What Becoming A Straight Talker Did For My Character

Photography by Kaye Ford (@fordtography)

Admittedly I used to be a pushover. The “drop everything to help someone else” kind of girl. And I had no problem with it. I was brought up to be a kind and helpful person, so I was. And still am. I kept my bad thoughts and really honest opinions to myself (or my closest girls and Mum) and I was fine with that. But it got to a point back in high school where I realised that I was just too nice. A few people took my kindness way too far and thought that not returning the favour would be more than okay. I realised that the age old idea of “treat others how you wish to be treated” was slyly not happening for me. I thought it was, but really when I looked back in hindsight it wasn’t. 

Of course I continued, and still do, have my moments where I’m way too nice and put myself through situations that I know I don’t deserve. But I’ve made a drastic change. Speaking my mind. Honestly when I made the decision to be a bit more selfish and speak up for myself, I found a new kind of confidence. I could continue to be that sweet, kind girl I always have been but when I need to be a bit more blatant and honest I can be.

I have to thank (also blame) my sarcastic, hilarious mother for this new character of mine: the straight talker. My mum is the ultimate role model if I’m honest. She’s the best person I know and her honesty is so refreshing. Through her attitude to life, I’ve learnt how to be a stronger, confident woman. I’m literally sitting next to her writing this, listening to her talk some utter nonsense and I can’t stop laughing. She has no filter and I think it’s contagious because I’ve started the same thing. 

Outfit: Jacket - Zara (ON SALE) / Tank Top - Pretty Little Thing / Skirt - Custom (similar here and here) / Shoes - Aldo

I’m not afraid to say what I feel anymore because of the experience of keeping those feelings in. When someone crosses me, unnecessarily, then I will say what I feel needs to be said. This can be a good and a bad thing, but if you evaluate your choices right and know when is the right moment for complete honest, then people will value you for it. 

Being a straight talker doesn’t just mean you will be more honest with others, but with yourself. You make more decisions as to what you want out of life and what you deserve. I’ve learnt a lot about myself because I speak up more. Sometimes we need to be a bit selfish, put ourselves first and just be honest. I can say that being a straight talker has made me a more confident person and I definitely suggest it. As long as you don’t take it too far. 

Lots of love, 

Emily xx