I'm always afraid to ruffle feathers.  I know I duck my head in the sand and avoid whenever possible.  It's both a coping technique and a huge flaw I have to overcome.  I'm currently afraid to speak up for myself because I feel like I am still being tied down in order to keep the peace and bide my time.  It's excruciatingly painful for me to bite my tongue and not just come right out and say "NO" or to ask what my options are.  I'm working on it though.