Self esteem

Dear Delyara, I sat in a meeting today where someone tried to take credit for an idea I had developed. In the past, I would have stayed quiet and let them have it just to avoid conflict. But today, I calmly and professionally spoke up and reclaimed my work. My heart was thumping against my ribs, but I stood my ground. The look of respect on my boss's face was great, but the feeling of respect I had for myself was even better. I am finally learning that my voice has value and that I don't have to shrink so others can feel big. I am standing tall tonight.