(photo from www.masterviews.com)Well, according to this chart I am not alone :) I have both the fears of public speaking and the fear of flying...nice to know I'm not alone.
Tonight I had the privilege (AHHHH) of speaking at a prenatal class about Doula services. The problem was, I was told I only had 5 minutes, plus the class had already watched my video on doula services 2 weeks prior, so I figured I'd just go and answer their questions for 5 minutes. I didn't take any notes with me...BIG MISTAKE. I stuttered, forgot certain words and sweat like crazy (good thing I knew this would happen and I picked a shirt that wouldn't show it). What is it about public speaking that is so stinkin terrifying? I prayed for confidence, but I just fell apart. I think it was because I didn't have my notes. I mean, I am a competent doula, and I am proud of the services I offer, and I know they could benefit these couples I'm speaking too, so why am I so afraid of them all?
I remember my very first interview with potential clients 4 1/2 years ago. I can't believe they actually ended up hiring me (must have been because I was free :) I know that I forgot some words and stuttered my way through that interview. I just attended the birth of their 3 child in January and I was sharing with her about how nervous I had been that night and how grateful I was that they gave me the opportunity to get a start in the field. It's very terrifying having done the doula course and trying to find people who will actually allow you into the delivery room with them. For a while there I actually thought it may not happen. Now I look back and laugh, seeing how far I've come, and then I have a night like tonight and I feel like I'm back in high school. All insecure and terrified of the people I'm speaking to.
I'm so silly.
Mel
2 comments:
Oh Mel, I'm sure it wasn't as bad as you think. We are our own worst critics. I too am nervous speaking in front of crowds, so when I started having to teach prenatals, it was terrifying. But someone told me something that really helped: to the audience, you are seen as an expert on your topic, and no matter who's in your group (doctors, etc), they're there because they want to learn from you.
I'm sure the class was thrilled to have you, even if you weren't perfectly polished.
Kim
ah Mel.........not silly at all, we can all get nervous, and I agree with Kim, those people are there because they know that you have something to offer, plus if you look confident and sound confident you will become more confident
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