How to face fear head on and expand your comfort zone
August 7 2023
·
August 7 2023
·
Today, I want to share with you a personal experience that truly ignited my passion and taught me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone.
Not long ago, I had the incredible opportunity to be interviewed for a podcast. During the interview, the host asked me a thought-provoking question: "Can you share a time when you felt incredibly proud of yourself?" I took a moment to reflect, and my mind instantly wandered back to a defining moment in my career earlier this year.
It all started with a seemingly simple decision – to be more curious and open to new opportunities. I had a desire to grow, both professionally and personally, and I believed that being open-minded was the key to unlocking a world of possibilities. Little did I know that this decision would lead me to an exhilarating journey into the world of public speaking.
Early in the year, I took on the challenge of giving a keynote speech. Now, if you know me well, you'd understand how nerve-wracking this prospect was for me, since I'm used to speaking to a camera and only posting once everything is exactly how I want it to be. Being a content creator, you can edit out any mistakes or moments when your mind goes blank for a few seconds! The weekend leading up to the event, my anxiety skyrocketed, and self-doubt tried to creep into my mind. I found myself in bed crying on the Sunday morning to my husband Adam, because I was overcome with anxiety and the fear of the unknown.
But, instead of succumbing to fear and retreating into my comfort zone, I shifted my focus. I centered my thoughts on the intention behind my speech and how I wanted the audience to feel, rather than getting bogged down by the fear of judgment and the spotlight being on me.
The day of the keynote arrived, and my heart pounded in my chest as I took the stage. I could feel the eyes of the audience on me, but something magical happened and I embraced vulnerability. I laid bare my thoughts, my passion, and my experiences, and connected with the audience on a level I hadn't imagined possible.
In that moment, I realized that courage isn't about never feeling scared; it's about acknowledging that fear and doing it anyway. Stepping up to the podium and sharing my story demanded a profound sense of vulnerability, but it also allowed me to make a genuine impact on those listening and connect with people in real life - something I was missing out on when only posting my content online.
The experience taught me that life's most remarkable moments often lie just beyond the borders of our comfort zones. When we muster the courage to venture into the unknown, we give ourselves a chance to blossom and grow. It's in these moments of uncertainty that we discover our true strength and expand our confidence to embrace new challenges.
Looking back now, I can honestly say that saying "yes" to that opportunity was one of the best decisions I ever made. It was an adventure that pushed me to explore uncharted territories within myself and my abilities. It opened doors to exciting opportunities and sparked a fire within me to continue sharing my knowledge and passion with the world.
So, my dear friends, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own life. Is there a path you've been hesitant to explore? A dream you've tucked away for fear of failure or judgment? Embrace your vulnerability, recognize your fears, and take that leap of faith.
Remember, it's not about being perfect; it's about being authentic. The world needs your unique voice, your perspective, and your story. Let go of the fear of being judged and focus on the impact you can make by being true to yourself.
Together, let's celebrate the power of vulnerability and step boldly into the realm of the unknown. Life is an ever-unfolding journey, and every step we take, no matter how small or grand, contributes to our growth and fulfillment.
I believe in you, just as I believe in the boundless potential that lies within each and every one of us. Embrace your journey, my friends, and let's create a future brimming with courage, authenticity, and shared experiences.
With love and inspiration,
Jessica Holsman
Not long ago, I had the incredible opportunity to be interviewed for a podcast. During the interview, the host asked me a thought-provoking question: "Can you share a time when you felt incredibly proud of yourself?" I took a moment to reflect, and my mind instantly wandered back to a defining moment in my career earlier this year.
It all started with a seemingly simple decision – to be more curious and open to new opportunities. I had a desire to grow, both professionally and personally, and I believed that being open-minded was the key to unlocking a world of possibilities. Little did I know that this decision would lead me to an exhilarating journey into the world of public speaking.
Early in the year, I took on the challenge of giving a keynote speech. Now, if you know me well, you'd understand how nerve-wracking this prospect was for me, since I'm used to speaking to a camera and only posting once everything is exactly how I want it to be. Being a content creator, you can edit out any mistakes or moments when your mind goes blank for a few seconds! The weekend leading up to the event, my anxiety skyrocketed, and self-doubt tried to creep into my mind. I found myself in bed crying on the Sunday morning to my husband Adam, because I was overcome with anxiety and the fear of the unknown.
But, instead of succumbing to fear and retreating into my comfort zone, I shifted my focus. I centered my thoughts on the intention behind my speech and how I wanted the audience to feel, rather than getting bogged down by the fear of judgment and the spotlight being on me.
The day of the keynote arrived, and my heart pounded in my chest as I took the stage. I could feel the eyes of the audience on me, but something magical happened and I embraced vulnerability. I laid bare my thoughts, my passion, and my experiences, and connected with the audience on a level I hadn't imagined possible.
In that moment, I realized that courage isn't about never feeling scared; it's about acknowledging that fear and doing it anyway. Stepping up to the podium and sharing my story demanded a profound sense of vulnerability, but it also allowed me to make a genuine impact on those listening and connect with people in real life - something I was missing out on when only posting my content online.
The experience taught me that life's most remarkable moments often lie just beyond the borders of our comfort zones. When we muster the courage to venture into the unknown, we give ourselves a chance to blossom and grow. It's in these moments of uncertainty that we discover our true strength and expand our confidence to embrace new challenges.
Looking back now, I can honestly say that saying "yes" to that opportunity was one of the best decisions I ever made. It was an adventure that pushed me to explore uncharted territories within myself and my abilities. It opened doors to exciting opportunities and sparked a fire within me to continue sharing my knowledge and passion with the world.
So, my dear friends, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own life. Is there a path you've been hesitant to explore? A dream you've tucked away for fear of failure or judgment? Embrace your vulnerability, recognize your fears, and take that leap of faith.
Remember, it's not about being perfect; it's about being authentic. The world needs your unique voice, your perspective, and your story. Let go of the fear of being judged and focus on the impact you can make by being true to yourself.
Together, let's celebrate the power of vulnerability and step boldly into the realm of the unknown. Life is an ever-unfolding journey, and every step we take, no matter how small or grand, contributes to our growth and fulfillment.
I believe in you, just as I believe in the boundless potential that lies within each and every one of us. Embrace your journey, my friends, and let's create a future brimming with courage, authenticity, and shared experiences.
With love and inspiration,
Jessica Holsman
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