Embrace the Talker: Why Owning Our Voice Matters

I’ve always been a talker. A go…around… the…. block…. to get to the store…. kind of talker.

While growing up and embracing this part of me, I learned quickly that my style, which is story-driven, layered, full of feeling and backstory; sometimes made people feel a bit.. restless. I could see it in their eyes: the silent plea to get to the point. But here’s the thing: My “point” is never just a point. It’s a journey. And that journey is part of who I am.

For many people like me, communication isn’t rushed. We talk in circles, we weave emotion and context into our words, we value warmth and connection over brevity. I also learned that for many others, communication often leans toward efficiency. Say what you need to say, say it fast, and say it once. For me, that difference in style can create challenges. It is true! I used to feel the pressure to “fix” my style, to be more direct, to say less, and in a way, to be less.

So, here is my point. I’d like to offer a different perspective. Don’t hide it. Instead, embrace it until it shines.

Because when I stopped editing myself to fit a mold, and started leaning into my natural way of expressing, something shifted. I spoke with more confidence. My energy became authentic. I didn’t have to “fake” anything, my authenticity did the work. My passion came through because I wasn’t hiding it behind a script, to try to keep it short.

As educators, this shift isn’t just personal. It’s powerful for our students, too. When we let them talk, really talk, we unlock more than just language skills. We open doors to identity, to confidence, and to connection. When we create space for different oral language activities, we honor who they are. And when we help them engage with one another, in their own voices, we’re not just teaching speaking, we’re teaching belonging.

Speaking in a language classroom isn’t just about Oracy. Although important, it’s about expression. It’s about bringing all of who you are to the table. It’s about deepening understanding, forming relationships, and building bridges across languages, cultures, and communities.

So yes, I’m a talker.

I might take the long way around sometimes. Most of the time….

But I’ll take you with me.

And when we arrive, you’ll know we got there together.

Let’s teach our students, and ourselves, that talking isn’t just allowed.

It’s essential.