I’ve had the privilege of helping many clients discover the full power of their voice - not just in the literal sense but in how they show up in the world.
For some, finding that resonant, impactful voice comes naturally. But for many others, something is holding them back from fully embracing and enjoying their presence in the room.
When I work with clients who struggle to speak up or hesitate to claim space with their voice, one of the first questions I ask is: "What’s holding you back?" because the truth is, you can’t fully grow and develop your voice if there’s something standing in the way.
These are some of the most transformative conversations I have with my clients. It’s in these moments that we start to unwrap the real reasons behind why they might not feel comfortable projecting their voice, taking the lead, or speaking with the confidence and clarity they desire. More often than not, these reasons go beyond technique - they touch on how we see ourselves, how we think others perceive us, and the stories we carry from our past experiences.
Common Blocks to Voice Confidence
There are many factors that can keep someone from speaking up with strength and presence. Here are a few I frequently see in my coaching practice:
Fear of Judgment or Rejection: Many people hesitate to speak with authority because they’re worried about how they’ll be received. Will I come across as too aggressive? Will people take me seriously? These fears can cause us to shrink, softening our voices and diminishing our impact.
Risk Aversion: Speaking up, especially in high-stakes situations, can feel risky. Whether it’s challenging a colleague, voicing a new idea, or standing your ground in a meeting, the fear of being “wrong” or of failing publicly can make you hold back.
Desire to Hide: Some people feel more comfortable in the background, intentionally holding back to avoid being the center of attention. Whether this stems from past experiences or simply personal preference, this desire to “hide” can prevent you from using your voice to its full potential.
Negative Past Experiences: Perhaps you’ve had moments in the past where you were silenced, ignored, or criticized for speaking up. These memories, even if long buried, can create mental blocks that make it difficult to trust your voice again.
Common Blocks to Voice Confidence
Before we can build a strategy to overcome these barriers, the first step is identifying what’s holding you back. This requires deep self-reflection and often involves confronting discomfort. It’s about asking yourself “Why don’t I feel comfortable resonating fully in the room?”
Once we understand the root cause of your hesitation, we can begin to explore strategies that will allow you to free your voice and speak with confidence. These conversations are often challenging, but they’re also incredibly rewarding. As we work through the blocks, clients start to shift how they think about themselves and how they engage with the world around them.
Building a Strategy for Vocal Confidence
There are many factors that can keep someone from speaking up with strength and presence. Here are a few I frequently see in my coaching practice:
Addressing the Fear: Whether it’s fear of judgment, failure, or being “too much,” we work together to reframe these fears. Instead of focusing on potential negative outcomes, we shift attention to the opportunities that come from speaking up.
Gradual Exposure: If someone has been avoiding using their voice, we start by creating low-risk opportunities for them to practice. This might mean rehearsing in private, starting with smaller meetings, or even practicing vocal exercises to build resonance and stamina. They may need family members to encourage them too. We’re building new habits here!
Mindset Shifts: We explore how clients think about themselves and their presence in the room. By challenging self-limiting beliefs and creating new narratives around confidence and authority, clients begin to see themselves in a new light.
Technical Voice Work: Once the mental blocks are addressed, we work on building the vocal skills necessary for full resonance and impact. This includes breath control, posture, articulation, and finding the natural rhythm that allows your voice to land with confidence.
If you’ve been holding yourself back or struggling to resonate in the room, let’s explore together what’s standing in your way—and craft a path toward vocal confidence and clarity.
Book a chemistry call today and start your journey toward a more empowered, resonant voice. Email me at nicki@kennedyhpc.com to get started.
