What is your biggest fear?
It gets you thinking, right? Yes, I know Halloween is still a month away, but that’s not why I bring it up!
There are all kinds of fears out there. Some people are afraid of spiders, some people are afraid of heights. Even the silliest of things, I’m sure there are people out there afraid of them!
And that’s natural.
Humans are supposed to be afraid of things. Naturally, it’s how we survive! If we felt no sort of fear towards anything, we’d be running straight into danger.
But here’s the thing.
Not everything you’re afraid of is dangerous.
Let’s say, for example; the fear of heights. Sure, it can be dangerous at times. Humans are ground mammals, so being afraid of being high above the ground is a natural fear, and we recognise the fear that comes from falling and being out of our natural habitat.
Now let’s compare that to a fear of public speaking.
People can sense that speaking to a much larger audience than, let’s say, a small group of friends is much more difficult and can lead them to behaving more forced and unnatural at times. This can make them feel uneasy.
But where’s the danger?
When you’re feeling anxious or afraid, you’re most likely to think of the worst case scenario, right?
If falling is the dangerous aspect of heights, then that would be the worst case scenario that those who fear heights would possibly feel. Whereas, if you’re afraid of public speaking, perhaps the worst case scenario would be embarrassing yourself, being laughed at by your audience, maybe having food in your teeth or a stain on your shirt?
Let’s be honest, whilst no one wants to be in that situation, it’s no where near as bad as the dangers of heights!
How do people normally conquer their fears?
The most common expression you’ve probably heard is ‘face your fears’. And it’s entirely true!
If you’re afraid of spiders, try holding a tarantula! If you’re afraid of clowns, try visiting a circus! As for heights, well, try jumping out of a plane!
Or if you’re afraid of public speaking, just try it out!
There’s a quote I rather like by Fred Miller, it states “The worst speech you’ll ever give will be far better than the one you’ll never give.”
Let that sink in.
Everyone has a story to share, and you never know who might need to hear exactly what you have to say. You could be the next person to create an impact and really make a difference – whether it’s on one person, a group, or even the world!
The first speech anyone makes will (90% of the time!) be the worst speech they make. And that’s OK! There’s a reason why they say practice makes perfect, and the only way to grow confidence in something is to just do it. A lot.
Imagine if some of the greatest speakers in the world had never got around to public speaking because of their fears. How different would the world be?
It’s a powerful thought.
My point is, you’ll never be able to get over the fear of public speaking until you do it.
After all, it beats having to skydive doesn’t it?
So where can you start?
Luckily for you, our Strictly Come Speaking event is coming up soon – on the 25th of September! We rescheduled due to the Queen’s passing, so if you missed out before, here’s your second (and final!) chance to get your free ticket and find your voice.
You’ll be surrounded by supportive, inspirational women who have been in your spot before, so I can guarantee that we’ll be able to help you with your fear.
Get your free ticket here, and I hope to see you soon!
Cheryl xx
PS – The genetic blueprint really helps with understanding who you are and what you are here to do – fill in this 2-minute questionnaire and I will send you your own ‘genetic blueprint’ which will help you understand yourself so you can begin to find your why! You will find it here.
PPS – If the link doesn’t work for any reason (sometimes technology has a bad day) then email me on cheryl@cheryl-chapman.com and I will sort it out for you!
PPS – If you liked this blog and want to read more blogs surrounding female empowerment, you can find last week’s here: ‘It’s Time To Cross The Confidence Gap!‘
“I’m on a global mission to help 10 million disheartened souls, who are at a crossroads, to STOP asking why me? And START saying why not me!”