Facing Fears

"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Tonight I took on the continued challenge of pushing my comfort zone further out. I do quite a bit of public speaking with my job and within faith circles but I agreed to speak tonight at a secular event of sorts--MoMondays. Motivational Mondays is a new and happening event in Winnipeg. I had been to the first two and the MC and founder of Winnipeg MoMondays, Stephanie Staples, asked me to speak at this one. I did not jump at the chance but am so glad that I said yes and stepped past my fears.

The speakers were amazing at this evening's event. I laughed, I held back tears (only because I was next up), and was invigorated by people's ability to lean fully into life with all its joys and sorrows. I did not think about my speech until it was time to get up and onto the stage. As I began my prepared speech, I could hear the quivering in my voice (though a stranger later said I was so calm) but as I went on, I relaxed. This was the first time I spoke without looking at notes. I faced a fear I have long had. The journey from an excruciatingly shy child to public speaker is an upward climb for me but tonight I am proud to say I did it! I looked fear in the face and have gained an experience that will remain with me for future presentations.

Peace,

Suzanne