How hard is it to speak up on your behalf?

I have a great deal of difficulty. I am perfectly capable of speaking up for someone else - help the underdog sort of thing. Yet, when it comes to myself I play the avoidance game or give in entirely.

I was just forced to do stand up for myself however (I am insisting my phone company waive the $15 fee to renew my plan - I am not in a position to pay that). I am absolutely shaking. My voice got high pitched and trembled. I almost cried. I am waiting for them to call back with a response.

On one hand I am shocked and happy I would even try to put my foot down. On the other it was a most unpleasant of experiences I would have preferred to have avoided.

Ugh, I wish it didn't come to this. I am soooooooo scared of repercussions. And all this for a few dollars.