Starting Small and Speaking Up

Our voices are powerful and we have a responsibility to use them.

This was the most important lesson that I took away from my attendance at BlogHer 2015 last weekend, which is a blogging conference that I attened in New York City. The weekend was overwhelming – in the best of ways.

From a practical standpoint, one of the best benefits of the conference was learning how to become a better writer. I was fortunate to attend a session about how to edit your own work. I desperately needed this lesson.

But, the biggest impact that the conference had on me had to do with the attendees. I was in awe at the hundreds of writers who had gathered together for the weekend. All I could think about was how much talent and heart was present.

I met other bloggers with whom I communicate online and in blogging groups on a daily basis. There is always something a little surreal about meeting someone in person whose work you have read. It’s like our secrets are already out.

There were a few “famous” bloggers at the conference as well, many of whom have impacted my own experiences as a mother. I met bloggers who have made me laugh and cry through their words. I spoke to writers who have inspired me to be more honest. This community of bloggers has always made me feel less alone.

We were all there to learn, connect and push ourselves. Everyone I met had a story to tell.

While sitting in the keynote with hundreds of talented bloggers, I realized how incredibly powerful we were. The collective voice is formidable. But, even one person can have a huge and lasting impact on others.

Telling our stories can start small. It starts with a book, or an article, or maybe a phrase or simply a word. By sharing a piece of ourselves, we can create real connection and help each other in the most unexpected ways.

All we need to do is speak up. Sometimes one voice makes a huge impact.