Have An Opinion

And don't be afraid to share it.

For a long time, I kept my opinions to myself.

I didn’t want to rock the boat. I didn’t want to upset anyone. I avoided conflict like the plague and prided myself on being easy to get along with. In short—I was a classic people pleaser.

But here’s what I’ve learned: playing it safe might keep the peace, but it won’t build your brand.

Especially if you’re a leader, a founder, or a changemaker—your opinion isn’t just valuable. It’s vital.

In my early years as a designer and business owner, I found myself defaulting to “yes.” Yes, we can do that. Yes, that works. Yes, we’ll make it happen. But when I really started owning my voice (and sharing what I actually thought based on years of experience in branding, design, and entrepreneurship) everything changed.

People started listening more closely.

Clients started getting better results.

And I started getting invited to bigger rooms and on bigger stages.

Here’s the truth: my opinion is what people hire me for. The clarity, insight, and perspective I bring is the most valuable thing I offer. Design is the outcome. Strategy is the framework. But it all starts with a well-honed point of view.

If I simply gave people what they said they wanted, my business would be flat. My work would lack impact. And frankly, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Because the magic happens when I help people see what they didn’t even know they needed.

I’ve built a career—and a brand—on listening deeply, asking the hard questions, and then offering an honest, informed perspective. And not everyone agrees with it. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to please everyone. It’s to serve the right people—and to lead with conviction and kindness.

So here’s my advice:

Have an opinion.

Stand for something.

Say the thing others are thinking but are afraid to say.

Just do it with empathy, respect, and integrity.

Because when you own your voice, you not only shape your brand—you inspire others to do the same.

Want my perspective on your brand—or your next stage? Let’s connect.