As a 22-year old fresh out of college I had to give presentations to mostly male, many with military backgrounds, most twice my age, audiences at the Motorola Government Group. My knees were knocking and I thought my heart was going to pound out of my chest. A kind colleague suggested Toastmasters. It was a life saver. The repetitive “thinking on your feet” skill practice helped me with my speaking and in my work for the rest of my career. As I progressed in my career and spoke more and more, I began to love it. Thankfully, I did not succumb to the fear and never find this passion.
What Scares You?
“You must do the thing you think you can not do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
The best way to develop your courage muscle is by doing the thing that scares the crap out of you. When you discover that you did not die then do it again and again. Your courage, strength and resilience will grow each time you do it and maybe you will even find you like it. It took me awhile so don’t give up after the first couple tries. Find the next thing and do it all over again after you conquer the one at the top of your list.
Who or What Inspires You?
I just rented the movie, “Temple Grandin”, about the women of the same name who lives with autism, obtained her doctorate degree and designed humane and effective slaughter houses for cattle. Her story is amazing (and the movie won 7 Emmys). I especially liked how she used a metaphor of “just going through another door” each time she was scared of a new situation. One of my favorite people from history is Victor Frankl and his book, “Man’s Search for Meaning” about his survival in a concentration camp. His story of overcoming fear and hate and then going on to create a new method of psychology is incredible.
Surround yourself with inspirational people, books and movies that encourage you to step out of your comfort zone. Make friends with your fear and watch your courage muscles grow.
What inspirational movies, books or people do you turn to keep yourself focused on playing full out? What fears have you overcome? Please share in a comment.
photo credit: Leonard John Matthews
Love this post! Currently I’m 6 months pregnant and one of the most scary things on this planet to me was having kids. However my husband and I decided that we really wanted to give it a try and at least have one to see what it would be like to create a responsible and contributing member of our society. Daily I am scared out of my mind. I will keep your post in mind! One correction though … I’ve heard of Temple Grandin and her accomplishments but I would correct the statement about “humane and effective” slaughter houses. Effective, perhaps. Killing of a being that desperately wants to live, is never humane no matter what the circumstance.
Thanks for sharing Josephine. I imagine that I would feel just as scared as you with the fear of being responsible for the new life that you are bringing into the world but I do know that you will be a terrific Mother! You are a brave and wonderful woman! Paula