When Speaking Up Feels Too Big

 I’ve been sitting with something for a few days now, unsure whether to even put it into words. It’s one of those situations where you start questioning your place — your role on the team, whether your thoughts carry any weight — especially when they go against a decision that’s already in motion.

A few days ago, I saw a new marketing campaign at work. It ties our product to a recent military operation — one that’s still fresh, still sensitive. The idea is no longer just an idea; the deal is done, the digital posters are ready, and I’ve been asked to send them out through our official WhatsApp channel.

My gut reaction? Should we really be doing this?

It felt like we were trying to ride the emotional wave of something serious — and not in a thoughtful or respectful way. More like capitalizing on emotion than honoring it.

But here’s the thing: I’m not in marketing. I’m a web developer. I wasn’t part of the brainstorming, and my role is just to support the rollout. Technically, it’s not my lane.

And yet, I can’t shake the discomfort.

I haven’t said anything. The idea came from the top. And around here, feedback tends to be a formality — a checkbox, not a conversation. People nod and move on, maybe because it’s safer that way. Maybe because experience has taught them their voices won’t change anything.

Still, the question lingers: If something doesn’t sit right, and you stay silent, what does that make you?

I don’t have a clean resolution. I’m still deciding whether to speak up or stay quiet. But I’m sharing this because I know I’m not the only one who’s felt this way — noticing something that feels off, and not knowing what to do with that awareness.

Sometimes, even naming the discomfort is a step. It means you're still paying attention. And maybe, that’s where change begins.