Speak Up and Succeed Day

Speak Up and Succeed Day is observed on the fourth Tuesday in January. In 2026, it falls on January 27. This day focuses on the power of effective communication and the role of public speaking in achieving professional and personal goals. It serves as a reminder that voicing ideas clearly and confidently is a skill that can be developed to open doors and create new opportunities.

History of Speak Up and Succeed Day

This day was established by Mary-Ellen Drummond, an award-winning speaker, author, and communications consultant. She noticed that many talented individuals were held back in their careers and personal lives because they lacked the confidence to share their insights or speak in front of groups. Drummond created the day to highlight the direct connection between self-expression and the attainment of success.

The holiday draws on a long tradition of rhetoric that dates back to ancient civilizations where public speaking was a requirement for civic participation. In modern contexts, the day has evolved to address the specific challenges of the workplace, such as the fear of judgment during meetings or presentations. By dedicating a specific day to this cause, the founder aimed to provide a recurring nudge for people to face their fears and improve their vocal presence.

Why is Speak Up and Succeed Day important?

Clear communication is the foundation of leadership and career advancement. When individuals are willing to speak up, they contribute to a more transparent environment where innovation can flourish. Expressing a unique perspective or a creative solution helps a person stand out among peers, ensuring their hard work and intellect are recognized by decision-makers and colleagues alike.

Beyond professional growth, the ability to speak up is vital for personal advocacy and community involvement. It allows people to set boundaries, ask for what they need, and support others who may not yet have found their own voice. Overcoming the common fear of public speaking builds general self-confidence, which often translates into better performance in various aspects of life, from social interactions to formal negotiations.

• Effective speaking helps turn abstract ideas into actionable projects.
• Advocating for yourself ensures your professional value is accurately perceived.
• Open dialogue reduces misunderstandings and improves team efficiency.
• Public speaking skills are highly sought after by employers in every industry.
• Sharing your voice encourages others to share theirs, creating a culture of trust.

How to Celebrate Speak Up and Succeed Day

A practical way to celebrate is by seeking out a low-stakes environment to practice speaking. This could involve joining a local Toastmasters club or offering to lead a short update during a team meeting. Preparation is the best remedy for anxiety, so taking time to organize thoughts into a clear beginning, middle, and end can make the experience feel much more manageable and successful.

For those in leadership roles, this day is an opportunity to actively listen and create space for others to contribute. Asking open-ended questions during discussions invites quieter team members to participate without feeling pressured. Observing the day can also mean investing in a public speaking book or workshop to learn specific techniques, such as proper pacing, eye contact, and the use of purposeful pauses.

• Volunteer to present a topic you are passionate about at work.
• Record yourself speaking for three minutes and review it for clarity.
• Mentor a colleague who struggles with sharing their ideas in groups.
• Watch a professional speech online and take notes on their delivery style.
• Write down three talking points before your next conference call to stay focused.

Speak Up and Succeed Day Dates Table