Sunday morning I will wake (by choice) at 4:00 a.m., and do something that scares me. Even after several triathlons, the swim and I… we’ve never been friends. At my first triathlon, my daughter asked, “Mommy, why are you going in the muddy water?” Why indeed.
Earlier this week, I gave a presentation to a small group–about 15 people. Just like the triathlon, I had volunteered for this, even applied for a speaking slot. But here’s the thing: I hate public speaking.
Why did I volunteer? Simple. I’ll never get over my fear if I don’t face it head on. And I feel passionately enough about my subject that I want to help people with it. My desire to share what I know overshadows the fear. For triathlons, I need to prove to myself that despite being a proud band geek with no hand-eye coordination, I can be an athlete too.
If you’re afraid of public speaking, chances are–like me–you could use some practice. Yes, you’ll hate it. But you’ll be glad you did it.
Long ago, one of my first bosses required me to attend Toastmasters meetings every Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. I was 22, and did not yet appreciate the possibility and opportunity found in those quiet, early hours. And I was terrified. The thought of talking to groups of people made me break into a cold sweat. But a funny thing happened. I went to those meetings, where you basically practice being put on the spot. I never got completely comfortable with it, but I improved.
I don’t think out loud. Like many writers, I prefer to ponder on the page before sharing my opinion. But to succeed in communications, you have to be reasonably competent at both written and verbal communication. To succeed in business, you have to speak up sometimes. Chances are, if you’re wondering about something during a meeting, others are too. And when they speak up and ask your question, they’ll get the credit for that great idea, or pointing out something the group hadn’t considered. Sound familiar?
So, sign on to do something you’re not comfortable with. You might hate it, but I bet in the end you’ll be glad you finished it.
Oct 02, 2011 @ 06:04:45
Thank you, April. One share’s great company facing fear with positive dialog and resourceful action. (22 quotes at http://www.positivityblog.com).
Oct 02, 2011 @ 09:07:56
Thinking of you this morning while I’m sitting around drinking coffee in my pajamas inside my warm house.
Hope the triathlon goes well for you … We’re anxiously waiting an update!
I would have NEVER guessed that you had a fear/dislike of public speaking. You do a great job, and audiences respond really well to your presentations. You have an open invitation to speak at any of my events!
Oct 02, 2011 @ 09:08:29
*waiting = awaiting
NEED MORE COFFEE!
Oct 02, 2011 @ 12:23:43
I adored this post and I fully, fully agree. As I sit here this morning and reflect upon various experiences that I have had over the past few years, I realize that it all began with something that made me uncomfortable which I am now thankful that I experienced. (All initial terror aside.) I agree with Jesshibb, I would never have guessed it either! You are a true pro.
Oct 02, 2011 @ 16:26:59
Thank you all for your comments and support.
Bradford – I will definitely check out the Positivity Blog.
Jessica – I guess I’ve practiced enough over the years that it doesn’t bother me as much now. Teaching for a couple semesters helped too; they had no choice but to sit there, but that helped me get more used to being in front of a group. (I still get the jitters though.)
Jennifer – Funny how the scary things can turn into greatness, huh?
Oh, and I finished the triathlon this morning. It was unseasonably cold (water temp 64 degrees) and all around drizzly and unpleasant, but I promised myself I would do it, and I did. Now thinking I might nap for a few days.