How To Take Up Space

I’ve lived on this Earth for 26 years, afraid to take up space. And when I say “take up space,” I mean not being afraid to show up in life. Whether that’s demanding respect, not being afraid to ask for a raise, or to speak your mind. Not being afraid to take any risks. Without risks in life, there aren’t any rewards.

Learning to take up space for me, also means learning how to simply say no. When I currently say no to someone, I'm saying yes myself. It’s an amazing feeling. Saying “no” to someone came with the heavy burden of guilt. But I used to ask myself, “Why do I feel so guilty if I wanted to say no?” I should be politely decline a request from someone else without feeling guilty.

Here are the ways I began to take up more space and how you can too.

1. Stop apologizing. Don’t apologize if there’s no need.
2. Set boundaries. Politely demand the respect that you deserve.
3. Take some “me” time. Prioritize some time for yourself. Whether that’s getting lost in a great book, or gently moving your body with a yoga session. I’ve recently started to read a lot more, and love how I can get lost in fictional worlds.
4. Speak up. Speak up for what you believe in. For what you believe what’s right. Don’t silence your voice and listen to naysayers.
5. Don’t be afraid to say no. I’ve learned that you can tell someone no without any other explanation. It’s a great way to not have to explain yourself. Why should you? I no longer do, and I feel like I can finally exhale.

These five ways will allow you to find the strength in your voice. You’ll come to realize that your voice is extremely valid. When I was younger, I didn’t think anyone cared what I had to say. I often felt small, as if I was backed into a corner. These five ways have helped me take my back off the wall and take control. Now you can do the same.