SPEAKING UP AT WORK
Because your ‘no’ can inspire others.
Your Voice Matters
One of the hardest places to put this into practice is the workplace. According to the SeekHer Shift Report, less than 1 in 3 of employed women (31.6%) say their current workplace creates a safe space to discuss balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Let’s talk through how we can ensure that the boundaries we set for ourselves are not only respected, but actually sustained — for you and the ones you speak up for.
3 WAYS
to Self-Advocate
Here are a few insights to help you practice saying ‘no’ and successfully support your mental well-being.
01
Stop piecing yourself apart.
There is only one you - not a “work” version of you nor a separate, disconnected “home” you. Advocate for a work environment that doesn’t ask you to fragment yourself and “not bring your home life to work.” Because you deserve to be your whole and most authentic self.
02
Be clear about your capacity.
An overwhelming 84% of women minimize or hide their own emotional experiences because they don’t want to burden others. This is a fast road to burnout. Stop holding in your emotions and struggles with shame. Openly asking for help when you’re overburdened at work (or in other areas of your life) is a good thing.
03
Don’t rush into saying ‘yes’.
As much as we’re hyping all of this up, we know that it’s not easy. There will be people who are not okay with you pushing back or saying no. They may even pressure you to reconsider your stance. You have all the permission to take a pause and reevaluate what you need to make the situation work for you.
3 WAYS
to Advocate For Others
Whether you’re in a position of authority or motivated to create change in your environment, here are a few ways to start advocating for the women in your workplace.
01
Give Her Space.
70.8% of women say having a welcoming, judgment-free space will motivate them to speak up more at work. It’s clear that when workplaces celebrate our vast range of diverse, valuable experiences and perspectives, we have the potential to enrich others while elevating the work we’re all doing towards a common goal.
02
Give Her Freedom.
Nearly half (49.5%) of women say their productivity and output dictate whether they deserve time for self-care — which explains why it’s so hard for women to say ‘no’ without massive guilt. Give her freedom by normalizing ‘no’ as a viable option, which opens up the doors of communication for everyone’s needs.
03
Give Her Time.
2 in 5 women (41.9%) fear taking personal time away from work for fear of judgment from their peers or facing career penalties. Offering flexible hours, remote work, and encouraging mental health days can go a long way to help women advocate for their own needs while staying motivated in their work.
Do you need urgent help & someone to talk to?
Call National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988
Text Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
