The Power of Finding Your Voice | Sangeetha R | Quality Check Analyst | MediBuddy
In our fast-paced digital world, the ability to effectively communicate and find one’s voice is an invaluable personal and professional asset. It’s a journey of growth, empowerment, and unlocking one’s true potential. My own experiences have taught me the transformative power of speaking up and its profound impact on shaping our trajectories.
Raised in humble circumstances, I initially adopted the “Don’t be seen” mindset shaped by the belief that blending in was the safest path. However, little did I know that letting go of this approach would mark the beginning of a transformative journey that would open doors to valuable experiences and personal growth.
Breaking New Ground Through Education
My father, a labourer with no formal education, recognised the profound significance of learning. Against all odds, he enabled my sisters and me to pursue schooling, making us the first in our family to do so. This was a massive departure from our family’s history, where education was an unattainable luxury.
Overcoming financial constraints and lacking access to personal technology, I completed my 12th grade and enrolled in a Bachelor’s program in Science and Computers. This fulfilled a dream rooted in my family’s hard-working ethos and began a new chapter.
The Transformative Power of Speaking Up
Entering the workforce, I initially struggled with self-doubt and hesitated to voice my opinions, fearing judgement for my inexperience. However, a pivotal moment of contemplation in the cafeteria made me realise the importance of embracing my voice and sharing my insights.
It was then that a wise team leader taught me the value of approaching each day with enthusiasm, treating setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. He encouraged me to express my ideas confidently, demonstrating that true leadership involves more than just following.
These lessons, which even formal education might not have imparted, added tremendous value to my professional growth. Within two years, I progressed from an executive to a team leader and then to a Subject Matter Expert, opening new doors of opportunity.
Embracing Change and Shattering Barriers
Joining MediBuddy amidst the pandemic allowed me to contribute to the community and impact people’s lives. The company’s culture of open communication further empowered me to find my voice and share my perspectives.
In a significant moment, I approached my manager for an opportunity to achieve a personal milestone. This marked the beginning of my first experiences, including venturing into a different city, taking my first flight, meeting new people, and navigating challenges independently. These achievements might seem ordinary to some, but for me, they shattered long-standing mental barriers, surprising both myself and my family.
The Art of Effective Communication
Through my journey, I’ve learned that every individual possesses the power to shape the future of work by voicing their insights, regardless of experience. When we withhold our ideas and perspectives, we and our organisations miss valuable opportunities for growth, improvement, and innovation.
Effective communication is an art that requires persistence, contribution, and strategic negotiation. It involves repeatedly engaging in discussions, offering practical solutions backed by research, choosing the right platform and timing to present ideas, and humbly seeking support to create a lasting impact.
Paying It Forward
My trajectory shifted when I embraced effective communication, and now my goal is to give back by working with NGOs dedicated to education, career guidance, and the power of effective communication. I aspire to pay forward the empathy and kindness that played a pivotal role in my journey, empowering others to find their voice and unlock their true potential.
In a world that often prioritises conformity, the courage to speak up and challenge the status quo is a catalyst for innovation and progress. It’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and leaving a lasting impact on those around us. As I continue to navigate this path, I’m excited to see where embracing my voice will lead, and I encourage others to embark on their transformative journeys of finding and harnessing the power of their voices.