources).

All About Me Worksheet

This is another worksheet for kids that is simple, easy to complete, but helpful for your child’s writing and self-expression skills. It can also be helpful for handwriting practice, engaging in creative thinking, and breaking the ice with a new classmate.

First, the worksheet asks for just the basics:

• The child’s name
• The child’s place of birth

Next, the worksheet moves on to the more individual aspects of preferences and interests:

• Favorite colors
• Favorite hobbies
• Favorite foods to eat
• Favorite place to visit
• Favorite movie

Finally, the last three prompts are where your child can really get thoughtful, creative, and personal:

• “I laugh and smile when…”
• “I will make the world a better place by…”
• “My dream is to…”

To download this worksheet for use with your own child, click here (this worksheet is hosted on Education.com, which requires a free membership for the use of some of their resources).

What Makes Us Alike & Different

A final worksheet for kids focuses on similarities and differences between the child and others. Completing this worksheet can help your child not only learn more about other people, other cultures, and other ways of life, but it can also help him get to know himself better.

First, the worksheet explains that there are tons of people in the world, but we’re all different. We might come from different cultures, countries, or backgrounds, but we all have at least a few things in common.

Next, the child is instructed to compare him- or herself to a friend or family member and consider these questions:

• What makes you alike?
• What makes you different?

In the space below these instructions is a table split into three columns, one with each of the following headings:

• How you are alike
• What makes your friend different?

For each column, your child should think of some things that apply. How is she different from her friend? Where do the differences come from? Are they superficial, or pretty big differences?

Next, she can think about how she and her friend are alike. What do they have in common? What can they agree on or relate to one another about?

When your child has completed this worksheet, he will be more knowledgeable about different cultures, backgrounds, and lifestyles than before, and hopefully on his way to being tolerant and friendly to all.

Click here to download this worksheet from Education.com as well (like the previous worksheets, it requires a free membership to download).

Self-Expression Worksheet

This worksheet comes from SpiritSpring Coaching and offers you an opportunity to learn more about self-expression, get some suggestions on how to practice it more often, and work on engaging your self-expression muscles, so to speak. It references religion since SpiritSpring is a religious organization, but the activity itself does not require faith in any religion or spiritual being to successfully complete it.

First, you will respond to 10 statements about your current self-expression on a 3-point scale (seldom true, sometimes true, and often true). These statements are:

• I am inspired by and through authentic self-expression.
• I communicate what is in my heart.
• I express wholeness; there is no part of me or my life that is not fully embraced.
• My own words and actions reflect consciousness and clarity.
• My communication is honest, timely, and complete. I do not deceive, delay, or diminish when I speak my truth.
• I know when I am expressing myself authentically and when I’m not.
• I invite honesty and truth-telling.
• I am aware of the impact of my words and actions.
• My words and actions contribute in a positive way to myself and others.
• There is integrity between who I am, what I say and how I act.

For each statement, you will pick a response on the scale mentioned above and also provide an example of the statement in action in your life.

Next, you will answer some questions and respond to some prompts to help you get even more in touch with yourself and how you generally express yourself. These questions and prompts are:

• Describe a current situation in your life where you are being real.
• What’s at stake in that situation or relationship? What could you gain or lose?
• Describe a current situation where you have not been being real?
• What’s at stake in that situation? What could you gain or lose?
• What could you do to turn the second situation around, so that you’re being real?

By completing this worksheet, you will have discovered your approximate level of skill and practice in self-expression, identified an area in which you are best at expressing yourself and an area in which you are lagging in self-expression and come up with a plan to work on your weaknesses when it comes to expressing yourself. That’s a lot of punch to pack into one worksheet!

To give it a try, click here (clicking the link will begin a download of the worksheet).

The Five Messages Worksheet for Self-Expression and Self-Inquiry

Finally, this worksheet from The Seven Challenges Workbook is a great way to work on your self-expression skills. It covers the five main “messages” or elements of self-expression and guides you through identifying and considering each one.

The idea is that there are five “I messages” that correspond to five elements of experiencing and communicate different things to those around you.

The five elements and messages are:

1. “What actions, events, and/or sensations am I seeing, hearing, doing, remembering or otherwise sensing (the facts without evaluation)?” As I (or when I) see (hear, remember, take action about)…

2. “What basic emotions am I feeling (glad, sad, mad, delighted, frustrated, proud, sorry, ashamed, grateful, etc.) about those actions/events? …I feel (or felt)…

3. “What interpretations, evaluations, wants, hopes, needs, and/or dreams of mine help to evoke and support my feelings?” …because I…

4. “What action, information, discussion, help, or commitment do I want, would I like, and/or do I want to request now?” …and now I want (want to request)… [Something doable]

5. “What positive results or personal fulfilment do I envision that action, discussion, information, or commitment leading to?” …so that I can / so that we can / in order for me or us to…

Filling in the blanks on this worksheet will help you take a peek into your inner experience and understand it better in addition to expressing it better. At the end, you’ll have a sort of sentence describing your experience. It will look something like this, although customized to your situation:

“As I see [element 1]… I feel [element 2]… because I [element 3]… and now I want [element 4]… so that I can [element 5].”

This exercise is a great way to get in touch with your inner self and figure out what you want, what you value, your thought patterns and emotional tendencies, and discover how you can move forward.

Click here to download the worksheet (an automatic download will initiate when you click the link).

We often think of self-expression as involving speech and perhaps some actions as well—provided they are creative.

People have found wonderful outlets for self-expression through speaking and writing prose, but also through practicing photography, creating art, creating or sharing music, choreographing a dance routine (or coming up with some moves on the spot!), creating and/or wearing pieces that reflect your inner self, and crafting meaningful poems.

It’s true that creative activities are often a great way to express yourself, but don’t forget about the many other ways available to you! In truth, anytime you are behaving in accordance with your true, authentic self and doing anything other than sitting still, you are likely engaging in self-expression—although performance artists have certainly been able to express their thoughts and ideas through the act of simply sitting!

You might be thinking of another pretty obvious method we all have of expressing ourselves: social media. It is indeed one of our many options, but it could prove to be a double-edged sword.

There’s some debate about that, with persuasive arguments both for and against.

As far as research goes, researchers have studied the relationship between self-esteem , self-expression, and usage of the popular social media site Facebook, and found that social media may be seen as a valuable tool for expressing oneself for those with low self-esteem and/or social anxiety (Leighton, Legate, Lepine, Anderson, & Grahe, 2018).

However, as rapidly as social media changes, so too does our understanding of its effects on us; by 2016, social media users were likely to report that Instagram and Snapchat were useful tools for self-expression, but Facebook and Twitter were not (Leighton et al., 2018).

The bottom line? Social media certainly facilitates expression! But how much of that expression is an authentic expression of our true selves? That question has yet to be answered.

If you’re intrigued by self-expression or want to learn more about how to boost your own capacity for self-expression, you might benefit from some further reading. Take a look at these 9 books on the subject and see if any of them catch your fancy:

• Self-Expressions: Mind, Morals, and the Meaning of Life by Owen Flanagan ( Amazon )
• A Big New Free Happy Unusual Life: Self Expression and Spiritual Practice for Those Who Have Time for Neither by Nina Wise ( Amazon )
• Illness and the Art of Creative Self-Expression: Stories and Exercises from the Arts for Those with Chronic Illness by John Graham-Pole ( Amazon )
• Creative Photography Lab: 52 Fun Exercises for Developing Self-Expression with your Camera by Steve Sonheim and Carla Sonheim ( Amazon )
• Mastering the Art of Self-Expression by Laura Thoma ( Amazon )
• Self-Expression by Mitchell S. Green ( Amazon )
• Emotions Revealed: Recognizing Faces and Feelings to Improve Communication and Emotional Life by Paul Ekman ( Amazon )
• Creating Mandalas: For Insight, Healing, and Self-Expression by Susanne F. Fincher ( Amazon )
• Affirmations #1 For Health, Wealth, Relationships, and Self-Expression by Joseph Murphy ( Amazon )

17 Exercises To Foster Self-Acceptance and Compassion

Help your clients develop a kinder, more accepting relationship with themselves using these 17 Self-Compassion Exercises [PDF] that promote self-care and self-compassion.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

To get motivated, inspired, or in touch with your authentic self, sometimes a good quote can help. Check out these 13 quotes below.

“Good things will come from self-expression.”

“If you have the words, there’s always a chance that you’ll find the way.”

Seamus Heaney

“Everybody is talented because everybody who is human has something to express.”

Brenda Ueland

“If there’s one theme in all my work, it’s about authenticity and self-expression. It’s the idea that some things are, in some real sense, really you—or express what you and others aren’t.”

Bernard Williams

“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost.”

Martha Graham

“No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit.”

Ansel Adams

“Self-expression should not be a challenge that demands extraordinary talent but should be a right accessible to all.”

Deeyah Khan

“Self-expression is always a right, but it’s still not there to be abused.”

Isaac Hayes

“If we don’t believe in freedom of expression for people we despise, we don’t believe in it at all.”

Noam Chomsky

“Everyone has their own ways of expression. I believe we all have a lot to say, but finding ways to say it is more than half the battle.”

“To the poet fated to be a poet, self-expression is as natural and as involuntary as breathing is to us ordinary mortals.”

Octavio Paz

“If you copy then it is not self-expression.”

Michael Schenker

“I want freedom for the full expression of my personality.”

Mahatma Gandhi

I hope you found this piece helpful and informative, and I hope that I successfully expressed myself and my thoughts on this subject.

If you leave with one takeaway, let it be this: there is no downside to furthering your ability to express yourself, but there are tons of potential benefits. Learning to understand yourself and more effectively share that understanding with others is a fundamental part of being human, and we’re so lucky that we have so much influence over how that process unfolds!

Take advantage of that fact and you will avoid looking back with regret when you think about all the things you should have said.

What are your thoughts on self-expression? Do you think it’s one of the most important values in our society? Is it one of the most important values to you? How do you like to express yourself? Let us know in the comments!

Thanks for reading, and best of luck in enhancing your capacity for self-expression!

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Self Compassion Exercises for free .

• Cooke, F. L. (1959). The value of psychological treatment in general practice. Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners, 2(3) , 231-238
• De la Huerta, C. (2014). The power of self-expression. The Huffington Post . Retrieved from https://www.huffingtonpost.com/christian-de-la-huerta/the-power-of-self-expression_b_5167635.html
• Eulberg, E. (n.d.). 10 activities to encourage self-expression in pre-teens. Scholastic Parents. Retrieved from https://www.scholastic.com/parents/family-life/social-emotional-learning/social-skills-for-kids/10-activities-to-encourage-self-expression.html
• Glaser, J. E. (2016). Self-expression: The neuroscience of co-creation. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/conversational-intelligence/201602/self-expression
• Hanes, J. M., & Weisman, E. (2016). Experience and expression. Education and Culture, 32(2), 64-79.
• “How to Live with Full Self-Expression.” (n.d.). Virtues for Life. Retrieved from http://www.virtuesforlife.com/how-to-live-with-full-self-expression/
• Inglehart, R., C. Haerpfer, A. Moreno, C. Welzel, K. Kizilova, J. Diez-Medrano, M. Lagos, P. Norris, E. Ponarin & B. Puranen et al. (Eds.). 2014. World Values Survey: Round Five – Country-Pooled Datafile Version: www.worldvaluessurvey.org/WVSDocumentationWV5.jsp. Madrid, Spain: JD Systems Institute.
• Kim, H. S., & Ko, D. (2007). Culture and self-expression. In C. Sedikides & S. Spencer (Eds.), Frontiers of social psychology: The self (pp. 325-342). New York, US: Psychology Press.
• Leighton, D. C., Legate, N., LePine, S., Anderson, S. F., & Grahe, J. (2018). Self-esteem, self-disclosure, self-expression, and connection on Facebook: A collaborative replication meta-analysis. Psi Chi Journal of Psychological Research, 23, 98-109.
• Ramos, J. (2016). Answer: How do I improve my expression skills? Quora. Retrieved from https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-improve-my-expression-skills
• Reid, J. S. (2019). Cymatics, the science of visible sound and vibration. Journal of Science and Healing, 15(4) , 262-269.
• Schmidt, P. (2001). Communication is key: Try these 7 strategies to build your child’s self-expression skills. Scholastic Parents. Retrieved from http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=1439
• Summit Behavioral Health. (2016). 5 activities of self-expression to make dealing with emotions in recovery easier. Summit Addiction Recovery Blog. Retrieved from https://www.summitbehavioralhealth.com/blog/5-activities-self-expression-make-dealing-emotions-recovery-easier/
• UNICEF. (2022). The State of the World’s Children 2022: Childhood under threat. UNICEF. https://www.unicef.org/media/118821/file/SOWC-2022.pdf
• Welzel, C. (2010). How selfish are self-expression values? A civicness test. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 41 , 152-174.

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What our readers think.

A note that “e. Encourage your child to stay in control of his or her body when he is talking—no fidgeting or squirming!” is harmful – it was from an old source and it’s since become consensus that stimming is healthy self-regulating behavior and that suppressing it can cause or worsen things like anxiety, over- or understimulation, difficulty with attention, and excess energy, especially for neurodivergent people. I’d caution against teaching “d. Refrain from intruding on another child’s space by touching” too – research shows that cultures that avoid physical contact have worse wellbeing. So it’s better to teach children to keep physical contact to friendly, casual settings and people they get along with and to check in and ask others if they feel comfortable with it.

I really appreciated this well written article, especially how parents can help children. I also appreciated that you mentioned just sitting and doing nothing is a form of self- expression, or whatever you feel is a way of expressing yourself. For example, if you are inclined toward helping others, then volunteering at a food bank or for Hospice would be considered a form of self- expression. There are countless things that only require a person’s time in order to express themselves. This country is filled with people like that. We all learned that during the early days of the pandemic when we were in quarantine. We saw so many ways people were giving of their talents and their time to make life easier for all of us. If that isn’t a form of self- expression, I don’t know what is! I’ll never forget Andrew Lloyd Weber showing us all his musicals for everyone to enjoy, and inviting others to send videos of them singing his songs. Or John Krasinski starting “Some Good News,” to uplift us all. They shared their self-expression with everyone. The newscasters even gave us ideas to try something new. That greatly enhanced the self-expression of the entire country, and helped us to see how important it is in our lives, even with little or no money. We saw the highest form of self -expression; love in action. Doesn’t cost a dime. Thanks for writing this article to remind us all of that .

Thank you so much for the article. You gave us very useful information and almost everything, one needs to look for to understand self-expression. Your content, especially at the end was intended for children and parents and for adults too, which is good. I want to point out that Self-Expression in western nations is not as good as you presented since capitalism and materialistic mindset is still highly prevalent in western nations(Side note- you used all researches really well to explain).Also I would like to invite you to study Indian traditional philosophies and teachers who placed the importance of self-realization as the basis of their traditions. Thank You.

This was a beautiful article. Welldone!!

Thank you, helpful article

Thank you. This article opened a whole new space in my head

Great Article! Very helpful. I see the effort you have put into it. Congrats!

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Home › Express Yourself Better: A Guide to Self Expression

Express Yourself Better: A Guide to Self Expression

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. See our disclosure for more info.

Knowing how to express yourself is crucial for living an authentic life. It helps you to keep in touch with who you really are, and is a key component of confidence.

Therefore, it is important that you take time to understand yourself and find ways you can express yourself comfortably.

Page Contents

Self Expression Meaning

Self-expression is the ability to convey your thoughts, feelings, and ideas effectively, authentically, and without fear of judgment or rejection. There are various channels of self-expression, including speech, writing, music, art, fashion, etc.

Many people hide their true feelings and who they are. Avoidance and hiding are also learned behaviors due to negative responses you might have received from others when you authentically expressed yourself. Therefore, you hold back from expressing yourself due to fear of emotional hurt, being shamed, ridiculed, disapproved, or rejected.

However, suppressing who you are, your feelings and your ideas inhibit your ability to live authentically . It can also lead to communication problems or strained relationships.

Self-expression is crucial for personal development and growth and living a happy life . It requires you to explore your thoughts, emotions, values and needs leading to self-awareness and a deeper understanding of yourself. It also allows you to own your identity be authentic.

Furthermore, self-expression can inspire creativity, connection with others, and foster a sense of belonging. Ultimately, it promotes mental and emotional well-being.

How to Express Yourself

Here are some tips on how to express yourself better. Not everyone will feel the same about them, or even choose to do all of them, but that’s ok!

We all express ourselves in different ways, which is part of the fun of living and learning.

1. Understand the Ways You Can Express Yourself

There are many different forms of self-expression, including:

Verbal Communication

It is a powerful form of self-expression that includes both speaking and writing. This channel of communication allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and ideas through language.

Verbal communication can be structural or creative. It can be used in a variety of settings, including personal conversations, public speaking, and online communication. It is also a powerful tool for establishing a deeper level of connection with others as it enables you to share your perspectives, communicate your needs, learn from others, etc.

Verbal communication allows you to convey information and expresses your personality, values, and emotions.

Improving your verbal communication skills enables you to interact and engage with others more effectively. Speak clearly and concisely . Take time to enunciate your words and avoid speaking too fast. Make eye contact with other people and use your body language effectively to support what you are saying. Practice active listening and make an effort to understand the other person’s point of view.

Although verbal communication is one of the most commonly used channels for self-expression, some people are uncomfortable with it. If it is not your preferred method of self-expression, explore other forms of expression and identify what you’re comfortable with or which is most effective for you.

Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication involves using your body language, facial expressions, gestures, tone of voice, and silence to convey your attitude and emotions that may not be explicitly stated. Sometimes, non-verbal communication expresses more than the actual words being said.

You can intentionally use non-verbal communication to express yourself. However, be aware that non-verbal communication carries the risk of misinterpretation. It is also culturally influenced, and different gestures and expressions may have varying meanings in different contexts and cultures.

The use of non-verbal communication also varies depending on personal factors such as mood, past experiences, and personality. For example, if one has experienced trauma, their non-verbal communication can indicate defensiveness or fear.

Artistic and Creative Expression

Some people prefer to express themselves artistically or creatively through various art forms such as drawing, painting , dance, sports, martial arts, sculpting, music , theatre, etc.

For some people, artistic expression is their way of communicating their inner thoughts and emotions in ways they cannot, either through verbal or non-verbal communication.

Although artistic expression can be aligned with your career or purpose, it could also be simply an interest or hobby. Furthermore, artistic expression has numerous benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive functioning. It can be used as a therapeutic tool for personal growth and healing.

Personal Style

Your personal style concerns how you dress, groom, and present yourself to the world. Different factors influence it, including culture, personal preference, and self-identity.

Your style tells a lot about your personality, self-identity, values, and interests. For example, if you like to dress in brightly-colored clothes, it may communicate that you are confident and outgoing . On the other hand, if you like to dress in simple designs and muted tones, it may indicate that you are reserved.

Some people’s personal style includes unconventional hairstyles and clothing to express their desire to break free from societal expectations or as a way of expressing their unique identity. You can use your personal style to challenge social norms and express your individuality. It can also be a source of self-confidence and personal empowerment.

Lifestyle Choices

Your lifestyle can also be a form of self-expression. The people you associate with, how you spend your time, and where you spend your money can reflect your priorities, values, interest, and worldview.

For example, becoming a vegetarian can express your commitment to environmental sustainability and animal welfare. On the other hand, travel can be a way to express your desire for exploration and your curiosity about new experiences. Overall, your lifestyle choices should be in alignment with your personal values.

2. Understand Yourself

When you understand yourself, you express yourself better. Understanding yourself enables you to identify your thoughts, feelings, emotions, ideas, opinions, perspectives, and preferences so that you can communicate them to others more effectively. It fosters authenticity and confidence.

Therefore, take time to reflect on who you are. What are your values and beliefs? What motivates you? What does success mean to you? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your personality traits? When do you feel empowered and confident? Which activities do you enjoy? What is your life’s purpose?

Introspection, journaling, and self-inquiry are great tools for self-discovery. They will help you to gain insight into your emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors.

Other ways to better understand yourself include practicing mindfulness, taking a personality test, and seeking feedback from friends, family members, and colleagues.

Practicing mindfulness can help you to cultivate self-awareness. On the other hand, taking a personality test will enable you to better understand your personality traits, how you relate with others and your behaviors.

3. Choose Your Preferred Means of Expression

The best forms of self-expression vary from person to person. There is no one right way; it all depends on your preference and what resonates with you. This is why going on a self-discovery journey is important to understand who you are, what you like, and the best ways to express yourself.

When deciding on the best ways to express yourself, consider your interests and what comes naturally to you. Perhaps you are talkative and like to engage with people directly through words. Or, you prefer to write, e.g., journaling or poetry. Maybe you are good at playing instruments or drawing.

Write down the different ways you like to express yourself. Also, experiment with other forms of self-expression. You may discover a new form of self-expression that you enjoy.

4. Acknowledge Your Anxieties and Risks Toward Self-Expression

It is normal to feel anxious about expressing yourself. However, don’t let it hold you back. You can overcome the anxiety and fear. To overcome these anxieties and fears, identify what is holding you back from authentically expressing yourself. Perhaps you worry that you are not good enough. Or you fear being judged or rejected.

Recognize and acknowledge that self-expression comes with a risk of disapproval, rejection, or misunderstanding. Yet, deliberately choose to express yourself in ways that are comfortable for you.

You may also notice that your mind is bombarded with self-criticism or negative self-talk. Challenge the negative thoughts and reframe them with more positive and empowering thoughts.

Ease into self-expression in small ways that feel safe and comfortable to you. For example, talking to a trusted or expressing your thoughts and emotions through journaling. Then, over time, try other forms of self-expression.

If you have difficulty managing and overcoming your fears and anxieties of self-expression, seek support from a professional such as a therapist or coach. They will help you identify your core anxieties and fears and their source and offer coping tools.

5. Accept That Not Everyone Will Accept You

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone accepted and approved of us? Unfortunately, that is not the reality. Beliefs, values, personality, and preferred methods of self-expression vary from person to person, and so do what we consider as acceptable ways of self-expression.

Therefore, it is okay that not everyone will accept you or how you express yourself. You cannot control other people’s actions, thoughts, or how they respond to you. However, their acceptance, disapproval, or rejection does not define your worth.

You are worthy and enough just as you are. Furthermore, the most important acceptance and approval is from yourself. Also, surround yourself with people who value and accept you just as you are.

6. Put Yourself Out There

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. ” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Despite the risks and anxieties, choose to show up authentically. Express yourself in ways that resonate with you. Own who you are and show it. Self-expression is a gift to yourself and the world. It takes self-belief and courage.

Putting yourself out there can build your self-esteem and confidence, especially if you receive positive feedback. It is also an opportunity to establish healthy boundaries with people around you for what you can tolerate and not tolerate.

7. Be Considerate of Others

Be respectful and considerate of others when choosing ways to self-express. Effective self-expression is learning to safely translate your thoughts, emotions, ideas, preferences, and personality without hurting others.

For example, if you are angry with your boss, journaling about your raw, unedited emotions may be more effective than yelling at them. Once you have decompressed, practice different ways to explain your feelings to your boss without risking being fired. Similarly, overt sexual expression may be inappropriate and disrespectful to others.

It takes practice and time to find a balance between authentically expressing yourself and being respectful and considerate of others.

Start Expressing Yourself

Self-expression is multifaceted. It takes different forms, and the best method of self-expression varies from person to person. When choosing how to express yourself, consider what you are good at and forms of self-expression that you feel comfortable with. Also, explore other forms to identify if there are new forms of self-expression that you resonate with.

Self and personal expression is a life-long journey that ebbs and flows with life. Sometimes you may find it easy to express yourself, yet other times it may be difficult. Recognize and honor each phase and commit to discovering the best and new ways to express yourself creatively and authentically.

Quincy Seale

Oratory Club

Public Speaking Helpline

How to Write a Speech About Yourself?

To write a speech about yourself, start by identifying your key accomplishments and experiences in a concise manner and then structure your speech around these points. When it comes to providing a speech about oneself, it’s crucial to strike a balance between confidently highlighting your achievements and maintaining humility.

Crafting a compelling speech can be challenging, but with a clear structure and effective storytelling, you can effectively convey your personal narrative. This article offers practical tips and insights to help you write a speech about yourself that captivates your audience’s attention and leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you’re preparing for a graduation ceremony, job interview, or a personal event, this guide will ensure your speech is well-organized, engaging and highlights the unique aspects that define you. Let’s delve into the process of writing an impactful speech about yourself.

Table of Contents

2. Crafting Your Personal Story

Crafting Your Personal Story is a crucial aspect of writing a speech about yourself. Through this process, you can effectively highlight your unique experiences, skills, and achievements, capturing the audience’s attention and making a lasting impression.

• Introduction: Start with a captivating opening that grabs your audience’s attention. Introduce yourself briefly and state the purpose of your speech.
• Main Body: Divide your speech into sections or paragraphs, with each focusing on a specific key experience. Start by providing some context for each experience, and then share the details of what happened, including any challenges or lessons learned.
• Transition: Use transitional phrases or sentences to smoothly move from one experience to the next. This will help create a logical flow and maintain the interest of your audience.
• Conclusion: Summarize your key experiences and tie them back to the theme of your speech. Leave your audience with a memorable closing statement or call to action.

Credit: www.wikihow.com

3. Engaging With Your Audience

When delivering a speech about yourself, it’s crucial to engage your audience to capture their attention and make a lasting impression. By establishing a connection, relating to their experiences, and incorporating humor, you can create a memorable and impactful speech.

3.1 Establishing Connection

Establishing a connection with your audience is fundamental to building rapport and keeping them engaged throughout your speech. You can achieve this by:

• Maintaining eye contact to make your audience feel involved and connected to your story.
• Mirroring their body language subtly to create a sense of familiarity and rapport.
• Using inclusive language such as “we” and “us” to establish a shared experience.

3.2 Relating To Their Experiences

Relating to your audience’s experiences helps them connect your story to their own lives, making it more relatable and engaging. Consider:

• Sharing personal anecdotes that your audience can resonate with and find common ground.
• Using examples and analogies that illustrate situations similar to the ones your audience may have encountered.
• Addressing universal struggles or aspirations that your audience can relate to emotionally.

3.3 Using Humor

Integrating humor into your speech not only entertains your audience but also helps them remember your message. Here’s how:

Remember, striking a balance between relatability and humor is key. Make sure the jokes or anecdotes you use are appropriate for the occasion and align with the overall tone of your speech.

Engaging with your audience during a speech about yourself not only captures their attention but also builds a connection and leaves a lasting impact. By establishing rapport, relating to their experiences, and incorporating humor, you can ensure your speech resonates with your audience and creates a memorable experience.

4. Showcasing Your Achievements

Crafting a speech about yourself requires showcasing your achievements effectively. Highlight your accomplishments in a concise and engaging way to captivate your audience. Let your successes shine while staying authentic in delivering your story.

4.1 Highlighting Accomplishments

• Make a list of your top achievements.
• Categorize them based on their relevance to your speech.
• Select the most impressive and impactful achievements to include in your speech.
• Describe each accomplishment briefly, focusing on the challenges you faced and the results you achieved.
• Use specific examples, numbers, or metrics to quantify the success.

4.2 Demonstrating Expertise

• Clearly state your qualifications and relevant experience at the beginning of your speech.
• Provide examples of how your expertise has been applied in real-world situations.
• Share success stories or case studies to illustrate your problem-solving abilities.
• Highlight any certifications, degrees, or training that reinforce your expertise in the topic.
• Show enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter to further establish your credibility.

4.3 Imparting Lessons Learned

• Reflect on your experiences and identify valuable insights or key learnings.
• Craft concise and impactful statements that encapsulate each lesson.
• Explain how these lessons have influenced your growth and success.
• Relate the lessons to the audience’s context to increase relevance and engagement.
• Encourage your audience to reflect on their own experiences and apply the lessons to their own lives.

Credit: www.pinterest.com

5. Ending With Impact

Learn how to write a speech about yourself that leaves a lasting impact with these effective tips. Craft your sentences to be concise, captivating, and memorable, ensuring your audience is engaged from start to finish.

5.1 Call-to-action

• Clearly state what you want the audience to do.
• Make it specific and achievable.
• Highlight the benefits they will gain.

5.2 Summarizing Key Points

• Start by briefly restating your main message or thesis statement.
• Highlight the main supporting points you covered throughout your speech.
• Reinforce the significance and relevance of your main ideas.

5.3 Leaving A Lasting Impression

• End with a powerful quote or thought-provoking statement that encapsulates your speech.
• Share a personal anecdote that leaves a strong emotional impact.
• Reiterate your main message, emphasizing its significance.

Frequently Asked Questions On How To Write A Speech About Yourself?

How do i start a speech about myself.

To start a speech about yourself, introduce yourself with a brief personal background and highlight your expertise or achievements that are relevant to the topic of the speech.

What Are Some Tips To Engage The Audience In A Speech About Myself?

Engage the audience in your speech about yourself by using storytelling, incorporating humor, asking thought-provoking questions, and maintaining eye contact to create a connection.

How Can I Make My Speech About Myself Memorable?

Make your speech about yourself memorable by sharing personal anecdotes, using visuals or props, expressing passion and emotion, and ending with a strong and inspiring conclusion.

Writing a speech about yourself can be a daunting task, but it is also an opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and experiences. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can create an engaging and impactful speech that will captivate your audience.

Remember to be authentic, speak from the heart, and use storytelling techniques to connect with your listeners. With practice and confidence, you will be able to deliver a speech that reflects who you truly are. Good luck!

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Home » Blog » General » Mastering Everyday Speech: How to Effectively Express Yourself

Mastering Everyday Speech: How to Effectively Express Yourself

Effective communication is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in our personal and professional lives. It allows us to express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas, and connect with others on a deeper level. One aspect of communication that often goes overlooked is everyday speech. Mastering everyday speech can significantly enhance our communication skills and improve our overall ability to express ourselves.

Understanding Everyday Speech

Everyday speech refers to the language we use in our day-to-day interactions with others. It is the language we use at home, with friends, and in casual social settings. Unlike formal speech, which is more structured and follows specific rules, everyday speech is more informal and relaxed.

However, mastering everyday speech can be challenging for many individuals. It is common to encounter difficulties such as unclear articulation, limited vocabulary, and struggles with word retrieval. These challenges can hinder effective communication and lead to frustration and misunderstandings.

Key Strategies for Mastering Everyday Speech

Active listening.

Active listening is a crucial skill for effective everyday speech. It involves fully engaging with the speaker, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, and responding appropriately. By actively listening, we can better understand the speaker’s message and respond in a meaningful way.

To improve your active listening skills, try the following tips:

• Maintain eye contact with the speaker
• Minimize distractions and focus on the conversation
• Ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding
• Reflect on what the speaker is saying before responding

Vocabulary Expansion

A robust vocabulary is essential for effective everyday speech. It allows us to express ourselves more precisely and accurately. To expand your vocabulary, try incorporating the following techniques into your daily routine:

• Read books, articles, and other written materials
• Use a dictionary or a vocabulary-building app to learn new words
• Engage in conversations with a diverse group of people
• Practice using new words in different contexts

Clear Articulation

Clear articulation is vital for ensuring that our message is understood by others. It involves pronouncing words and sounds accurately and distinctly. To improve your articulation skills, consider trying the following exercises and techniques:

• Practice tongue twisters to improve speech clarity
• Record yourself speaking and listen for any unclear or mumbled words
• Work with a speech-language pathologist to target specific articulation difficulties

Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication plays a significant role in everyday speech. It includes facial expressions, body language, gestures, and tone of voice. Being aware of and effectively using nonverbal cues can enhance our communication and help convey our message more effectively. Here are some tips for improving your nonverbal communication skills:

• Pay attention to your body language and facial expressions
• Practice maintaining an open and welcoming posture
• Use appropriate hand gestures to emphasize key points
• Match your tone of voice to the message you want to convey

Empathy and Perspective-Taking

Empathy and perspective-taking are essential skills for effective everyday speech. They involve understanding and sharing the feelings and perspectives of others. By developing empathy, we can better connect with others and respond in a compassionate and understanding manner. Here are some strategies for developing empathy and perspective-taking abilities:

• Practice active listening and putting yourself in the speaker’s shoes
• Read books or watch movies that explore different perspectives and experiences
• Engage in discussions and debates that challenge your own beliefs
• Volunteer or engage in activities that expose you to different cultures and communities

Overcoming Common Challenges in Everyday Speech

Speech anxiety.

Speech anxiety is a common challenge that can hinder effective everyday speech. It is the fear or nervousness associated with speaking in front of others. To overcome speech anxiety, try the following techniques:

• Practice deep breathing and relaxation exercises before speaking
• Visualize yourself speaking confidently and successfully
• Start with small speaking engagements and gradually work your way up
• Seek support from a therapist or join a public speaking group

Speech Clarity

Speech clarity issues, such as mumbling or speaking too quickly, can make it challenging for others to understand our message. To address speech clarity issues, consider the following exercises and techniques:

• Practice speaking slowly and enunciating each word clearly
• Work with a speech-language pathologist to target specific speech clarity difficulties

Word Retrieval Difficulties

Word retrieval difficulties can cause frustration and hinder effective everyday speech. They involve difficulties in finding and recalling the right words to express our thoughts and ideas. To overcome word retrieval challenges, try the following strategies:

• Use visual aids, such as flashcards or mind maps, to help trigger word recall
• Practice word association exercises to strengthen word connections in your brain
• Take your time when speaking and allow yourself to pause and think before responding
• Work with a speech-language pathologist to develop specific word retrieval strategies

Mastering everyday speech is a valuable skill that can greatly enhance our communication abilities. By actively listening, expanding our vocabulary, improving our articulation, enhancing our nonverbal communication, and developing empathy and perspective-taking skills, we can become more effective communicators in our daily lives.

Remember, practice and consistency are key to mastering everyday speech. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you’re facing significant challenges. A speech-language pathologist can provide personalized guidance and support to help you overcome any obstacles you may encounter.

Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial today and take the first step towards mastering everyday speech and becoming a more confident and effective communicator.

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How to Write a Speech About Yourself

• Study Tips and Tricks

The initial introduction in public speaking is crucial as it sets the tone, captures attention, and signals the nature of the presentation. It can take various forms, such as a captivating statement, a resonant quote, or a surprising fact that elicits interest. The artistry of this introduction lies in its ability to intrigue and engage, creating a magnetic pull that draws the audience into the speaker’s narrative.

In professional arenas, an introductory speech about yourself is pivotal as a bridge between strangers, unlocking the potential for meaningful connections. They are instrumental in building rapport and establishing common ground, facilitating networking, fostering collaborations, and leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and potential collaborators.

The significance of self-introduction extends beyond formal settings into everyday social interactions. An effective self-introduction speech catalyzes connection, sparking conversations and weaving the fabric of lasting relationships. In casual encounters, it acts as a conversational anchor, providing a starting point inviting others to engage and share their stories.

The overarching goal of this guide is empowerment, aiming to empower individuals with the knowledge of how to write a speech about yourself. By providing a step-by-step journey, the guide encourages individuals to navigate the nuances of audience understanding, content creation, and delivery techniques, making every self-introduction speech a memorable and impactful experience.

Writing a Speech About Yourself: Tone and Language

To effectively write an intro speech about yourself, choose the right tone for your self-introduction. Consider the formality of the occasion and adjust your tone accordingly. Opt for a polished and professional tone in more formal settings while adopting a more informal tone in casual or personal settings. Reflect on the occasion and setting by assessing the atmosphere and setting. Tailor your tone to align with the overall mood of the event to ensure your self-introduction resonates with the audience and enhances engagement.

Avoid common pitfalls by balancing boasting vs. humility. Highlight your achievements modestly, focusing on lessons learned and collaborative efforts contributing to your success. Humility adds a relatable dimension to your self-introduction, fostering a positive connection with the audience. Balancing confidence and relatability is essential. Speak with assurance about your experiences and skills but avoid creating an emotional distance by appearing overly confident or detached. Share personal stories or challenges demonstrating vulnerability, making you more relatable to your audience.

By carefully navigating these considerations in tone and language, you can tailor your self-introduction to the specific dynamics of the situation, making it more impactful and resonant with your audience.

What Is an Introductory Speech – Clear Explanation

An introductory speech is a verbal presentation where an individual provides information about themselves, their background, and other details to an audience. The primary purpose of an introductory speech is to establish a connection with listeners, create a good first impression, and set the tone for the interaction or event.

The introductory speech typically begins with the speaker’s formal or informal introduction, including their name, title, and role. The speaker briefly outlines the purpose of their presentation, which could range from introducing themselves in a new environment to providing context for their presence at an event. Personal information such as name, age, place of origin, and current location are shared to provide a foundation for the audience to get to know the speaker.

Educational and professional background details are often included, such as academic achievements, degrees earned, and significant milestones in their career. Hobbies and interests are shared to add a personal touch and make the speech more relatable. Key achievements and accomplishments are highlighted to establish the speaker’s credibility and showcase their expertise in a particular field. Future goals and aspirations are discussed to provide insight into the speaker’s ambitions and foster a shared purpose with the audience.

Connection to the audience is established by finding common ground through shared experiences, values, or goals. The introductory speech typically concludes with a closing statement summarizing key points and leaving a positive impression.

Structure Examples of Introduction Speeches About Yourself

A speech should contain three sections: Introduction to a speech about yourself, body, and conclusion. The introduction should grab attention with an attention-grabbing anecdote, compelling quote, or rhetorical question, establishing the narrative. The body should include two or three key themes or experiences that align with the overall message, such as pivotal moments in your career, personal achievements, or transformative experiences.

Organizing content coherently is crucial, either chronologically taking the audience through your life’s journey or thematically focusing on specific aspects of your identity or experiences. Transitions should guide the audience smoothly from one point to the next. Balancing personal and professional aspects is essential, integrating stories from professional achievements with personal anecdotes that showcase your values or character.

In conclusion, summarize the key points covered in the self-introduction, reinforcing the main themes or takeaways to ensure a clear understanding of who you are and what you’ve shared. Craft a memorable closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the audience, such as a reflective comment on your journey, an inspiring quote, or a call to action that aligns with your overall message.

By paying attention to each section, incorporating engaging elements, and ensuring a seamless flow, you learn how to write a speech about yourself that captures attention and resonates deeply with your audience.

Understanding the Audience

To know how to write a speech about yourself that is compelling, it is crucial to understand the target audience, including demographics, interests, and expectations. This helps tailor the speech to resonate with their experiences and aspirations, establishing a genuine connection.

Once the target audience is identified, align the speech content with their interests and concerns. Highlight key themes that resonate with them, such as your background, experiences, and achievements. Incorporate relevant anecdotes or examples to make the self-introduction more meaningful and memorable.

Tailoring tone and language for audience engagement is essential. Match the tone to match the occasion’s atmosphere and your listeners’ preferences. Maintain a polished and professional tone in formal settings while injecting warmth and relatability in casual settings. Consider the cultural context and strive for inclusivity in language nuances and communication styles. Avoid unfamiliar jargon and opt for clear, accessible language.

Review and Revision

Actively seek out the opinions of a wide range of people, such as mentors, friends you can trust, and peers. Their diverse viewpoints provide valuable insights that can reveal blind spots and provide your self-introduction with a comprehensive assessment. Encourage candid and detailed comments to identify areas that might need improvement.

Audience Simulation

You can advance the process by performing a practice or simulated presentation in front of a small audience. You may measure responses in real-time in this live environment, picking up on subtleties that could be overlooked in one-on-one feedback sessions. Using this hands-on exercise, keep a close eye on audience participation, facial expressions, and any questions or concerns expressed to pinpoint possible areas for improvement.

Explore the narrative components of your self-introduction in detail, realizing how important they are to its impact and clarity. Make sure the story is convincing, coherent, and transparent by evaluating it. To improve the general flow, reorder the major themes or events and cut out any extraneous information that could divert attention from your core point.

Optimize Crucial Points

Go over the main ideas you emphasized in the introduction about yourself speech. Ensure every point flows naturally from your main point, significantly contributing to the desired effect. Adjust the wording to effectively and succinctly communicate your ideas; strive for accuracy and avoid excessive detail. Aim for a balance between clarity and captivating your audience.

Grammar Accuracy

Examine the wording you choose in your self-introduction very carefully. Make sure the words you use to express what you mean. Remove any excessive jargon or extremely complicated language that could make it difficult to understand. Balance simplicity and eloquence when selecting words for your audience.

Consistency of Tone

Check to see if your tone remained the same throughout your introduction. Ensure it flows naturally from the presentation’s background to the audience’s expectations. Any sudden changes in tone that can throw off how your speech flows overall should be smoothed out. Maintaining a consistent tone strengthens your emotional bond with your audience and improves the coherence of your message.

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Topic Ideas

Speeches given at introductions are potent tools for illuminating the nuances of a person’s personality, morals, and experiences. In this process of revelation, choosing a topic is essential, and there are many exciting examples of introduction speeches about yourself to delve into. “My Journey Through Passion and Profession,” “Navigating Crossroads,” and “From Student to Professional” are a few examples that offer frameworks for telling stories about personal and professional development. “The Influence of Travel” and “Bridging Cultures” provide a platform for discussing the impact of many experiences, while “Unveiling the Layers” invites the speaker to explore the many facets of their identity.

Furthermore, you can focus on particular facets of their journeys by choosing an example of speech about yourself like “My Leadership Philosophy,” “Overcoming Adversity,” “Passion Projects and Side Hustles,” and “Finding Purpose in Volunteerism.” These speeches should explore the feelings, lessons, and personal growth connected to these situations rather than just retelling the facts.

The transformative power of travel, the rewards and difficulties of being a global citizen, the pursuit of passion projects, the resilience shown in the face of adversity, the fulfillment found in volunteer work, and the guiding principles that shape one’s leadership philosophy are additional topics for introduction speeches beyond the ones listed above. Authenticity is the key to a solid first speech.

The speaker’s story should authentically represent their character, morals, and life lessons learned from their experience.

To know how to start speech about yourself requires adjusting the topic to the speaker’s passions, experiences, and areas of interest. The speech should also be tailored to their needs and tastes to establish a connection with the audience that goes beyond words. The speaker can effectively share their perspective and personal progress by selecting a topic that speaks to them. When delivered with ability on these subjects, introductory speeches can create a strong bond between the speaker and the audience by allowing them to participate in the natural and proper parts of the speaker’s narrative.

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Finding Your Unique Path: Exploring the Importance of Self-Expression

Are you ever left feeling confined by the inability to truly express yourself? Research shows that self-expression is  crucial for mental health  and  overall well-being . In this article, we’ll delve into what self-expression is and why it’s important, explore  various forms it can take , and offer techniques to help enhance your authentic expression.

Ready to  unleash the power of self-expression ? Let’s  dive in !

Key Takeaways

• Self  – expression is the  ability to convey thoughts, feelings, and identity through communication  and different forms like art, writing, or physical movement.
• Self-expression is  important for mental health  as it helps clear our minds, lower stress, boost self-esteem, and foster connections with others.
• Different forms of self  – expression include physical (using your body), intellectual (expressing thoughts and ideas), creative (through art or music), emotional (authentic expression of emotions), and relational (showing who we are in relationships).
• Overcoming challenges like self-doubt, fear of judgment, and societal expectations is crucial for authentic self-expression. Techniques such as making a list of personal interests/passions, paying attention to language/communication, and tuning into senses can help build authentic self-expression.

What is Self-Expression and Why is it Important?

Self-expression is the ability to convey our thoughts, feelings, and identity through various forms of communication, and it plays a crucial role in supporting our mental health and fostering connection with others.

What self-expression is not

Self-expression isn’t about mimicking others or following someone else’s lead. True self-expression comes from within and reflects an individual’s unique thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. It is not about manipulation, control, or seeking popularity. Authentic self-expression is not driven by external factors or the desire to persuade others; instead, it is a genuine representation of one’s inner self. When self-expression is influenced by external factors or motivations, it loses its authenticity and may not accurately convey the individual’s true identity

Importance for mental health

Being true to your feelings is good for your mind.   Saying what you feel helps clear your head.   It can lower stress and make you happy.   Holding in feelings can hurt your mental health.

But  sharing them in a healthy way helps keep the brain well-balanced.   Creative acts like art, dance or writing help too.  They let you show how you feel without words. This boosts self-esteem and fights off sadness and worry.

So, expressing yourself is key to staying mentally strong and happy.

Connection and belonging

Feeling you fit in is key to self-expression. This need creates a  bond between people . It allows us to share our thoughts and feelings with others. This link helps us feel safe and loved.

Self-expression plays a big role here.

Expressing your true self attracts those who value it most. People build strong links when they show their authentic selves without fear of judgment. Then, fitting in doesn’t mean blending in the crowd but standing out as yourself! It means  being seen for who you are  and  feeling accepted .

The importance of Self-Expression

Self-expression allows individuals to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a meaningful way, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotions. Engaging in creative activities can lead to a more positive outlook on life, improved problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

The mental health benefits of self-expression are well-documented. Research has shown that self-expression in the arts positively affects mood, function, cognition, and behavior. Creative self-expression can reduce stress, increase a sense of well-being, and promote healing and resilience. Furthermore, self-expression plays a significant role in developing our capacity to relate to others and engage in deep relationships.

Incorporating self-expression into one’s daily life can lead to numerous benefits, including improved mood, boosted self-esteem, and enhanced cognitive function. By embracing a creative mindset and fostering an environment that encourages self-expression, individuals can unlock their full potential and experience personal growth.

Different Forms of Self-Expression

There are  various forms of self-expression , including physical, intellectual, creative, emotional, and relational self-expression.

Physical self-expression

Physical self-expression is all about  using your body . You use it to tell others what you think or feel. Dance, moves, faces and hand signs are part of this. Even  how you stand shows something .

Words can’t say everything, but our bodies can help us out. Dancing or showing feelings with our face make us feel good about ourselves.

Intellectual self-expression

Intellectual self-expression is all about expressing your thoughts, ideas, and beliefs in a clear and meaningful way. It’s  using language and critical thinking skills  to communicate what you understand and think about things.

This can include  writing, speaking in public, debating, or having intellectual discussions . When we engage in intellectual self-expression, we share knowledge and perspectives with others.

It helps us grow intellectually by  encouraging creativity, critical thinking, personal development, self-confidence, and self-esteem . So whether it’s through writing an essay or participating in a debate, intellectual self-expression is important for our growth as individuals.

Creative self-expression

Creative self-expression is a way for individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas in  unique and artistic ways . It allows people to tap into their creativity and use different forms of art, such as  painting, writing, or music , to communicate what words alone may not be able to convey.

Through creative self-expression, individuals can explore their inner selves and share their experiences with others in a meaningful way. This form of expression can have numerous benefits including  stress relief ,  improved communication skills , increased self-confidence, and personal growth.

Additionally, recognizing and appreciating the creative self-expression of others can also enhance our own understanding of self-expression and help us connect with diverse perspectives.

Emotional self-expression

Emotional self-expression is all about expressing your emotions and feelings in an  authentic way . It’s an important way to  communicate with others  and  connect on a deeper level . Whether it’s through writing, art, music, or dance, finding ways to express your emotions can be incredibly therapeutic and beneficial for your mental health.

Research shows that emotional self-expression can help improve our well-being and enhance our ability to relate to others. By being open and honest about how we feel, we  create space for genuine connections and meaningful relationships .

So don’t hold back – let those emotions out!

Relational self-expression

Relational self-expression  is a way to express ourselves through our relationships with others. It involves  showing who we truly are  and what we value in our  interactions with friends, family, and partners .

When we engage in relational self-expression, we can share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences authentically. This form of self-expression allows us to connect on a deeper level with those around us and  foster meaningful relationships .

By being true to ourselves in our interactions, we can create an environment that encourages others to do the same, leading to  greater understanding and connection .

Choosing the right method to express your feelings

Expressing your feelings is important, and there are different ways to do it. Here are some methods you can choose from:

• Talking to someone you trust
• Writing in a journal or diary
• Creating art, such as painting or drawing
• Dancing or moving your body
• Playing a musical instrument or singing
• Taking part in sports or physical activities
• Cooking or baking
• Engaging in hobbies like knitting or woodworking

Challenges in Authentic Self-Expression

Overcoming self-doubt , conquering the fear of judgment, and defying societal expectations are all hurdles in achieving authentic self-expression.

Overcoming self-doubt

Self-doubt can  hold us back  from expressing ourselves authentically. It’s that nagging feeling of  uncertainty and negativity  towards ourselves that stops us from  believing in our abilities and worth .

However, we have the power to overcome self-doubt and unlock our full potential. By  challenging negative thoughts , setting realistic goals, surrounding ourselves with supportive people, practicing self-compassion, and seeking professional help if needed, we can build self-confidence and embrace who we truly are.

Remember, overcoming self-doubt is a journey, but with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible to break free from its grip and express ourselves confidently.

Fear of judgment

Many people struggle with self-expression because they are afraid of being judged by others. This fear can stem from societal pressures and the worry of not fitting in. It’s common for individuals to avoid expressing themselves fully, even in their closest relationships, out of  fear of being dismissed or shamed .

The fear of judgment can be paralyzing and prevent people from standing out or doing things differently. In fact, research shows that  65% of UK adults find it challenging to express themselves due to this fear .

Overcoming the fear of judgment often requires seeking guidance from an expert or therapist who can provide support and help individuals build their confidence in expressing themselves authentically.

Societal expectations

Societal expectations can greatly influence how we express ourselves. Many people feel pressured to  conform to certain standards  and present a specific image on social media. This pressure can make it difficult for individuals to authentically express their true thoughts and feelings.

However, prioritizing authenticity in self-expression on social media has been shown to lead to  positive outcomes in terms of need satisfaction and well-being . It’s important to overcome these  societal expectations  by  embracing our true selves  and expressing genuine emotions, both online and offline.

Techniques for Building Authentic Self-Expression

To build authentic self expression, make a list of your interests and passions. Pay attention to how you communicate and use language. Tune into your senses to explore and express your emotions.

Read more about these techniques here [link].

Making a list of personal interests and passions

Making a list of your  personal interests and passions  can help you express yourself authentically. It gives you a starting point to explore what genuinely excites and inspires you. Here are some steps to get you started:

• Take out a pen and paper or open a document on your computer.
• Set aside some uninterrupted time to  reflect on your likes, dislikes, and hobbies .
• Think about activities that bring you joy or make you lose track of time.
• Consider your childhood interests or any dreams you’ve always wanted to pursue.
• Write down anything that comes to mind, no matter how big or small.
• Don’t worry about judgment or practicality  – this is about  discovering what truly matters to you .

Paying attention to language and communication

Language and communication are  powerful tools  that we use every day to  express ourselves  and  connect with others . The words we choose and the way we communicate can have a big impact on our relationships and interactions.

It’s important to pay attention to language and communication because it helps us  convey our thoughts, feelings, and ideas effectively . Nonverbal cues such as body language also play a significant role in building better connections with others.

By being mindful of how we speak and listen, we can  improve our communication skills  and foster stronger relationships in various settings, including social care environments where effective communication is essential for providing support and understanding to others.

Tuning into senses to explore emotions

Exploring emotions can be done by tuning into our senses. Our senses, such as taste, touch, sight, smell, and hearing, play a crucial role in helping us understand and express our feelings.

For example, listening to music or engaging in creative activities like painting or dancing can evoke different emotions within us. Research has shown that music-making and artistic expression can be effective ways for individuals to understand and convey their emotions.

By paying attention to our senses and engaging in activities that stimulate them, we can gain a deeper understanding of our emotions and find healthier ways to express them.

Counseling for Self-Expression

Find the right counselor or therapist to guide you on your journey of self-expression and experience the benefits of professional guidance.

Finding the right counselor or therapist

Finding the right counselor or therapist is an  important step  in your journey towards self-expression. Start by exploring  local resources , apps, organizations, and reliable online therapy options that can connect you with professionals who specialize in helping individuals express their thoughts and feelings.

Look for therapists who prioritize self-care and seek personal support to maintain their professional well-being. Remember that  self-disclosure in counseling  can help establish trust and strengthen the bond between therapist and client, but it should be used cautiously as there can be  risks associated with sharing personal information .

Take your time to find a therapist who  aligns with your values  and makes you feel comfortable opening up about your authentic self.

Benefits of professional guidance

Professional guidance through counseling or therapy can have numerous benefits when it comes to self-expression. Counselors help individuals  understand themselves better  in a  safe, non-judgmental environment .

By exploring thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be holding them back, individuals can  break free from patterns of self-defeat  and develop healthier ways of expressing themselves.

Additionally, counseling can  improve communication skills  and  enhance interpersonal relationships . It allows for greater self-acceptance and higher self-esteem. Studies show that satisfaction with personal support, including counseling, is linked to increased psychological adaptation and professional growth.

How to foster a culture of self-expression

Creating an environment that encourages self-expression can be achieved by teaching children the  importance of self-expression , breaking free from the fear of judgment, and embracing self-expression as a form of empowerment.

Teaching children the importance of self-expression

It is crucial to teach children the importance of self-expression. By encouraging and supporting their ability to express themselves, we  empower them to explore their imagination and creativity .

Self-expression allows children to  communicate their wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings  in a meaningful way. It also plays a role in  developing their self-esteem and confidence . Art is particularly valuable as it provides an outlet for emotional expression.

By teaching children about self-expression from a young age, we can help them  develop essential skills  that will  benefit them throughout their lives .

Creating an environment that encourages self-expression

To create an environment that encourages self-expression, it’s important to  foster a culture of acceptance and support . This can be done by  actively listening to others without judgment  and respecting their thoughts and feelings.

Encourage open communication and provide opportunities for individuals to share their ideas, whether through regular group meetings or platforms like an intranet where people can express themselves freely.

By  valuing each person’s unique perspective , you create a safe space where self-expression is welcomed.

Studies have shown that when people feel free to express themselves authentically, it improves their mental health and overall wellbeing. Additionally,  promoting creativity through activities like art therapy or creative problem-solving exercises  can also spark self-expression.

Emphasize the importance of embracing diverse ways of expression so that everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas in different forms, such as writing, speaking, or artistic expression.

Breaking free from the fear of judgment in self-expression

The  fear of judgment  can hold us back from expressing our true selves. It’s important to break free from this fear in order to fully embrace authentic self-expression. When we let go of worrying about what others might think, we open ourselves up to the possibility of true self-discovery and personal growth.

Additionally, research shows that practicing self-expression without judgment has a positive impact on our mental health and overall well-being. By recognizing the value and importance of our own thoughts and feelings, we can navigate through life with confidence and connect with others on a deeper level.

Breaking free from the fear of judgment allows us to express ourselves more authentically, leading to  greater happiness and fulfillment  in life.

Embracing self-expression as a form of empowerment

Self-expression is a  powerful tool  that enables individuals to embrace their true selves and feel empowered. By expressing our thoughts, feelings, and ideas through words, actions, or choices, we can assert our identity and show the world who we are.

Embracing self-expression allows us to  break free from societal expectations  and fear of judgment, enabling us to live authentic lives. When we express ourselves authentically, we  inspire others  to do the same and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding.

Self-acceptance and embracing our authentic selves can lead to  increased confidence and resilience  in the face of criticism.

The role of self-expression in personal and professional relationships

Self-expression plays a crucial role in both personal and professional relationships. When we express ourselves authentically, it allows others to understand us better and creates a deeper sense of connection.

In personal relationships, self-expression helps build trust and strengthens emotional bonds. It enables us to share our thoughts, feelings, and opinions openly, fostering  meaningful communication .

In professional settings, self-expression is essential for  effective teamwork and collaboration . It allows individuals to contribute their unique perspectives and ideas, leading to innovation and success.

In conclusion, self-expression is a  powerful tool  that allows us to  be true to ourselves  and share our thoughts and feelings with the world. It plays an important role in our  mental health , helps us  connect with others , and fosters a  sense of belonging .

By embracing authentic self-expression, we can overcome challenges, build healthier relationships, and  unleash our full potential . So go ahead, express yourself confidently and let your unique voice be heard!

Q: What is self-expression?

A: Self-expression is the act of expressing oneself, one’s thoughts, emotions, and ideas, in a way that is unique to each individual.

Q: Why is self-expression important?

A: Self-expression is important because it allows us to communicate our true selves, our unique perspectives, and our individual values to the world. It helps us to understand ourselves better and create meaningful connections with others.

Q: What are the ways to express oneself?

A: There are numerous ways to express oneself, including through art, writing, music, dance, fashion, body language, and even through verbal communication.

Q: What are the benefits of self-expression?

A: Self-expression can have several benefits, such as boosting self-confidence, reducing stress, promoting personal growth and self-awareness, fostering creativity, and facilitating authentic relationships.

Q: How can self-expression values impact individuals?

A: Self-expression values can have a significant impact on individuals, as they shape their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. They can influence how individuals choose to express themselves and what they prioritize in their lives.

Q: Can self-expression be unhealthy?

A: While self-expression is generally seen as a positive form of self-discovery and communication, there can be instances where self-expression becomes unhealthy, such as when it involves harmful behaviors or infringes upon the rights and well-being of others.

Q: How can self-expression be taught?

A: Self-expression is a personal journey, but it can be nurtured and encouraged through various means, including education, creative outlets, therapy, supportive environments, and opportunities for self-reflection and self-exploration.

Q: Are people’s ideas of self-expression the same?

A: People’s ideas of self-expression can vary greatly. Each individual has their unique ways of expressing themselves based on their personal experiences, cultural background, and individual values.

Q: What are some outlets for self-expression?

A: There are numerous outlets for self-expression, such as art galleries, performance spaces, social media platforms, personal blogs, journals, public speaking, and even everyday conversations and interactions with others.

Q: How does self-expression contribute to success?

A: Self-expression can contribute to success by allowing individuals to fully express their talents, passions, and ideas. It can help individuals stand out, build meaningful connections, and navigate their chosen paths with authenticity and confidence.

MindOwl Founder – My own struggles in life have led me to this path of understanding the human condition. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy before completing a master’s degree in psychology at Regent’s University London.  I then completed a postgraduate diploma in philosophical counselling before being trained in ACT (Acceptance and commitment therapy). I’ve spent the last eight years studying the encounter of meditative practices with modern psychology.

5 Creative Ways to Practice Self-Expression

“Everyone has their own ways of expression. I believe we all have a lot to say, but finding ways to say it is more than half the battle.” – Criss Jami

Imagine if you could freely and unabashedly express who you are and what you want? 

How would your life change? What would be different?

Self-expression is a fundamental part of sharing our gifts and talents with the world.

It’s how we share what’s important to us, what we believe in, and what we desire. 

Self-expression is how we connect with each other more deeply. It allows us to experience empathy and understanding so we can help and serve others.

It’s important to have an avenue to freely express ourselves and let our personality shine.

If we don’t feel comfortable expressing ourselves it will be difficult to show up fully, be bold, and make a difference in the world.

If we don’t believe we have a voice worth listening to, we won’t speak up or express our needs, hopes, and dreams.

So here are five ways you can learn to express yourself more fully.

1. Expressive writing

Many people find it useful to express themselves through some form of writing. 

Whether you write prose, poetry, or simply journal about your day, expressing yourself through writing can help you share your thoughts, feelings, and perspective.

A powerful exercise is do a “brain dump” and freely write anything that comes to mind for 15 minutes each day. 

You can get more specific and start writing about your life experiences. This could be your earliest memory from kindergarten or an experience you had yesterday. 

The point is to practice writing so you can understand yourself more fully, and ultimately use writing as a means to speak your truth and be more intentional about what you want to say.

“No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to  build confidence  in the creative spirit.” – Ansel Adams

2. Dress to express

You may not care about fashion or the latest trends, but creating and/or wearing clothing that reflect your inner self is a strong form of self-expression.  

What we wear reveals something about our personality. You’re clothing is a conduit to your values and aesthetic taste. 

Two apparel companies that have helped me connect with my self-expression are Ugmonk and Random Objects , which is where the dream chaser t-shirt came from. These clothe help me express myself and feel good about how I look.

If you’re feeling even more ambitious, MeowPrint.sg , along with other T-shirt printing services pave the way for you to wear your thoughts through customized apparel such as shirts.

Thanks to the advancements in technology, custom printed shirts are more affordable and readily available through online stores. You can also recycle your old clothes and transform them into something different and eclectic.

3. Dance and body movement

Dancing and body movement is a very intricate form of self-expression. The act of dancing and body movement is innate and universal. Even a toddler can sense rhythm and express this feeling through movement.

Our demeanor and body language is an extension of communication and self-expression. 

Within dance and movement is the ability to feel expansive and let go of the constricting feelings that keep us stiff and expressionless.

Our actions are also interconnected with our emotions and can be used to shift our mindset and attitude. 

That’s why social psychologist Amy Cuddy encourages people to use power posing to feel more confident and reduce stress. 

Whether you power pose or dance, play around with expressing your feelings through movement. 

“Don’t die with the music still in you.”― Dr. Wayne Dyer

Photo by  Clem Onojeghuo  on  Unsplash

4. Sing and play music

One of the most common ways to express how we feel and who we are is through music.

Whether your feeling joyful on a warm summer day, or gloomy and dejected on a cold winter day, there is song that can help you express this. 

One of the most fulfilling ways I express myself is through writing and playing music. It’s a way creative way to share who I am and how I feel.

I recently produced and recorded music under the moniker MiddleGames . I didn’t make this music because I want to be a successful artist, but because it’s fulfilling and a part of how I express creativity. 

I believe everyone has at least one song inside of them waiting to be created. There’s no write or wrong way to write a song or make music, so give it a try. 

5. Find your voice

Some people have a hard time speaking up. They feel timid and shy and lack confidence in what they want to say.

They’ve been shut down and misunderstood, and because of this have stopped speaking up. 

The good news is, you can reclaim your voice. It take practice and courage, but you can grow your confidence around speaking your mind.

You can join a book club where everyone shares their thoughts and opinion about a book. You can join or attend a speaking program, such as Toastmasters International , that will teach you to speak more honestly, directly, and confidently.

Consider how you can create opportunities to speak publicly and find your voice.

“Everybody is talented because everybody who is human has something to express.” – Brenda Ueland

The bottom-line

Creative self-expression isn’t just for artists, it’s a fundamental part of being human. It’s a skill and capacity that helps us navigate our world and make the most of our life. 

Self-expression is how we feel understood and share who we are with the world.  

There are many ways to express ourselves. Choose one of the ideas above and practice sharing your ideas, feelings, and dreams through these mediums. 

Don’t judge or critique your ability. Try to be open and free. Trust the process and allow your self-expression to blossom.

Featured image by  Juan Camilo Navia  on  Unsplash

I'm a licensed therapist and life coach who committed to honoring a life-long dream at 30 years old: becoming a professional drummer.

I started You Have A Calling because I'd like to help you achieve your dreams too. Find out more about my story here , or get started with our free tools today !

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How to Express Yourself Better in 7 Steps

Do you have ideas you’re trying to convey to others, and you just can’t seem to express yourself?

Do you ever feel like you can’t even tell a story? You could be in the middle of telling a story, and you keep overexplaining and using way too many words. Or you never can get to the end, and you already forgot the moral?

Sometimes you’re in the middle of expressing yourself, it’s going awry, and then someone cuts you off to express their views? “What the heck?! I’ve just been interrupted while telling my rambling story. Oh, well, I guess I got saved.”

Do you know people who seem able to express themselves well in any situation?

Then there are those folks who can express themselves quite well.

You know people who can express themselves to a fare-thee-well. They speak clearly and confidently . It takes them almost no time to get to the point. And they can change your views quickly.

These folks have executive presence and an incredible verbal brand. They’re assertive, yet warm . They can tell stories, answer difficult questions, and know how to say “no” without hurting anyone’s feelings. They can express themselves during tense meetings, interviews, and on stage.

Don’t worry; they don’t have an extra gene that you don’t. People who express themselves well have the essential techniques necessary to get their point across well.

We’ll start with the basic techniques, and then we’ll delve deeper.

How to Express Yourself Better

People who can express themselves well don’t have a different gene; they have the techniques.

• Formulate your ideas in advance until you don’t need to anymore.
• Don’t overexplain & avoid redundancies.
• Speak in bullets.
• Don’t be afraid of the pause while speaking.
• Start with the bottom line & don’t use too many details.
• Be relaxed. 
• Use a voice that’s warm & authoritative (not aggressive.)

These are the steps you’ll want to practice to get people loving your ideas and following your suggestions. Read on to learn how to implement these steps when you’re expressing yourself.

Many people have trouble expressing themselves.

How to implement these techniques:

Formulate your ideas in advance until you don’t have to anymore. My suggestion is to record yourself or at least talk to yourself in the mirror. 

The advantage of recording yourself is you can hear when you make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to become aware of your mistakes. It’s the only way you can get better.

You wouldn’t tell your tennis pro not to video record you because you don’t want to see your swing. You  want  to see your swing! You know that doing so will improve your game! And unless you have sponsors for your tennis games, improving your tennis won’t make you any money. But learning to express yourself better will. So let’s get back to it, shall we? Don’t make me come over there!

Learning to express yourself better is well worth the effort.

Right now, you’re cringing listening to yourself talk (Best to not be subjective but like a scientist.) But in a couple of weeks, people will be loving your ideas and following your suggestions.

You’ll love listening to yourself on a recording!

9 Secret Steps to Influencing Others

Want to be more influential? We all want to communicate our most important messages in a way that encourages others to take action. Whether that action is voting for our candidate or picking up milk from the store, the words we use and how we speak play a huge role in getting the job done.

Expressing yourself well is about getting your message across easily.

I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news; nobody wants to listen to a long rambling story. (Don’t hate! You’re in this to express yourself well and have people love your stories and concepts and follow your call to action. So let’s break some eggs. Is that the expression?)

People who express themselves well use pauses & speak in bullets.

Be not afraid of the pause. Some people really hate the pause because they know it allows others to interrupt them. It gives them that space they’re looking for. Remember, if people are interrupting you frequently, it means you’re not speaking very clearly & concisely.

Use your pauses like parenthesis around your bullets. Formulate your ideas into a few bullets. Take out the non-essential words. Eliminate redundancy and then surround those bullets with pauses.

Expressing yourself in high-stakes situations.

Master the ability to express yourself in low-stakes situations first. Talking to yourself is the easiest; telling stories to your pets comes next. (Unless they’re very judgemental.) You’ll probably need to focus in these areas for a week or two.

Once you’ve mastered the low-stakes situations, move on to the medium-stakes ones. Maybe talking to a colleague or friend and speaking in friendly meetings.

All the while, you are recording yourself and seeing significant strides. And now you’re feeling proud! Good for you!

Express yourself using a warm & authoritative voice.

Your voice plays an enormous role in how people perceive you. It impacts your credibility. Once you learn to express yourself using a warm yet authoritative voice, you’ll have people eating out of the palm of your hand.

If you don’t want to influence others and express yourself well, definitely don’t take  The Voice Spa .

All these influential, authoritative people you know have worked on their ability to express themselves well. They didn’t think it would magically happen, and they certainly didn’t put up with telling ineffective stories and not having people follow their call to action.

Go from rambling, filler word user to fluent speaker.

You can do this by measuring your success. If yesterday you used 15 filler words and non-essential words and today you only used 10 pat yourself on the back.

If last week you couldn’t get to the point but this week your stories are short & succinct, be proud!

Assess each skill minutely and expect incremental progress. I can’t say enough how you should be an objective scientist recording data.

How to express your opinions.

Now that we’ve gone and made every single topic political, expressing yourself becomes more challenging. Perhaps you mention how much you like cheese, and someone wants to blame you for climate change.

Or perhaps you did want to discuss something that may be inflammatory. You may want to start by addressing the things that you and your conversational partner have in common. 

You can say, “You and I are very similar. We both feel really strongly about ___. We both want to make the world a better place. If we take politics out of the discussion, I think we can make some progress toward our goal. We don’t have to agree on everything we just have to keep our eyes on the end goal.”

Want extra help? Take The Voice Spa

Hi Ita –

I made it through my Bloomberg interview yesterday, and I did well.

The perfect teacher shows up in life when I’m ready for it, and that teacher sure was you.

I was in total freak-out mode when I signed up for the Voice Spa. Not only is the Bloomberg Radio show live (yikes!), but it has 25.5 million listeners (double yikes!)

I’ve tried a number of public speaking courses over the years and even hypnosis. Your Voice Spa has been by far the most helpful thing I’ve come across.

I found it so helpful that the Voice Spa starts with relaxing and belly breathing. Those first few days, I did a lot of belly breathing. I was so nervous I was practically bouncing off the walls. Most relaxation programs have you doing meditation or counting breaths. There is no way I could have done those things – I was too agitated. But I could belly breathe -and it always calmed me down. Talking in phrases was also hugely helpful – it’s a great way to slow down without sounding mechanical.

 Thank you for what you do. The Voice Spa is so well thought out. You saved my sanity.

-Betsy Clark, Ph.D

  The Voice Spa  online video course will change your life!

Easily express your feelings.

Do you keep your feelings bottled up inside? Do they cause you stress and pain? That’s no good. You know it & I know it.

First, you want to decide if it’s worth it or let it go.

If it is worth it to tell someone your feelings, be sure to do so in private and when there isn’t too much going on.  You don’t want to express your undying love for someone and they reply with a cheer for their favorite football team who’s currently on the telly.

If you want to tell someone that they did something wrong, be sure to phrase it from your perspective. You can say, “It hurt my feelings when you…”

Make sure you’re relaxed. It doesn’t hurt to practice into a recorder first! 🙂

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8 thoughts on “How to Express Yourself Better in 7 Steps”

Thanks This really helped me

Thanks This really helped me.

i dont know how to use phrases or word properly. how can i express myself without using the wrong phrases or words?

https://conveyclearly.com/2021/03/10/how-to-articulate-your-thoughts-into-words/

Very practical. Love the content!

Wow! Kudos from the famous news anchor! I do appreciate it, Dong! Hope you’re doing well!

What I learned from this is you must know your content very well. From there you can then learn to speak to it adding magnetic bells and whistles, reduced redundancies and be concise with it.

Yes! Very well said. And that’s the thing, most people do know their content very well. When they’re at work, they know their stuff. Talking about their own background, well who would know more than you when you’re talking about yourself? But the problem is we aren’t taught to communicate well in school. And we should be. So parents out there, make sure you teach your kids the content in this website. 🙂

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10 Steps to Express Yourself Better in Writing

by Guest Blogger | 18 comments

Free Book Planning Course!  Sign up for our 3-part book planning course and make your book writing easy . It expires soon, though, so don’t wait.  Sign up here before the deadline!

Good writers are able to fully express themselves with words.

But with so much flowing through the chambers of your mind, it is not easy to concisely find just the right words to express yourself, your idea, and your emotions.  What phrases convey exactly what you're thinking? How do you express yourself while keeping your reader following a logical description, dialogue or argument?

Even the briefest of outlines can help organize a thought process. Construction of a paragraph is worth studying.

When you're writing an essay , for example, your topic sentence needs to lead a reader into a place, followed with supporting details or explanations.

Once it is done, move on. Going into too much depth or unnecessary detail will lose a reader, or bore them, or sound redundant.

2. Write like you talk

Some writers feel the best way to get their ideas on paper is to start with an oral representation.

You might try to dictate or narrate into a recording device or software program like Dragon  to hear what you are saying and then proceed to write or have the software do it for you.

What you produce will still require your editing and proofreading, but it will help you find a language tone that is suitable for your audience.

3. Mind your tone

Your words express who you are, your character and personality. Never has this been more true than today when so much of our communication happens through writing, whether you're texting, posting on  Facebook , or writing an essay or a blog post.

Not only does your written work have to be pin-perfect in spelling and grammar, but it has to say something and leave the reader with an impression.

Ever had an email that you felt was yelling at you? Why was that? Could it have been the bold underlining and the excessive use of exclamation marks? Sometimes, additions like this are useful, and create a sense of urgency, but likewise, not using the right tone can leave your message flat and unimpressive.

Find a tone that works for the message or information you are trying to convey and test it out orally, or in print on someone objective, before publishing

4. Use Imagery

Whether you picture a place, a person or an object, your ability to describe it clearly has to transpire to your reader. Use a physical approach: describe a person top to bottom, an event in chronological order, and an object in a tactile or sensory way.

If you think your words will leave the reader with the same picture in their mind that you had in yours to begin with, you have succeeded!

5. Write Dialogue

When you write dialogue dialogue, use simple language, and keep your sentences concise, but with a peppering of emotion.

6. Share inner thoughts and voices

Sometimes the best way to express yourself is through feelings rather than concrete ideas. Novelists have an ability to take what a character is thinking and use it to further develop them and their actions.

7. Answer questions

If you can put yourself in the position of the reader, perhaps you will find that what you're writing poses certain questions. Explaining and describing the necessary information will engage your reader. However, take care to not extend beyond the concise and relevant details.

8. Change Perspectives

Often your thoughts can be developed with better with a change in perspective. Say you’re writing about… home organization. Don’t just think of yourself as the harried housewife with too much clutter, but perhaps the busy executive who walks in the door and adds to the mess every day.

Or… if you are writing about losing weight through a gluten free diet, perhaps you could consider that packaged and ready foods are marketed poorly for people with this need. Step inside the viewpoint of another to express thoughts you perhaps hadn’t explored.

9. Practice

Perhaps in high school, you might recall studying précis writing in your English classes. There is a skill to being able to take a lengthy text and rewriting it down to a concise shorter piece.

To get really good at writing with brevity, use articles from a newspaper, or content from websites to practice the art of taking lengthy pieces and finding more concise language to still convey the same message.

Use synonyms. Take out overly technical language. Use stronger words that have better meanings than lengthy phrases or descriptions. Combine thoughts into one sentence. Learn how to use the semi-colon .

10. Edit, edit … and edit again

This is nothing new. Writers review what they have written all the time. Some walk away from their work and return to it after a time lapse, to look at it with somewhat of a fresh approach. Others hand it over to a second party which can give an objective review. Regardless of the method, rarely is something publishable shortly after it is written. Writing is a craft, and craftsmanship takes time and precision to develop.

Expressing yourself in the written form is not easy. Even the greatest writers past and present have their frustrations. Learning to understand that writing is a process, always changing and moving, a living thing is some ways, is to understand that it is the form of communication that represents us when we are not there to be ourselves. Find the right words until less is more becomes your mantra.

How about you? How do you express yourself in writing?  Share in the comments section .

Find a piece you wrote months ago. Don’t worry what it was for, but choose one with some length to it. Use the various techniques above to review the piece again.

• Try reading it aloud. Does it “talk” the way people do?
• Assess its tone. Is it too harsh, or not persuasive enough?
• Close your eyes. Can you visualize the details in the way you need them to become visualized?
• Are the thoughts deep enough? Little voices in the head are worth putting into your words.
• Try cutting it down by a third. This will help you learn what is really key and essential.
• Finally… answer questions. Think of all the questions the reader could have at the end of the piece, and ensure each one leads to a degree of satisfaction.

When you're finished, share a bit about your experience in the comments section . How'd it go?

Guest Blogger

This article is by a guest blogger. Would you like to write for The Write Practice? Check out our guest post guidelines .

18 Comments

I am not inspired. I don’t want to write like I speak. Creative people are all different so there is no regimentation of how people write. Some need a plan and some don’t. Yes, writing has to say something and where do we find that. Pick up 1000 books and none of them say anything. The reason to write is to make money and not tell a story. So there is no story in most books. More people are writing more than ever, writing nothing.

Len, I am so so so sorry that you don;t think people write anything any more. I am sorry that you think that the only purpose to writing is to make money. I have read so many books that touched my soul, made me think, or make me take a stance on something. How do you have the ability to write if you have no passion for it?

I get the feeling you could write confrontational creative non-fiction with a fierce antagonistic tone. Mix it up with some outrage and disappointment, drop in a few drop-kick pollies and whisk on high speed with a splash of anti-mainstream journalism. Bake until the knife comes out clean, leave to cool then dribble some vanilla ‘letters to the editor’ icing on top. And you will have a decidedly delicious and vicious best seller. At least you’ll be writing about something! 🙂

And that creative tiger of yours will find its voice and have some sweet dessert and a full belly.

Food for thought perhaps? 😉

Regards Dawn

Jessica ‘s tips are some of the best advice I have seen on this or any writing site or blog. My pet peeve is how “writers ” in the comments section write as if they are texting friends. Sometimes the grammar and especially the punctuation is not professional. My feeling is that you should write your best whenever you post or comment. What do others believe about comments on blogs and writing sites? Thank you Jessica for the opportunity to “express” myself. @ http://www.BESTBOOKSBYBETH.COM

I try to comment using grammar and sentence structure. I type exactly what flows from my head into my fingers. I get that everyone is not the best typist. I am an awful speller. I am lucky if I get everything spelled right by the time I hit post.

I agree, Helaine, and sometimes my Kindle provides autospelling and I cannot get it to stop providing words I did not wish to type. Patience is needed when we write and revise. Best wishes in your writing for pleasure or profit.

Thank you! 😉

I took the first chapter of a new novella I have started on. Reading it out loud I was able to clear some fog, add more details about the protagonist’s external environment and develop the connection between the stormy weather and her inner turmoil.

I believe there will be a curiousity to know more about this character by the end of the chapter which will unfold through the story. However I was inclined to add some tell tale details to appease some possible questions for example: the state of her hair, the style and condition of her clothes, the music playing on the radio, the pile of dishes in the sink, the crumbs clinging to her feet from unswept floors etc.

By returning to this piece of writing with posted suggestions I managed to peel back the telling and glide in to the showing of the story with some ease.

Thanks for this as I probably wouldn’t have got back to this piece of writing for several months.

Regard Dawn

These are very good tips. However (1) in imagery, you can examine to add (insert) pictures to create mood, (2) add points how to retain reader’s attention. Thanks

I write the way I tell the story, so was pleased to see those two steps listed. I also read my stories aloud. Good article.

Me too!) Thank you!

This article was a nice reminder and I really related to number 1. I did great at school essays and I think it was because i planned it out. I’m going to try to take this perspective into my writing and see how it goes! Thanks alot!

I swiped my forehead at the precipitation gathering there. Good, no wind. Less chances of the ball flaying far.

Piper examined our filed formation before calling to the kicker. “Jake, are you ready?”

Jake yelled affirmative and took a running stance. Everyone followed.

Crouching, my feet muscles flexed, my eyes locked on to the ball.

Ka-bunk! The ball rose above the tree line. My heart thumped and dipped along with the ball.

“Catch it!!” I yelled. Holding my position as blood coursed through me, inducing me to run for it. To catch it. You can’t do everything, I thought reluctantly. You have to trust your friends!

The ball gave a thump as it landed in Alex’s arms. “YES!!” I jumped with my fist in the air. “Way to go, Alex!! WOHOO!!”

– This is a whole 22 words less from the first version. Makes me proud.

I struggle In writing my thoughts in exams. I do well in assignments and essays when I have time, however when it comes to exams I bottom out….

Even if I know my information from top to bottom and see the images in my head, when time is a factor, words escape me. It is so bad that I go from getting High Distinctions in my assignments to barely passing my exams, I need help but have no idea who or where to turn to.

kind regards,o

Kim, writing for exams doesn’t have to be scary. First, read the prompt (more than once) and make sure that you understand exactly what they want. Then, complete a graphic organizer–organization is a huge factor in exam grades and a web, t-chart, or outline will help you organize your essay. Don’t forget your development–examples or quotes from the text (depending on the prompt) and how the example/text supports your thesis. Practice writing this way–we call it a “0-draft” (or original draft) and know that it will not be perfect. Good luck!

Good… first what u need to do is think precise…..if u cant able to express urself properly then u should memorize some words or phrases in order to achieve good grades

Thank you so much for sharing these 10 steps! I am sure they will help me to improve my writing skills. By the way, you should check out this free plagiarism checker . This tool is great for writers and bloggers.

Thank you so much for sharing these amazing writing tips! I am so happy I’ve found them here! They will help me to become a better writer. check for plagiarism

I’m getting out of preparation swamp and its tough but my hip waders are keeping me dry with all the muck as i’m watching out for the gators and snakes.

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Why is Self-Expression Important?

Self-expression is important because it allows people to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a meaningful way. Self-expression can take many forms, such as writing, speaking, singing, dancing, painting, or any other creative activity. By expressing themselves, people can share their unique perspectives and experiences with others and also learn more about themselves. It can also help people cope with stress, boost their self-esteem, and foster a sense of identity and belonging.

Sanju Pradeepa

Think about the last time you expressed yourself creatively. Maybe you painted, sang, danced, or wrote something. How did it feel? Did you feel free? connected to something bigger?

When it comes to self-expression, there are no wrong answers. Whether you’re an artist, a musician, a writer, or anything in between, expressing yourself is one of the most important things you can do.

Self-expression allows you to share your thoughts and feelings with the world. It’s a way to connect with other people, and it can be a powerful tool for healing and growth. Above all, it’s a way to show the world who you are.

So why is self-expression important? For one thing, it’s a way to connect with others on a deeper level. When you share your thoughts and feelings honestly, people can feel connected to you in a way they wouldn’t otherwise. It also helps you learn more about yourself. The more you express yourself, the more you learn about your own thoughts and feelings.

Ultimately, self-expression is a way to connect with the world and become more fully yourself. There’s no single right way to do it. Just find what works best for you and go for it.

Table of Contents

Self-expression: an act of understanding yourself.

Self-expression is the act of putting your feelings and thoughts into the world. It’s a way of communicating who you are, what you stand for, and what’s important to you. For some people, self-expression might mean writing poetry or songs. For others, it might be painting, drawing, or sculpting. And for still others, it might be dancing, acting, or creating handmade crafts.

It is all about understanding yourself. It’s a way of exploring your emotions and feelings. It’s a way of taking all of the things that make you unique and putting them on display for everyone to see.

The important thing is that self-expression is personal. It’s a way for you to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with the world. And when you do, you connect with other people on a deeper level. They see a little bit of themselves in your words or your artwork or your dance moves. They feel connected to you because you’ve shared something that’s personal and meaningful to you.

Why Is Self-Expression Important?

Self-expression is important because it allows people to share their thoughts and feelings with the world. It’s a way to connect with others, to share experiences and to build relationships . When we express ourselves, we’re letting others know who we are, and that can be very powerful.

Think about the last time you shared something intimate with someone. Maybe you told them about a personal struggle you’re going through, or you shared a piece of your artwork or writing. What did that feel like? Chances are, it felt pretty good. It’s like you were suddenly able to put a name and a face to the emotion or experience you were describing. You were able to communicate in a way that went beyond words.

When you express yourself, you’re telling the world that you exist. You’re saying that you’re not afraid to be different, and that you’re not afraid to stand out from the crowd. You’re saying that you’re proud of who you are , and that you’re not afraid to show the world your true colors.

It helps you understand yourself on a deeper level, and it allows you to share your story with the world. That’s the power of self-expression. It bridges the gap between people, and it allows us to see the world from a different perspective.

It has the power to make us feel powerful and confident. When we express ourselves authentically, we become better equipped to tackle tough situations head-on. At its core, self-expression gives us an opportunity to manifest our unique potential and share our innermost thoughts with the world.

The beauty of self-expression is that there’s no right or wrong way of doing it. Whether you choose to paint, write poetry, design clothes or create music the possibilities are endless. What matters is that it’s meaningful to you. So don’t be afraid of putting yourself out there you never know what could come out of it.

• Expressing yourself gives you a chance to explore and develop your individuality.
• You can discover interests and talents that you never knew you had and build on existing ones.
• It helps you develop better communication skills. Being able to effectively communicate your thoughts and feelings gives you the confidence to express yourself in all kinds of relationships.
• Self-expression can also help with creativity. Expressing yourself in writing or art can help you explore different ideas and create something unique that is representative of who you are.
• It encourages creativity, which can be beneficial for problem-solving as well.
• Self-expression leads to increased self-awareness and self-discovery as it helps uncover inner emotions, thoughts, and beliefs that may have been hidden until then.
• It also helps us understand ourselves better, leading to further personal growth and development .
• We’re also opening ourselves up to new possibilities, and sometimes we stumble upon insights or ideas we never would have thought of if we’d stayed in our comfort zone .

The Role of Self-Expression in Personal Growth

Self-expression is an important part of personal growth and development. It gives you the opportunity to explore and express your thoughts, feelings, values, and beliefs. When you express yourself, it’s a chance to be open to learning new things and discovering new perspectives.

It can also be beneficial in managing stress and anxiety. Expressing yourself can help you cope with difficult emotions in a healthy way by providing an outlet for release. This can lead to better understanding of yourself and others, as well as improved problem-solving skills.

When we can express ourselves without fear of judgment, we can truly explore the depths of our minds and hearts in ways essential for self-growth. We can gain clarity on our values, figure out what matters to us, and identify our unique passions and goals. By giving ourselves permission to express ourselves fully, without holding back, we open up space to heal from pain or embrace joy, with all the wisdom in between.

Most importantly, self-expression is a powerful tool for living with more authenticity; it allows us to be more honest with ourselves and others, keeping us true to who we truly are. In turn, this deepens relationships, encourages meaningful conversations, and reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles or successes.

The Role of self-expression in art and culture

Self-expression plays an important role in art and culture as it allows us to express our opinions, beliefs, and values through creative expression. When we create something that is meaningful to us and share it with others, we are able to create a connection with them over the shared experience. This can be incredibly powerful for both the creator and the audience.

By engaging in activities such as writing, painting, dancing, making music, or creating digital art forms, we are able to communicate our feelings and thoughts in a way that may not otherwise be possible. We can take what is within us and convey it to the world without words, creating something beautiful in the process.

Through self-expression we also open ourselves up to understanding more about who we are in relation to others. By exploring our own voice within different contexts, we gain a better understanding of what makes us unique as individuals, allowing us to create positively impactful works of art that can resonate with many people.

The Role of Self-Expression in communication

Think about the last time you had an important conversation. What was your body language saying? How did you feel?

If you’re like most people, you were probably trying to come across as credible, persuasive and in control . But what if you could let your guard down a little bit and express yourself more authentically?

When we express ourselves freely, we’re more likely to build trust and connection with the other person. We also show that we trust them enough to be vulnerable. It’s a sign of respect and openness that can really strengthen relationships.

Creative Ways to Express Yourself

When it comes to self-expression, there are no rules. You can express yourself however you want, in any way you want. It’s all about finding what works for you and tapping into your creative side.

Starting to explore new ways to express yourself can seem daunting, but there are plenty of creative outlets that can help get your ideas out into the world. For example, you can try writing anything from journaling to stories, or even poetry. You could also try your hand at visual arts, like painting or drawing.

If you’re not sure how to start, don’t worry. It’s ok to be a beginner and take your time getting comfortable with a craft. A great way is by dedicating specific times during the day when you just practice and experiment with different mediums and techniques.

Don’t be afraid to explore ideas that haven’t been done before either. Experimenting with self-expression can open up new possibilities for creativity that you hadn’t thought of before. Even if a project doesn’t turn out the way you initially thought it would, it’s always a learning experience and an opportunity for growth.

• Journaling – Writing your thoughts on paper is one of the most popular outlets for self-expression. Keeping a daily journal is perfect for releasing stress and reflecting on your emotions.
• Arts & Crafts – Artistic outlets such as painting and drawing are great ways to express your feelings without speaking.
• Exercise – Expressing yourself through physical activity is the perfect way to process emotions in a healthy way. Exercise releases endorphins which can help improve your mood and uplift your spirits.
• Music & Dance – Sometimes all we need is a good song or a few minutes dancing around the living room! Music can speak volumes when words fail. It’s therapeutic and soothing for our minds and souls.

Tips for Fostering Self-Expression

Now that we’ve explored the importance of self-expression, let’s talk about how you can foster it in your own life. To get started, consider the following tips.

1.Make sure to give yourself time and space to create and express yourself.

This means setting aside a few minutes each day just to do something creative, like writing or drawing. And when you do so, let yourself be free and unencumbered by external expectations. Allow yourself the freedom to create without worrying about the outcome.

2.Don’t be afraid to take risks.

Self-expression involves taking chances and exploring new ideas and perspectives. So don’t shy away from trying something new out of fear let yourself go where your creativity takes you. It can be refreshing to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself creatively.

3.Remember that self-expression is a process, not a destination.

It’s okay if it takes time for you to find your rhythm or discover what works for you all great things take time. With patience, practice and dedication you can find success in expressing what matters most to you.

Challenges Faced When Trying to Express Yourself

It can be difficult to express yourself in a world where people often keep their opinions to themselves. In the past, many have faced judgment, persecution or worse for speaking their mind. Therefore, it can be intimidating to start expressing yourself, especially if you feel like you don’t fit in with the norms.

But challenging yourself to break out of your comfort zone is part of self-expression. You should focus on developing your voice, rather than comparing it to someone else’s opinion or views. As long as you are pushing past your boundaries to open up and explore different ways of expressing yourself whether through writing, art or other forms of communication it will pay off in the long run.

Put simply: creative expression is about so much more than just making art. It’s about being brave enough to take risks and embrace your individual story. It’s about diving deep within and discovering new parts of yourself that may full reveal themselves when given permission to do so.

Have you ever felt a jolt of energy when creating something? Maybe it’s crafting a DIY project, writing out your thoughts in a journal, or expressing yourself through art or music. That’s because self-expression can be a powerful tool to help us better understand our own feelings and emotions.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an artist whose portfolio is filled with masterpieces, or even if you don’t have any creative ability at all. Self-expression is open to everyone, regardless of skill level. The beauty of it is the unique version you can create that fits your own personality. Not only that, but it can also provide a sense of relaxation and calmness it’s like hitting the reset button for your mind and soul.

Self-expression can also help us improve our communication skills. It gives us a way to break out of our comfort zone and articulate our thoughts, ideas, and feelings in a productive and positive way that we might not otherwise be able to do face-to-face. Last but not least, self-expression can also provide an emotional release that allows us to process difficult situations more effectively and maybe even draw inspiration from them too.

Though remember that we all have different ways of expressing ourselves, and there’s no wrong way to do it. The important thing is to find what works for you and to embrace it. Don’t be afraid to experiment and to explore new forms of self-expression. You may be surprised at what you find.

Thank you for reading. We hope you enjoyed this article.

• Self-Expression Examples and Tips: How to Express Yourself Written by Masterclass
• What Is Self-Expression? (20 Activities + Examples 2018  by  Courtney E. Ackerman, MA
• The Benefits Of Expressing Your Emotions by Svetlana Whitener Forbes Councils Member , Forbes Coaches Council

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The Power of Expressing Yourself

Talking about your fears can help get rid of them..

Posted September 19, 2012

People always say it’s good to put “your feelings into words.” But is it true? If you think about it, the advice seems somewhat counterintuitive. If you are anxious, scared, or worried about something, is it really going to make you feel better to dwell on this anxiety by speaking or writing about it?

The answer, it turns out, is yes. New research published this month in the journal Psychological Science shows quite clearly that, when it comes to the phobias we have, simply talking about them helps curb negative responses to what we fear.

UCLA scientists Katharina Kircanski, Matt Lieberman, and Michelle Craske demonstrated the power of words for people with a professed spider phobia. The experiment went something like this: First, the spider phobics were asked to stand outside next to a Chilean rose-haired tarantula (don’t worry, it was in a container). People were encouraged to approach the spider little by little. On the first step people took, they were about five feet from the spider. On the last step, they had to touch the spider continuously with the tip of their index finger. Not so fun for spider phobics, but the experiment was only getting started. Next, people were randomly assigned to take part in one of four treatment groups while they sat about two feet from the spider.

In the affect-labeling (i.e., putting your feelings into words) group, people were instructed to speak a sentence that included negative words about the spider and their feelings—for example, “I feel anxious the disgusting tarantula will jump on me.”

Those in the reappraisal group were instead told to speak about the spider in non-emotional terms—for example, “Looking at the little spider is not dangerous for me.”

People assigned to the distraction group had to say something unrelated to the spider—for example “There is a television in front of my couch at home.”

A fourth, a control group, received no particular instructions.

Everyone went through the exercises for their specific treatment group several times in a row spanning a two-day period. A week later, folks were invited back to interact with a new spider.

So, what did the researchers find? Interestingly, there was no difference in reported fear toward the spider. People were afraid of the spider, and this self-professed fear didn’t change over the course of the experiment, regardless of what treatment they had completed. However, there was a difference in both physiological measures of fearful arousal (skin conductance) and willingness to approach the spider. The affect-labeling group showed less arousal and was also generally more willing to interact with the spider one week after the treatment than the other groups. And the more fear and anxiety words people in the affect-labeling group used to describe their spider phobia during the experiment, the more they seemed to get over their fear of spiders .

It might seem odd that talking about your worries would actually lessen negative arousal and help you act less fearful, but there is a growing body of work showing the power of speech. In a paper my graduate student, Gerardo Ramirez, and I published last year in the journal Science , and that I blogged about here , we showed that simply getting high school students to spend 10 minutes before a high- stress exam putting their worries down on paper led to increased test performance—boosting the grades of those students who professed to have the most test anxiety from a B- to a B+.

Ironically, when we label our fears, they are less likely to pop up in mind at a later date and lead us astray. Verbalizing our anxieties seems to help us manage our behavior. This is true whether we are trying to get over our fear of eight-legged creatures or ace a high-stakes test.

For more on how to curb fears and anxieties so you can perform at your best, check out my book Choke !

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Kircanski, K. et al. (2012). Feelings Into Words: Contributions of Language to Exposure Therapy . Psychological Science

Sian Beilock, Ph.D. , is a cognitive scientist and the President of Barnard College at Columbia University. She's an expert on why people choke under pressure and how to fix it.

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How to Improve Your Self Expression (The Answer May Surprise You)

Let me take you on a journey...Initially, I wanted to create a blog post about how writing improves your self expression skills.

The reason? Well, since the launch of my writing business and since I've started writing more, my speaking has improved. That’s not to say it was bad before, but writing has helped me speak with greater clarity.

So, I started researching to see if other people experienced this and whether there was scientific evidence to back it up.I came across a question posed on Quora that asked the following: “ How do I Improve My Communication Skills /Self Expression Skills”. The answers varied from reading more to writing more.

Someone even suggested taking the opportunity to engage in public speaking. Then Baohan Tran Le said the following: “I am not sure whether you mean expression in terms of writing/arts or expression in term of vocalizing your thoughts/feelings.”This steered me in another direction. I was going to explore self expression and how you can improve it.

It also made me think. What does self expression actually mean? Here’s one definition according to Merriam-Webster :  “the expression of your thoughts or feelings especially through artistic activities (such as painting, writing, dancing, etc.)." It’s the way we display our individuality.My thought process was then engaged in how people can better express themselves. But in my mind, I thought, “This is too broad. Who’s actually going to read this? This sucks.”

Still, I dug further as this broad concept of self expression interested me.I then found two articles. The first - by the Attraction Institute - mentions that self expression isn’t achieved by learning a new skill, but rather by removing old ones. The article went on to say that we’re all born self-expressive. I started thinking. The second , by VirtuesforLife , touched on the fact that children are more self-expressive than adults. I started thinking even more and an article started taking shape in my head. I was ready to write a post on how to improve self expression.

And no, I’m not going to tell you to practice your writing, read a book, paint, or engage in a hobby. I’m going to break the shackles and get to the core. And to do this I need to paint a picture. I need to start at the beginning. ‍

We’re all born with self expression

We’re all born with something that makes us unique. As children, we’re fully expressive. There’s nothing holding us back, we’re free, and we have no responsibilities. Mark Manson says it rather aptly in his article “ Screw Finding Your Passion ”:

Remember back when you were a kid? You would just do things. You never thought to yourself, “What are the relative merits of learning baseball versus football?” You just ran around the playground and played baseball and football. You built sand castles and played tag and asked silly questions and looked for bugs and dug up grass and pretended you were a sewer monster. Nobody told you to do it, you just did it. You were led merely by your curiosity and excitement.

But somewhere along the way we became domesticated; we became primed for adulthood. ‍

The good and the bad of domestication

With domestication, I refer to all the rules, regulations, institutions, and mannerisms that have been thrust on us, causing us to act a certain way.

We’re taught to think a certain way. We’re taught how to act in public. We’re taught manners. We’re taught wrong and right. We’re taught what’s acceptable and what’s not.

All these things shape us in some way or the other, for better, or for worse. For better, because they teach us how to live among our fellow man or women. For worse, because in many ways, we’re taught a linear way of thinking – go to school, get a job, build a career, and save for retirement. All of which imply: grow up and become an adult!

Through domestication, the process of self expression doesn’t come naturally anymore. Either we’ve lost our innate ability or we hold back on expressing ourselves more. We say and do certain things because we care what people think or because of our conditioning.

I’m not advocating doing what we want with total disregard for our fellow humans. I’m just painting a picture of how domestication can cause us to lose ourselves along the way. We’re told we need to act like adults, and so, that inner child remains hidden. Part of who we are then remains hidden, only showing itself every once in a while through the clothes we wear, decisions we make, and actions we take. Although, rather rarely and not as often as it should.This begs the question. How do we rekindle what makes us, us?

How do we get in touch with our inner child? ‍

Living with limiting beliefs

During this time we also develop limiting beliefs that hold us back. Limiting beliefs are often about our self-image and what we believe is possible in our own lives.For example, we might believe we cannot write, sing, or learn a new language . And so we will never try. The problem with this is that we see our abilities as fixed and so they remain exactly that, fixed!

In the words of Henry Ford: “Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right.”Here’s another example. Many of us believe we have to pick one career. One thing. We have to specialize. We have to find our niche. There’s this myth about the “one true calling”. You only have to watch the Ted Talk by Emilie Wapnick - “ Why Some of Us Don’t have One True Calling ” - to know this is bullshit.

There are many of us who are polymaths or multipotentialites - people who have many interests, passions, and creative pursuits. We are the opposite of specialists. I am one of those people and specializing is not for me. At all! For those of us multipotentialites, how can we hope to express ourselves with such a limiting belief? We’ll forever be chasing that one thing, to no avail, always feeling unfulfilled. And the truth is, we're not wired like that.

These beliefs stop us from realizing our full potential in life. And we cannot hope to achieve higher levels of self expression if we’re constrained by these beliefs.

Expressing ourselves better then involves recognizing that we’re all born free and self-expressive, but through domestication, we’ve lost touch with our self expression. We’ve formed limiting beliefs of what we believe is possible in our own lives. This recognition is the starting point to get us back on track.

Once we’re here, it’s time to start taking back who we are. And this isn’t easy. Because when we’ve been taught something for so long, it becomes so ingrained in us, it becomes who we are.

But taking back who we are is possible. We just need to rekindle that flame.

Getting Ourselves Back On Track

1. defining ourselves in the broadest possible sense.

Because of limiting beliefs, we often define ourselves in a narrow way. We think we only have a certain set of skills and strengths. We base our lives on a limited way of thinking, and this, in turn, limits our experiences. The reality though is we can re-define ourselves, and this often starts with exploring new ideas, new ways of thinking, and new experiences.

For example, I cannot tell you how often I get into a conversation revolving around creativity. It usually starts with something along these lines: “But I’m not creative”. I had one with a stranger I met at a pub. And needless to say, I disagreed with her because I believe we're all creative. Every. Single. One. Of. Us.

The problem is that we associate creativity with artists, musicians, songwriters etc. But the reality is: if we’re able to find solutions to unique problems, we’re being creative. Tyler Tervooren, creator of Riskology opened my eyes to this in his article “ Practical Ways to Find Creativity When You’re Feeling Uncreative ”.

In it, he says the following: Creativity is all around us but, for so many, it remains invisible—hidden in plain sight—because we’ve conditioned ourselves to look for it in only a few places. There are so many places you can draw new ideas from to improve your work if you look just a little harder.

So let’s look at a few examples of people being creative:

• The account who manages to streamline the payroll process by cutting out unnecessary steps.
• A driver for a courier company who finds a shorter route to speed up delivery time.
• The business owner who finds an app to automate their social media marketing.

Over to youStart defining yourself more broadly. A great place to start is by watching Ted Talks . They will change the way you think and see the world. And maybe even give you a kickstart to forge a new path in your life. ‍

2. Trying something new

People often talk about getting out of their comfort zones because that’s where the magic is. And as cliché, as it is, there’s much truth in that. For example, I quit my job to backpack around the world for over a year. It opened my eyes to a new way of living and made me realize that I don’t want to work for someone. I want to create a life on my terms, one where I am location independent and my own boss.

I’m not saying traveling is the answer for all of us - we are all different - but it’s just what I did because that’s where my heart took me. But what I do advocate is that we try new things, whatever they may be.Over to youConsider what you want to try or do? What are the new things you want to explore? What is stopping you from doing them? What can you do right now to realize them? What small changes can you make in your life?

Maybe it’s greeting a stranger, chatting to a waitress about their lives, climbing a mountain, swimming naked in the ocean, waking up to experience the sunset or even trying a new food. ‍

3. Develop Self-Knowledge

Sometimes we need to stop, pause, and reflect on our own lives. We need to look inward and explore ourselves. By understanding ourselves better we'll be better poised to explore what it is we want out of life. It will give us a greater sense of direction in life and we'll move and act with purpose. And perhaps, nothing contributes more to improved self expression than a sense of purpose. Over to you.

Here are a few things you can explore:

What are your core strengths?

Sometimes there are things that we’re so naturally good at, we aren’t even aware of it. Maybe it’s our communication skills. Maybe it’s our problem-solving ability. Start exploring those things you’re inherently good at. List 20. And if you need help, ask family and friends, but be wary of their bias. ‍

What are your passions?

‍ I’m a believer that we can find passion in anything we do. It’s just a matter of how we approach that thing. If we approach it with a negative attitude, chances are, we won’t enjoy it. A great way to start exploring your passions to try and remember moments when you felt alive. For me, it’s when I’m talking about business ideas with friends or brainstorming. And sometimes they’re starting us in the face, we’re just blind to seeing them.

Have a look at your Facebook feed. What content are you sharing? What are common themes?What words describe your personality?Write words down, words that describe you. Perhaps you’re caring? Diligent? Resourceful? This is another technique to delve deeper into how you tick. Again, ask family and friends.

What are your values?

‍ Values are important. We feel happier and more content when we make decisions guided by our values. Make a list of 7 values. Using this list will help you.T

hese are just some exercises to get you started. If you want to take things further visit PaidtoExist and Puttylike . These two websites helped me immensely. ‍

4. Practice Speaking the Truth

So often we walk away from situations feeling that we should've been more open. We should've told people exactly how we felt. This may be due to not wanting to hurt the person, fear of conflict, or due to a lack of self-confidence. Regardless as to the reason, we often beat ourselves up afterward.

Over to you.

Challenge yourself to speak freely without fear. This will take practice. But the more you do it, the easier it will get. Do it once, twice, then three times, and eventually it becomes second nature. It becomes a way of life. ‍

5. Letting go of what people think

As with speaking the truth, this takes practice. Again, I’m not advocating not giving a shit and hurting people's feelings. What I’m talking about is how we often don’t do certain things - things that are important to us - because we care about what other people think.

Public speaking is culprit number one. I still care way too much, although I have worked on this to the point that I’m a lot more content.Over to youStart putting yourself out there. Let me explain. In 2015 I launched a blog. I made a 90s video about it and put it up for everyone to see (by everyone I mean a few hundred people). Nevertheless, I was scared and nervous. What if people thought it sucked? What if they laughed at me or shamed me?

Well, guess what happened? Nothing. People actually liked it. In the end caring what people think is a projection of our own insecurities and we only overcome these fears by taking action.So take action. Action displaces fear. ‍

6. Engage in creative exercises

Okay, fine! I’m going to suggest this even though I said I wouldn’t because I’ve seen the value in my own life. For example, through writing, I’ve seen a marked improvement in my communication with people, and that’s not to mention my actual writing. And the spin-off? Improved confidence!In the end, writing is a fantastic way to unravel how we feel, express our emotions, and learn things about ourselves. And it could even turn into a passion or a business, as was the case with me. Over to you.

So why not write for yourself? Other creative exercises I recommend is: keep a notebook, draw mind maps, and create dream sanctuaries (pictures and quotes) relating to all that you want to achieve in your life. ‍

7. Start Pursuing The Life You Want

It’s been four years since I’ve had an office job. Since then I’ve traveled, launched a blog, worked part time at a winery, launched a writing business and I’m now launching an app. It all sounds glamorous. But among that, it’s been 4 years of ups and down, with feelings of unhappiness.

Why? Because I knew that I wasn’t living the life I wanted. So that happiness stemmed from a disconnect between what I wanted and where I was in life.

Still, I continued and things started to take shape, and are still taking shape.I didn’t follow an exact template to get to where I am. I did a bit of this and a bit of that. I tried new things, gained self-knowledge (and continue to), started caring less (it took practice), tried to remain authentic at all times and I engaged in creative techniques. I did this all rather haphazardly, some by chance, and others through asserted action.

But there was one constant: I kept moving.I’d like to tell you that there’s a template to express yourself more fully, but there isn’t, there’s only advice people can give. Everyone’s journey will be different. But what I can tell you is that the above has worked for me.

And in the process, I have come full circle.I have rekindled that energy I was born with. And that’s it really.

Do you constantly feel intimidated when you speak a new language?

Speak with confidence on day 1.

Expressing Yourself: A Guide To Self-expression

Expressing yourself is such an important part of who you are, and it can be a healthy way to deal with stress . However, some types of self-expression may not be so great for your mental health . In this blog post, we will discuss what self-expression is and why it’s important for our mental well-being. We will also talk about the different types of expression and how they affect us differently. Then we will give useful tips on how to find healthy ways to express ourselves in all aspects of life (including at work).

• 1.1 What Self-Expression Is Not?
• 1.2 What Is The Difference Between Healthy And Unhealthy Self-expression?
• 1.3 What Constitutes Offensiveness?
• 2.1 The Two Main Types (Largely Used For Communication)
• 2.2 The Two Common Types (Based On Degree Of Expression)
• 2.3 The Other Types (Based On Intention Behind Communication)
• 3.1 Free Speech And Self Expression
• 3.2 Offensive Self-expression And Free Speech
• 3.3 Importance Of Free Speech
• 3.4 The Bottom Line
• 4 Expressing Yourself In The Era Of Social Media
• 5.1 Resources For Healthy Self-expression
• 6 Professionals’ View and Tips On Healthy Self-expression
• 7 Conclusion

What Is Self-expression?

Self-expression is often defined as how we communicate our emotions, thoughts, and beliefs to other people. It’s an important part of who you are, how you relate with others and it can affect your mental well-being greatly if done in a negative or unhealthy manner.

Self-expression is one of the primary ways we communicate with others. It’s how we share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences with the people around us. For some people, self-expression can be a very healthy way to deal with stress or difficult emotions. It can help us feel more connected to others and it can also make us feel more empowered.

However, for some people self-expression can also be a way to release anger or other negative emotions . If this is done in an uncontrolled or destructive manner it can lead to problems with our mental health. As, it can cause us to feel isolated from others, increase stress levels, and even lead to depression or anxiety .

What Self-Expression Is Not?

Self-expression is not the same as self-indulgence. It’s also different than selfishness, which involves only focusing on yourself without considering how your actions affect other people around you. Expressing who we are should take into account what happens to others because of our choices and behaviors; it can be part of helping them out or bringing them down.

Self-expression is not always healthy

Just because we can express ourselves, doesn’t mean that we should do it in every situation or in a way that’s harmful to us. There are times when it’s better to hold back and not say anything at all.

For example, if you’re feeling angry and you lash out at someone, that’s not healthy self-expression. It might feel good to get all of those angry feelings out at the moment, but it’s not going to help you or the other person in the long run.

In addition, some forms of self-expression can be considered offensive and may hurt others. For example, telling racist jokes or making lewd comments about another person’s body.

Offensive self-expression is not healthy and can lead to retaliation against you if the other person feels offended enough. This could result in a lawsuit for sexual harassment, getting fired from your job for creating a hostile work environment with offensive language, etc.

What Is The Difference Between Healthy And Unhealthy Self-expression?

There is a big difference between healthily expressing yourself and doing so in an unhealthy manner. Healthy self-expression comes from a place of authenticity and allows you to connect with others on a deeper level. It can be anything from talking openly about your feelings, writing poetry or songs that express what’s going on inside of you, painting, or dancing.

Unhealthy self-expression involves things like yelling or screaming, breaking things when you’re angry, hitting something to let out your aggression, etc. The unhealthy expression also includes acts of violence such as bullying and hurting others because it makes us feel better about ourselves in the short term but doesn’t help resolve our problems at all. It can also involve saying things that are hurtful or mean to others just to get a reaction.

What Constitutes Offensiveness?

This is a difficult subject because what one person finds offensive, another might not. However, there are some things that almost everyone would consider grossly inappropriate if they were ever said publicly or in the workplace:

• Calling someone by a certain derogatory name repeatedly (even though you think it’s funny). If the other person doesn’t like it, they will probably let you know.
• Making sexual comments about someone’s body parts or using profanity when talking to them directly (or in their presence).
• Joking about subjects that are sensitive for the other person such as race, religion, disabilities, etc. This doesn’t mean you can never joke around with your friends, but be aware of what might be offensive to them.

NOTE : Self-expression isn’t bullying or putting other people down through negative behavior such as making fun of someone else or using sarcasm to hurt someone’s feelings. It also isn’t trying to control or change the way others think or behave. If you’re not sure whether or not a certain type of self-expression is appropriate, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid saying or doing anything that could potentially hurt someone else’s feelings.

Types Of Self Expression

There are several types of self-expression, and depending on the type you use can affect your well-being in different ways.

The Two Main Types (Largely Used For Communication)

Verbal self expression.

This type of expression is done through talking, whether it’s with friends, family, or a therapist . It can also be in the form of yelling or screaming and can be a healthy release of negative emotions, however, it’s important to make sure you’re not overdoing this type of self-expression as well.

Non-Verbal Self Expression

This is done through nonverbal communication such as facial expressions or body language. While some forms of nonverbal expression are acceptable in most situations (such as smiling), others (such as crossed arms) can be seen as defensive or unapproachable.

The Two Common Types (Based On Degree Of Expression)

There are many different types of self-expression, and they can be divided into two categories: expressive and defensive.

Expressive Self-expression

Expressive self-expression is when we communicate our thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a healthy way that allows us to connect with others. This type of expression can be used to form strong relationships with others and is generally seen as positive.

Defensive Self-expression

On the other hand, defensive self-expression is when we communicate our thoughts in a way that doesn’t allow for healthy communication or understanding of ourselves or others. This type of expression can lead to isolation from others due to unapproachable body language (such as crossed arms) or negative facial expressions. It can also lead to more stress and anxiety in our lives.

NOTE : While expressive self-expression is generally seen as positive, it’s important to remember that all types of self-expression should be used healthily. This means that if you’re using verbal expression to yell or scream at someone, it’s not healthy and you should find a different way to deal with your anger or stress.

The Other Types (Based On Intention Behind Communication)

Creative self expression.

This type of expression is often in the form of writing, art, or music. It can be a healthy way to express yourself and your emotions when done correctly. For instance, writing can help you to process and understand your thoughts and feelings better, while art can be a great way to express emotions that are difficult to put into words.

Intellectual Self Expression

This type of expression is found in the way that you communicate your opinions and thoughts to others. Sometimes it can be a good thing, but some people over-express their ideas which may alienate them from those around them as well as make another feel like they need to share similar beliefs.

Sexual Self Expression

This type of expression is often found in the form of sexual behavior and can be a normal part of expressing yourself sexually. However, if you’re acting out on your desires with others it could lead to negative consequences such as STIs or unwanted pregnancies which would not be considered healthy self-expression.

Emotional Self Expression

This type of expression is often found in the form of anger or sadness and can be healthy or unhealthy depending on how it’s expressed. For instance, crying or yelling when you’re feeling sad is a healthy way to express your emotions, but punching a wall or screaming at someone else is not.

Self-expression VS Free Speech

Free Speech And Self Expression

• Free speech is the right that allows us to express our thoughts and opinions without fear of persecution by government officials for not agreeing with them.
• Self-expression is a form of free speech because this type of expression allows us to communicate our thoughts and feelings without fear of persecution from others.

NOTE : Free speech is the right to express yourself freely without fear of retribution or punishment. It’s an important part of democracy and helps ensure that all voices are heard. Self-expression is not the same as free speech. Self-expression happens when you express your thoughts, feelings, and emotions to others.

Offensive Self-expression And Free Speech

We live in a society that values freedom of speech and the right to express ourselves however we see fit. But there is such thing as offensive self-expression. For example, if you dress in a way that is deliberately provocative just to get a reaction from others, or if you’re extremely vocal about your views even though you know they will offend people, then that would be considered offensive self-expression.

Importance Of Free Speech

Free speech is important because it helps ensure that all voices are heard. When we’re not allowed to express our thoughts and opinions, we can feel alienated and voiceless. This is especially true in a democracy, where free speech is essential for allowing all voices to be heard.

The Bottom Line

While there is no question that we have the right to express ourselves freely, it’s important to remember that not everyone is going to agree with what we have to say. Some people might find our views downright offensive. That’s why it’s so important to be respectful of others when we’re expressing ourselves and to think about how our words might affect them.

Expressing Yourself In The Era Of Social Media

It’s no secret that we live in a digital age where social media plays a huge role in our lives. With platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, it’s easier than ever to share our thoughts and opinions with the world. But what does this mean for self-expression?

For one thing, it means that there are more opportunities than ever to express ourselves. But it also means that we need to be careful about what we share. The internet is a public space, and anything we post can be seen by anyone, including potential employers or future dates.

That’s why it’s important to think carefully about what we share online and to make sure that our posts reflect who we are as people. If we want to express ourselves in a way that’s respectful of others, then we should avoid posting anything that might be considered offensive.

Tips For Healthy Self-expression

Now that we know what self-expression is and some of the things that can make it unhealthy, let’s talk about how we can express ourselves in a way that benefits both us and those around us.

Start by evaluating your motives for wanting to express yourself

Are you doing it because you really need to get something off your chest, or are you just trying to be provocative or get a reaction from people? If it’s the latter, then you should probably reconsider.

Make sure that your words and actions are aligned

In other words, don’t say one thing and do another. If you’re feeling angry, appropriately express that anger (e.g., taking deep breaths, punching your pillow, getting up, and walking away).

Remember that not everyone is going to agree with you or like what you do

This doesn’t mean they are wrong; it just means that we see things differently sometimes (even if one of us thinks something is right while the other believes it’s wrong). Be respectful in your disagreements and try to understand where the other person is coming from.

If you’re in a position of authority

If you’re in a position of authority (like an employer or parent), make sure that your self-expression doesn’t impact those who are under you, even if it’s meant as humor . For example, “I don’t like when people come into work late; I’m going to start docking their pay” could be considered offensive by some employees.

Make appropriate use of “I” Statements

Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements when talking about how you feel. For example, “I feel really angry right now” is less likely to provoke a defensive reaction from someone than “You’re being so irrational.”

Resources For Healthy Self-expression

If you’re looking for more information on healthy self-expression, here are some resources to check out:

“The Dance of Anger: A Woman’s Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships” by Harriet Lerner

“The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity ” by Julia Cameron

“Counselor, The (2013)”

“The King’s Speech (2010) ”

“Breaking Bad Seasons #01-04; 05; 06; 07 [BluRay]” by Vince Gilligan

Organizations:

The Center for Nonviolent Communication (CNVC) – an organization dedicated to teaching people how to communicate in ways that foster cooperation and healthy relationships. You can learn more about the CNVC on their website.

NOTE : These resources on healthy self-expression can help you feel more supported and understood. They might also help you process your thoughts and feelings.

Professionals’ View and Tips On Healthy Self-expression

Several professionals have written about healthy self-expression, here are a few tips from them:

“Express yourself carefully and constructively, without hurting others. Don’t use your freedom of speech to criticize or condemn others.”

-Ayaan Hirsi Ali (Author)

“Take risks and dare to fail! For me, failure has been the biggest source of learning and growing as an artist. It doesn’t matter if you make a mistake, what matters is how we respond to the mistakes and problems that pop up in our lives.”

-Cindy Chupack (TV Writer & Producer)

“I think it’s important for all of us to express ourselves honestly with others. It doesn’t mean telling them everything; there are many things we keep private. But it does mean sharing what we’re feeling, thinking, and dreaming about as openly as possible.”

-Shane Koyczan (Poet)

“Find the courage to be imperfect. It is through our cracks and vulnerabilities that we connect with others and create meaningful relationships.”

-Brene Brown (Researcher & Author)

“Your voice matters. It’s what makes you unique and it has the power to change the world.”

-Malala Yousafzai (Activist & Nobel Laureate)

Self-expression is an essential part of what it means to be human. There is no right or wrong way to express yourself, as long as it’s healthy. So go ahead and get creative when expressing yourself! It can be helpful for both mental health and self-understanding in general.

It’s how we connect with ourselves and each other, which is why it’s so important that we do the best job possible expressing our authentic selves. Just be sure to take care of yourself and not cross the line into offensive territory.

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Communicate More Effectively

Learn communication skills: express yourself.

• Learn to express yourself in a way that helps you get what you want.
• Learn to avoid common problems with verbal communication in professional settings.
• Learn to use non-verbal communication to help convey your message. 
• Learn to avoid common problems with non-verbal communication.
• Learn to bring attention to your needs.
• Learn to manage your professional image.

In communication, the words you choose to convey your message are important, and equally important is the accompanying body language, tone of voice, rate of speech, etc. There is no perfect way to express yourself. Often it comes down to choosing which option will best help you meet your goals.

The key to achieving your communication goals is recognizing how to use verbal and non-verbal messages to best bring attention to your needs. What you choose to say, how you choose to say it, and the way you carry yourself in a conversation can strongly influence the outcome of your interaction. 

However, saying nothing, walking away, or avoiding a direct conversation can also influence the outcome of your interactions because avoidance, inaction, and failing to communicate a message are still forms of expression. 

This module will help you to bring attention to your needs and manage the nonverbal issues that may influence how your communication is received.

By this time in your life, you have likely fallen into a pattern of expressing yourself that seems natural and doesn’t require a great deal of planning or forethought. Often you may express yourself to share your views with others, ask for something, tell someone what to do or what you expect from them, or to clarify something.

As you can see, the decision to express yourself can be a challenging one, especially when you’re faced with the possibility of getting an unwanted reaction. However, oftentimes the response we most dread is not as bad as we think it might be. 

We may not want to be turned down, judged, or rejected, but the long-term costs of not asking for what we want may be greater such as not finishing a graduate program, earning a lower salary, being given fewer opportunities and resources, or in some cases, even inviting the very response we attempted to avoid in the first place.  One hypothesis used to explain this phenomenon is that women are socialized to be humble, gentle, considerate, sensitive, and accommodating and, in turn, these qualities may interfere with the decisions required to make demands and express needs or concerns directly (Kugler, Reif, Kaschner, & Brodbeck, 2018)

10 Common Fears about Expressing Yourself

If I share, others will …

• Stop liking me.
• Criticize me.
• Disagree with me.
• Discredit my ideas or me.
• Argue with me.
• Won’t trust me.
• Think I’m incompetent.

While each one of these outcomes has the potential to occur if you do express yourself, they can also occur if you do not express yourself. In fact, we may be more likely to invite the types of situations mentioned above by not acting because others are left to their own assumptions about us, rather than hearing the facts of how we really think or feel. 

Being explicit about your thoughts, reactions, feelings, opinions, and ideas can give you credibility, respect, and clearer boundaries. At a minimum, it will leave less room for others to fill in the blanks with their own assumptions.

In order to complete a group research project by the deadline, your team divided the work equally according to team members’ strengths. You are the first to finish your task so your teammates ask you to gather everyone’s information and create a PowerPoint file for the presentation. 

They claim to be really busy and say that they don’t have enough time to get it done before it’s due next week. Normally, you would be happy to help the team out with this extra task, but you also have a number of other tasks pending that you worry may not be completed if you create the presentation file.

How can you respond in a way that expresses your needs?

• A. Agree to help them out this time, but state that you want them to help more on the next project.
• B. Explain that you have too much on your plate this week and suggest that Bobby do it instead because he had the shortest section.
• C. Agree to do it but mention all the tasks you’re juggling too so that at least they really appreciate how much you’re doing for the team.
• D. State that you have other stuff you’re working on and that everyone needs to make their own slides or work together as a group to create the PowerPoint presentation

While each of these possible choices has strengths and weaknesses, “d” is the most likely to protect your time because it expresses your situation directly while bringing attention to your own needs. Agreeing to take on the extra responsibility in the present with the hope that they will follow-through in the future (answer option “a”) may win you some friends in the moment, there is no guarantee that they will reciprocate in the future—and besides, it could set a bad precedent. Similarly, expecting others to appreciate your extra work (answer option “c”) can be problematic because there is no way to ensure that others will value the extra time you put in. Trying to pass the task to another member of the team is also an ineffective solution (answer option “b”) because it has the same essential problem: the work would be unevenly distributed. Thus, the best solution in this scenario is to suggest a fair and equal sharing of responsibility so no one person is expected to do all of the work.

The first things people often notice during communication interactions are non-verbal messages. However, we are often unaware of the nonverbal messages we send to others. 

Facial expressions, touch, movement, as well as voice tone, rate, and pitch, or even the physical distance between you and another person are each important parts of non-verbal communication. Most of us may be unaware initially of why we view conversation partners a certain way because our brains are programmed to automatically calculate and decipher non-verbal cues without thought. 

Becoming aware of your own non-verbal tendencies and how they may come across is therefore an important part of communicating with others. Your non-verbal messages may be saying something you didn’t intend to convey. 

Table 2 depicts various aspects of non-verbal communication that may create confusion or become problematic along with suggestions for alternative behaviors.

Cultural implications in nonverbal communication

The meaning of various nonverbal cues can become complicated when other cultures have different norms and/or interpretations from yours about expressions and behaviors. Direct eye contact, for example, is highly valued and emphasized in Western culture; it is viewed as portraying confidence, honesty, genuineness, and respect. 

However, in some Eastern cultures direct eye contact may be viewed as portraying arrogance, flirtatiousness, disrespect and/or inviting confrontation. This is not to suggest that one should automatically avoid eye contact with people from Eastern cultures, but rather it speaks to the nuances and variations of nonverbal communication across cultures. Being aware that different cultures view the same nonverbal expression differently can help you express yourself in ways that are culturally appropriate and valued by the other person.

Given the multitude of nuanced differences in nonverbal communication across cultures, the best way to learn about these meanings may be to observe objectively the person with whom you are communicating and consider matching their style of nonverbal behavior. For example, you may try speaking in a softer tone of voice with someone who is soft-spoken or attempt to mirror similar, although not exact, eye contact patterns used by the other person in the conversation. If it’s appropriate and if you feel you know them well enough, it also makes sense to simply ask what they prefer. 

Most people think of verbal communication as the main channel of communication. However, words can be laden with unintended connotations, implications, innuendo, or double meanings. 

Your choice of words can convey data about the content of your message as well as information about you as a person. The  impression you make is tied strongly to the ways in which you employ verbal communication. 

For example, using overly technical and formal language in more casual settings may give others the impression that you are arrogant, cold, pedantic, or unapproachable. At the same time, using overly informal language in professional settings may make you appear unprofessional, incompetent, inappropriate or even crude. 

Table 3 illustrates common problems with verbal communication and suggestions for alternative approaches.

Gender implications in verbal communication

Research shows that women second-guess themselves more than men and doubt whether what they have to say is of value. This same research also shows that society perpetuates this problem by holding women to higher standards than men and giving them less reward for their work (Williams & Phillips, 2016). 

Additionally, women tend to externalize success by attributing to an external cause and internalize failure by attributing to an internal cause (LaCosse, et al 2016). Portraying a lack of confidence can weaken your credibility in many situations. 

However, showing too much confidence in certain situations may be perceived as arrogant and can jeopardize your relationships. Some women tend to err on the side of expressing less confidence to avoid being labeled as bossy, domineering, or aggressive  (Kray & Kennedy, 2017) [see Gender ].

Observing yourself and trying out new styles of expression can help you find balance. Without exploring what fits for you, how can you find the appropriate line between arrogance and confidence, or when it’s right to discuss your accomplishments versus remaining silent? 

One way is to ask for feedback from others about how you come across, then use this information to help guide future behavior. Another option may be to try something different from what you usually do. 

For example, if you avoid verbalizing what you have accomplished, practice mentioning it a bit more often around others gradually and pay attention to how you feel when you do and what effect it has on others’ impression of you.

Four Tips for Expressing Yourself Verbally

• Use “I” statements to explain your experience subjectively and to keep the focus on your own thoughts and feelings. “I feel uncomfortable agreeing to extra hours when my other obligations might suffer” is very different from “You are being unfair by asking me to work longer hours without any regard for my other obligations.”
• Discuss your needs: others will appreciate knowing what you need from them rather than having to guess.
• Focus on what can be done to improve a situation rather than just focusing on problems.
• Be confident and believe in the importance of what you have to say, even when others don’t.

Cultural implications in verbal communication

Different cultures may have varied expectations for women’s communication styles. Choosing to fulfill these expectations comes with both potential costs and benefits. For example, women (particularly women from some cultures). 

Aligning your behavior with the expectations others place on you may help to keep the peace but could interfere with your long-term life and job satisfaction and self-respect. It could also further limit upward mobility since women have the predicament of balancing being womanly enough with not being perceived as too feminine or too aggressive to get ahead. 

Ultimately, these choices lead to the development of our professional image. Regardless of what you have decided in the past, at any point you can choose to make new choices for your future.

Have you ever seen someone who is so mad that they started laughing or so happy that they started crying? In those instances you may have felt confused and unsure about how to respond. This is because our brains are trained to automatically interpret both verbal and nonverbal cues simultaneously. Conflicting information can oftentimes interfere with a clear interpretation.

When there are inconsistencies between verbal and nonverbal messages, nonverbal cues carry more weight than verbal cues and become the primary basis for how others make meaning of the interaction. 

Table 4 depicts examples of verbal statements paired with both confusing and expected nonverbal responses and how they may be perceived.

Perhaps the biggest mistake that women make in expressing themselves is never asking for what they want in the first place. Society holds strong expectations for women to be pleasant, friendly, non-confrontational, accommodating, and nurturing. 

These expectations operate as early as childhood, and women internalize these expectations as a natural part of their identity. As a result, women may feel uncertain about their worth and reluctant to ask for more than what they currently have. 

Fear of rejection can deter women from making their needs clear in relationships. But remember, the worst that could happen is that you are told no.

Five statements to return the attention to your needs:

• This is really important to me.
• I need this in order to …
• Before I can get to_____, I need ______.
• I would really appreciate it if …
• I would like to discuss this, so perhaps we can find a better time.

Ten tips on asking for what you want (See Planning the Message for more.)

• Empathize with the other person, but don’t assume you know what they think in advance.
• State your need directly, succinctly, and without apology or explanation instead of implying, suggesting, or being vague about what you want.
• Consider offering a compromise that is well thought-out and takes the other person’s needs into account.
• Plan for external factors like time and context. For example, hold off on making requests during crises or crunch times unless necessary.
• Be prepared for potential barriers and how you plan to address them without becoming discouraged.
• Provide specific and concrete examples of what you want when possible.
• Avoid backing out of your requests. If you retreat, you jeopardize your credibility.
• State your needs prior to making any commitments. This increases your power to negotiate.
• Prepare a back-up plan(s) in case your request cannot be met so you have alternative solutions ready.
• Be reasonable and consider the limitations of the other person.

When you’re a woman in a field where you're numerically in the minority it can be difficult to figure out how to portray yourself. Impression management is always important for professional success but takes on a different quality in academia, where we are often more beholden to others in order to achieve our goal (e.g., you can’t graduate without the support of your advisor).

You can’t control what others think of you. Some will view you a certain way regardless of what you do. As a woman, others’ impressions of you are often colored by gender stereotypes and expectations. Taking such gender factors into account poses an additional burden for women in managing impressions.

For the most part, however, your behaviors and how you present yourself play a major role in determining how others perceive you. The way you dress, the people you associate with, the places you go, and aspects of your personal or academic life that you reveal all contribute to the impression you make. 

Some people tend to be extremely guarded and maintain only casual and collegial relationships with those in their professional life. The downside is that such caution often means limiting meaningful relationships to those outside of the work setting and missing the socializing and networking that are important to career success. 

A person with reserved behavior is often misconstrued as being cold, snobbish, or unfriendly. In another example of the double jeopardy for women, however, being perceived as too expressive can work against you as well.

Table 5 addresses some of these domains and ways to protect your professional image. Keep in mind, however, that there are no definitive guidelines in these areas. They very much depend on your immediate environment and your relationships with the people in it.

For more on these topics, see The Impression You Make .

Five ways to deflect questions you don’t want to answer:

• I’m not comfortable talking about that.
• I’d rather not get into it.
• I’m sorry, that’s too personal.
• It’s in the past.
• I don’t think that’s appropriate to discuss here.

Sharing aspects of yourself may help you build relationships or connect with others, but it can also be a source of conflict and negative impressions. The key is to make planned and intentional disclosures so that you are aware of what and with whom you are sharing, and what they plan to do with the information.

Social media and your professional image

Maintaining boundaries about what to reveal and being deliberate about what aspects of yourself you want your colleagues or supervisors to know is a fundamental component of being a professional. Be cautious about your public image since many employers now check social media like Twitter and Facebook when hiring new employees. 

A good ground rule for practice is to treat these social media environments like an extension of your work persona. When in doubt, ask yourself “How do I want to be seen?” and “How might this come across?” These questions can help increase your awareness and project the persona that will be most respected by others. 

How you express yourself is a function of both your verbal and nonverbal messages. When verbal and nonverbal messages in a communication interaction conflict with one another, it introduces confusion that may undermine the message you are trying to convey. Expressing yourself to bring attention to your needs may be one of the more difficult forms of expression, so be mindful of the messages you send.

• Pay attention to the words you are using when expressing yourself and be mindful of the alternative meanings they may contain.
• Take note of your nonverbal behaviors. Do they conflict with your verbal message? Could they be perceived as communicating something unintended? Practice aligning them with your verbal message(s) and take measures to eliminate behaviors that create confusion or portray the wrong impression.
• Remember to consider the impression you’ll be projecting as you decide how to express yourself.

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An Arizona State University project, supported by the National Science Foundation under grants 0634519, 0910384 and 1761278

Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation. © 2021  Career WISE. All rights reserved. Privacy | Legal

More ways to use Meta AI now available for more people

Over the last six months, WhatsApp has supported limited testing for one-on-one and group chats with Meta AI as well as AI sticker creation. We are hard at work expanding the ability for more people to explore all that Meta AI has to offer, from right within WhatsApp. Today, Meta AI received numerous upgrades that we will be introducing gradually, including availability in a dozen countries.

• More Places: Meta AI is currently available in English in the U.S., and we’re now making it available in English in more than a dozen new countries, including Australia, Canada, Ghana, Jamaica, Malawi, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe - with more to come.
• Search or Ask Meta AI: You can now ask Meta AI a question right from the search feature at top of your chats. Just start typing and Meta AI will provide suggestions for you to choose or you can keep typing to ask a question in full. Answers about sports, entertainment, and current events are provided by leading search providers.
• Images and Video in a flash: You can now imagine an image and have it appear in an instant. Every few letters will help reveal a new image in real time and even provide a video of creation you can share. This technology relies on the very latest image models from Meta AI released today.

In the coming months, we expect to continue to enhance the performance of Meta AI even more and bring new creative capabilities to WhatsApp. While there is much to be excited about, we know that generative AI won’t always be perfect. We’re eager to hear people’s feedback about how it’s working for you. Tag us on Threads to share interesting images or ways you’re using Meta AI on WhatsApp. We would love to hear from you as we continue down this journey together.

April 18, 2024

Modi’s speech in Rajasthan toxic & deplorable, says Stalin

CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his “Congress will give your wealth to those with more children,” jibe, by terming it as a “toxic speech” that was “vile and deplorable”.

The chief minister was responding to Modi’s speech in an election rally in Rajasthan where he accused that the Congress, if elected, would distribute people’s wealth to “infiltrators” and “those with more children,” in an apparent reference to people belonging to Muslim community.

In a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he said Modi is afraid of public anger against his failure and is hence attempting to whip up religious sentiments through hate speech to avoid what seems to be an imminent defeat. “Hate and discrimination are the real guarantees of Modi,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s toxic speech is vile and highly deplorable. Fearing public anger against his failures, Modi has attempted to whip up religious sentiments and resorted to hate speech to avoid what seems to be an imminent defeat. Hate and discrimination are the real… https://t.co/MA9OeaVYIi pic.twitter.com/SmM9yHmryT — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) April 22, 2024

He blamed the Election Commission of India for turning a blind eye to Modi’s “blatant hate speech”. “The ECI has shamelessly abandoned even a semblance of neutrality,” he said.

Stalin said the socio-economic caste census promised by the INDIA bloc is a remedy long overdue to create an egalitarian society. “It is sad that the prime minister is twisting it and depriving socially disadvantaged communities of their due share in education, jobs, and seats of power,” he said.

He cautioned the leaders of the INDIA bloc to be wary of the BJP’s “devious diversionary tactics”. “We must firm up our commitment to exposing the miserable failures of Modi,” he said, tagging all INDIA bloc leaders in his post.

‘ECI turning blind eye’

Stalin blamed the ECI for turning a blind eye to Modi’s “blatant hate speech”. “The ECI has shamelessly abandoned even a semblance of neutrality,” he said. “It is sad that the PM is twisting it and depriving socially disadvantaged communities of their due share in education, jobs, and seats of power,” he said

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How to Be Expressive

Last Updated: May 21, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Maureen Taylor . Maureen Taylor is the CEO and Founder of SNP Communications, a leadership communications company based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been helping leaders, founders, and innovators in all sectors hone their messaging and delivery for almost 30 years, and has worked with leaders and teams at Google, Facebook, Airbnb, SAP, Salesforce, and Spotify. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 74,012 times.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, most of our communication with other people has less to do with words, and more to do with our body language and tone. [1] X Research source Many people struggle to express their feelings and emotions clearly. But if you want to know how to be more expressive, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting more in touch with the way you feel, and communicating those emotions to others.

Communicating with More Non-Verbal Expression

• Don’t make them too big! Your hand gestures should be kept "inside the box". This means keeping your hands inside the area of the top of your chest and the bottom of your waist. Outside of that, and they will become distracting. [4] X Research source
• Make your hand gestures smooth. When you use your hands to add expression, it should appear as natural as possible. You want to avoid looking like a robot. [5] X Research source
• The best way to make sure they look fluid and natural is to practice in front of the mirror.
• If you give a speech, you could also film yourself to see what gestures you tend to use often.

• Arching an eyebrow can convey that you are surprised or skeptical about something.
• Frown when you disapprove or are concerned about something.
• Grimace when you are worried, afraid, or in pain.
• Most importantly, smile! If you are happy about something, pleased with an outcome, or simply happy to be in someone's company, you should smile to express this emotion. Nearly everyone enjoys a nice smile.

• If you want to appear more confident, assume a “power pose”. [7] X Research source This means standing with your feet apart and your chin slightly elevated (not pointed in the air). If you are sitting in a chair, you might lean back and put your hands behind your head. This will not only make you look more confident, but it may also help you feel more confident. [8] X Research source
• If you want to demonstrate agreement, mirror the expressions and postures of the person you are talking with. [9] X Research source This doesn’t mean mimicking them completely, but rather noticing the general expressions and body language, and letting yourself slip into a similar posture.
• To have an open friendly posture, make sure your arms are not crossed, but relaxed at your sides with your palms open (i.e. not balled into fists). If you are sitting, uncross your legs, and keep them relaxed. Point your body in the direction of the person you are talking to. [10] X Research source

Using Your Voice More Expressively

• When you are telling a story you can begin quietly and raise the volume as you reach the climax of the story.

• If you want to make a positive statement, or agree with an idea, ending a statement on a slightly lower pitch is a good idea. If you want to create doubt in your listener, end in a slightly higher pitch.
• If you want to sound authoritative, you should maintain a slightly lower pitch. [11] X Research source

• Don’t pause for too long! A few seconds should be sufficient.

• You can do this by practicing speeches by yourself, in front of a mirror.
• You could also do this in a public speaking class, or with a trusted friend or teacher. However you do it, the only way to get better is to keep trying!

Expressing Yourself Through Other Mediums

• Choose an instrument that you feel will allow you to express yourself accurately. This simply means that you should choose an instrument that excites you. Many choose the guitar, but if the clarinet or oboe feels right for you, then try that.

• You can keep your journal private, or you can share it with others if you wish.
• You can also keep your journal on paper or in a document on your computer.
• Try writing down the things that happened on any given day, and writing down how these events made you feel.
• In your journal you can write letters to people you don’t get to see anymore, or write letters to say things you are afraid to say. Maybe you will send them, maybe you won’t.
• Write down dreams and ideas. Think of things you’d like to accomplish in your life and write those down.

• If you want to, you can do this at karaoke, or open mic nights, or you can just do it in the privacy of your own home or bedroom. The important part is not who hears it, but that you have found a way that helps you express yourself.

Expert Q&A

• Practice, practice, practice! Being expressive does not come easily to very many people. The more you put yourself into situations where you can practice, the easier it will get. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

• It is likely that while you are practicing and putting yourself into new situations, you will stumble and say the wrong thing or make the wrong hand gesture. You might even accidentally offend someone. Take these as learning experiences, rather than as failures. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 3

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• ↑ http://www.doctornerdlove.com/2013/04/power-expressiveness/
• ↑ http://www.scienceofpeople.com/2015/08/how-to-speak-with-your-hands/
• ↑ http://www.amanet.org/training/articles/10-Powerful-Body-Language-Tips.aspx
• ↑ http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/open_body.htm
• ↑ http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/pause-speech/
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/naked-truth/201410/music-is-what-feelings-sound
• ↑ https://montrealtherapy.com/33-ways-to-use-your-journal-for-self-discovery-and-self-expression/

About This Article

To be expressive, use hand gestures to emphasize what you’re saying when you're speaking to others. You could also try varying the volume and pitch of your voice so that it doesn't sound monotone. Additionally, try to include pauses when you speak to create drama and make you appear more confident. If you want to express yourself to others non-verbally, stand with your feet apart and your chin slightly elevated to indicate confidence with your body language. For tips on how to express emotion using your face, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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President Biden to deliver speech on abortion in Florida on Tuesday

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - President Joe Biden is making a campaign stop in Tampa on Tuesday and is expected to deliver a speech focused on reproductive rights.

The president’s campaign says he give remarks on stakes of this election for reproductive freedom across the country.

His speech will come just about one week before Florida’s new abortion six-week ban is set to take effect on May 1.

Former President Donald Trump has won the state twice and is leading in the polls there but the Biden campaign is hoping to have a shot in Florida.

The Biden administration also made a significant announcement about reproductive health care privacy just before his Florida trip.

On Monday in Washington, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced a new rule that will prohibit doctors, health insurance companies and others from providing health information to law enforcement for the purposes of investigation. The rule is meant to protect abortion seekers who travel out of state and health care providers from prosecution.

“No one should have to live in fear that their conversations with their doctor or that their medical claims data might be used to target or track them for seeking lawful reproductive health care,” said Melanie Fontes Rainer, Director of the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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