Taking Pride in Stuttering: Finding Acceptance at Your Own Pace

Let’s get real: being proud of something you were taught your entire life to hide is freaking hard.

For many who stutter, the journey to self-acceptance is long and not always linear. You may have spent years trying to be fluent. You may still feel a pit in your stomach when it’s time to speak. You may not be sure how to feel about your stutter at all.

We’re here to tell you that that’s okay. You don’t need to be “there” yet. But you don’t need to feel 100% proud to start treating yourself with kindness.

One way to start showing yourself kindness is through affirmations. They can help reframe negative thoughts and remind you that pride doesn't have to be loud or perfect; it can begin with small, intentional shifts.

Step 1: Start with Permission

You’re allowed to exist in the in-between. You can feel frustrated and curious. You can wish it were easier and know your voice is worthy. You can want change while also practicing compassion for where you are right now.

“I really began to accept my stutter during my sophomore year when I discovered that my great-grandfather also has a stutter. He is somebody I have looked up to my whole life, and when I found out he had a stutter too, it made me feel less alone. Originally, I felt that acceptance meant not being made fun of, but after being with friends and family, it really means having people who ask how to advocate and listen to me regardless of my stutter.” — Bridger Jones

“I started accepting my stutter when I was around 19. My definition of acceptance has changed over time. There are good and bad days; it serves as a reminder that growth is not linear. Also, I've learned to accept that my stutter does not define me; it simply is a piece of the person I am.” — Gloria Urrego

Affirmation:

“I am allowed to take my time.”

Step 2: Find Stories That Reflect You

Representation changes everything.

Hearing from people who stutter—and actually own it—can be incredibly inspiring and healing. Not because they’re fluent or polished, but because they speak up with pride.

“I remember the first time I ever heard somebody stutter was in a movie, and it was faked. Though I knew it was fake, it made me feel less alone, and I felt I could relate to it. At first, I felt that stuttering was represented with a sense of humor and embarrassment and something that the film industry used for comedic relief. Now I feel that it has become something to spread awareness about and embrace.” — Bridger Jones

Role models to explore

If you're looking for inspiration, explore the incredible individuals who serve on NSA Committees or are featured in our Career Success Profile spotlights. Their stories and leadership reflect the strength and diversity of our community.

Affirmation:

“There are people like me and they are thriving.”

Step 3: Speak (or Don’t) On Your Own Terms

Pride doesn’t always mean speaking loudly. Sometimes it means texting when you want to. Or disclosing your stutter before a Zoom call. Or pausing mid-sentence without rushing.

“I no longer bite my tongue out of fear that I might stutter. Instead when I have something to say, I say it. I speak without fear and with pride. One decision I have made is not to fear being made fun of, but not to let it hold me back. I may not communicate the same way as others, but that does not mean what I am saying is any less important. When it comes to stuttering, I feel I am successful by stuttering proudly, and educating when able to.” — Bridger Jones

“Speaking with the mindset that ‘my voice is worth waiting for.’ I stutter proudly and speak my mind!” — Gloria Urrego

You get to define what communication success looks like for you.

Affirmation:

“Every time I choose how I communicate, I honor myself.”

Step 4: Connect with People Who Get It

There’s something powerful about being in a space (online or in person) where no one blinks when you stutter.

“I think the first time I ever experienced stuttering in a space where it was accepted was with a video of the NSA! Being around others who stutter makes me feel accepted and like I am not alone!” — Bridger Jones

“Being around others who stutter] makes me feel at home. I know I'm in a space where I can speak freely, won't be rushed, and stuttering is the majority! My first experience from an NSA event was attending my first conference, Fort Lauderdale, in 2023. Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith held a workshop and had us stand up and say, ‘I stutter and I'm proud.’ We began at a whisper and ended with a ‘scream.’ Hearing myself say that aloud was life-changing.” — Gloria Urrego

That kind of community reminds you that you’re not alone, you don’t need to explain yourself, and your voice matters. We encourage you to check out our NSA Chapters, virtual hangouts, or even follow a few PWS creators on social media.

Affirmation:

“I don’t have to do this alone.”

Step 5: Reroute the Negative Narratives

Start noticing the things you silently tell yourself. Would you say those things to a friend who stutters? If not, what would you say instead?

Begin replacing shame-based thoughts with neutral or kind ones. Not feeding into toxic positivity, but gentleness.

For example:

“I sounded awful.” → “That was hard, but I did it.”
“People think I’m stupid.” → “People may not understand, but that doesn’t reflect my intelligence.”
“I shouldn’t speak up.” → “My voice belongs here.”

Affirmation:

“My stutter is part of me, but it doesn’t define me.”

Pride Isn’t Loud. It’s Steady.

You don’t have to love your stutter every moment to start respecting it. You don’t have to be “there yet” to be worthy of support, visibility, and softness.

Pride grows from small choices, like:

Choosing to show up
Choosing to speak or pause
Choosing to be just a little kinder to yourself today

“I would tell my younger self to embrace my stutter, and to look for those who also stutter. Find a community, and never be ashamed.” — Bridger Jones