*Vulnerable Post* One of my biggest fears in LIFE is public speaking. I know it sounds silly right? I get so nervous that sometimes I black out, forget my words and get so worried of others judging me on the way I present. To make matters worse, my body will break out in sweats and sometimes physically get sick the week leading up to the event. It’s safe to say, I do not have a natural talent for public speaking.
A month ago, the Director of Campus Ministry at my high school (St Ursula) asked me to speak to the entire school regarding the importance of service and how God is working in my life. A topic I absolute love. Of course I wanted to say YES right away but my fear of public speaking was telling me NO WAY.
I called my dad that evening and this was his response:
When my dad reminded me that this was an opportunity to be a witness for Christ, I knew I had to do it.
On Tuesday, April 30th, I spoke to the girls at SUA and faced my fear head on! No – things did not go perfectly and yes, I forgot some of my remarks. I’m only human… 🙂
Aside from that…I got to share my story and shed some light. I had the opportunity to reminisce on high school memories, reconnect with teachers, former classmates and meet some amazing women who are doing great things in the Toledo community including serving the homeless, at risk youth, inmates, people living with HIV, survivors of human trafficking, people living in poverty and so much more. That day, I left with more knowledge, motivation and inspiration to do more good.
I think one of the best things we can do for ourselves is acknowledge our fears and work on them together. I wanted to share 3 tips that helped me say YES and face my fear earlier this week.
Here’s my routine to help you Faith Your Fears:
MINDSET — first things, first! Put yourself in the right mindset. I do this by reminding myself I only have 1 shot to live my best life which includes opportunities that may be uncomfortable, like public speaking. However, these uncomfortable situations are the ones that challenge me, teach me and help me grow. Then I overpower the negative thoughts with positive thoughts by replacing the “I can’t do this” with the “I can do this” (in my head & saying these phrases out loud!).
MOTIVATORS — identify at least one person in your life that will motivate you to face your fear! In my case, this was my dad. I knew as soon as I told him about this opportunity, he was only going to encourage me, uplift me and motivate me to say YES and face my fear head on.
MUSIC –– create a playlist that PUMPS YOU UP! As much as I love getting pumped up to hip hop and rap music, I have a different go to playlist for when I am reallllllly nervous. When I think of a challenge I want to face, I want the one who can make ALL things possible. The one who can create life, heal the sick, restore sight and perform miracles to help me face my fears! I listen to praise and worship songs that remind me how powerful our God is, how much He loves me and how He is always looking out for me. Below are a few of my favs that I listened to earlier this week:
Who You Say I am – Hillsong United
You Say – Lauren Daigle
Mover of Mountains – Citipointe Live
Our God – Chris Tomlin
Forever Reign – Newsboys
All Things Possible – Mark Schultz
Rise – Danny Gokey
Tori Kelly – Never Alone
Lastly, remember you’re not alone. God’s got you.
Have faith in yourself & His amazing plans for your life!
