Embrace "Fake It 'til You Make It"

Throughout my career journey, I've encountered my fair share of challenges. One question recently prompted me to reflect on how I managed to overcome these hurdles. One challenge that stood out was my stage fright. The realisation hit hard when I found myself on stage delivering a presentation to 120 pairs of eyes fixated on me years ago. In that moment, I froze, stumbling through my talk like a wooden statue. It wasn't a memorable experience, but what happened next shaped my path in unexpected ways.

I recognised that achieving the career I envisioned required more than just typing behind a computer screen and occasional conversations. I needed to conquer my fear and reclaim the stage. That's when I remembered Amy Cuddy's remarkable TED talk titled "Fake It Until You Become It." Following her lead, I decided to press on despite my fears, using the stage as my proving ground.

The journey began with pushing myself to speak to audiences of all sizes. Engaging with different personality types posed a unique challenge. As someone not naturally inclined toward intricate details, I needed specific cues to maintain my flow. Adapting to these diverse audiences demanded finding the right balance of detail while keeping the presentation engaging. But the pivotal step was getting myself on stage initially.

This is where Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) came into play. NLP is a powerful tool for reframing perspectives and changing the way we perceive challenges. My initial perspective of facing a large audience was one of trepidation, but I reframed it to one of anticipation and enjoyment. I remember the day when I felt confident pacing the stage, delivering punch lines that garnered genuine laughter. My focus wasn't stand-up comedy, but rather sharing insights in an engaging manner, discussing diverse personality types and how they influenced perspectives. I still recall that first laugh from the audience—a moment that marked a turning point.

From then on, my journey transformed. I found delight in the challenge of helping groups grasp new concepts and alter their outlooks. I developed a genuine passion for presenting, a buzz that remains with me to this day.

So, a heartfelt thank you to Amy Cuddy for introducing the "fake it 'til you become it" concept. It's more than just a saying; it's a path to personal growth. For those embarking on a similar journey, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP). It's a powerful tool that can guide you through the process and help you discover your inner strength.

Resilience isn't about avoiding challenges; it's about facing them head-on, transforming fear into growth. Whether it's on the stage or in the boardroom, embracing discomfort is often the first step toward success.

Best of luck!