Self advocacy is one of the most important skills that any person can develop. By becoming your own representative, you’re taking charge of your own narrative. While it may sometimes feel uncomfortable to stand up for yourself or to take a stand on things that directly impact you, those are the times when it is most necessary to make your voice heard. When you’re first starting to practice this skill, try the small steps first–asking your doctor more questions at your next appointment, practicing assertiveness in more of your interactions, or expressing your preference/opinion when you’re given options to pick from in everyday life–like where you want to go to eat, or which movie you want to see.

There’s nothing wrong with expressing your needs and taking more active roles in the things that matter to you. If you don’t ask for what you want or need, you may not get it! Practice makes perfect–as your confidence with this skill grows, you’ll become more comfortable performing your own research, preparing your “asks”, and actively participating in situations where decisions are being made.

Resources:

GLSEN–Quick Guide to Meeting with Decision-Makers (PDF)

HRC–Part of the Team: Holding Conversations About Trans-Inclusive Sports (Chatbot)

KidsHealth–Assertiveness

KidsHealth–Questions You Can Ask Your Doctor

KidsHealth–Asking For Help: Getting Past Obstacles

GoodGoodGood–Types of Activism

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