Earlier this year when I created my Vision Board, the common theme of everything was to step out of my box. So many times we confine ourselves to standards, and we can accomplish so much more when we open up to experiencing different things and stepping out of our comfort zone.
Last week, I took a big step in coming out of my shell and that was speaking about Blogging. In blogging there are many trends, and bandwagons and I try hard not to jump on the trains…I have done it before and when its over I usually left like why did I do that. So really that’s why I have never decided to become a blog speaker, honestly, I feel like I am learning so much on a daily basis when it comes to blogging that I didn’t think that I knew enough to speak about it.
When I received a Facebook message from Felicia, I was like “Hmmm I wonder, what this is about,” it NEVER crossed my mind that she wanted me to speak! Felicia has known me all my life, but she’s also related to my sister through my brother in law, and I knew I couldn’t say No…but I secretly wanted to; I was honored that she thought enough of my blog to invite me to speak (so as usual I went through a BUNCH of emotions…you know me). But I only wanted to say no because I was scared. Felicia is so fun and easy going and reassured me a couple of times that I would be okay, and that I would do great (thanks Felicia)!
So I did it, I spoke to a small group about blogging…
Blogging is so broad so I wasn’t sure if I should start from the beginning of how to start a blog or if I should touch on a few major points. Well the night before “it” came to me and I created a small presentation!
I spoke on a few topics that I think are vital in becoming a blogger, and vital to bloggers that have been blogging for a long time!
Ways to Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone…
Say Yes…Say Yes before you think about it. If you think about it, the more likely you are to say no. Also, no one likes someone that is flaky, so once you say yes you wont be able to go back on your word.
Have a Motivational Speech with Yourself…Keep reminding yourself how you got to this point, why you are qualified, your accomplishments. I know to some this may sound crazy but sometimes you have to remind yourself how you got to this point.
Reach Out to Your Tribe…I consulted with other bloggers, family and a couple of friends. I needed a pep-talk, and they were there to give me what I needed. I had my immediate family attend the event with me because they are a big part of my blog, but they also served as a comfort blanket for me as well. My husband gave me a motivational speech before we started, kissed me on my forehead and slapped me on the butt and told me to do a good job.
Prayer or Meditate…When I am getting ready to do something outside of my comfort zone I usually go into prayer to calm my nerves. At some point you need to go to your quiet place to get your thoughts together. I did the day before and I wrote a small list and I was able to gather my thoughts to create a presentation. I was also able to write speaking notes for myself.
Keep a Note Book Handy…after committing to an event. You will either start working right away or you will wait until the last minute…but as you think about it, its always good to have a notebook on you to to jot down random thoughts or ideas. You never know where you may find inspiration, so its good to always have a notebook or somewhere to write down your thoughts and ideas.
After I agreed to come to speak on blogging I knew I had committed to something BIG! This was the first time I would ever go in front of anyone to speak on blogging. I have been to a couple of conferences, and thought wow how do you become a blog guru enough to speak to others about blogging. Well the truth is, you pick a topic and learn as much as you can and you share the information with others. You don’t have to be an expert in everything, you need to know information on the subject you are speaking on. Be yourself, and let the audience know if you don’t have an answer…this was one of the things that I loved about the group I spoke with they asked questions and they were okay with me saying I was unsure how to answer them. I answered most of the questions to the best of my ability but I pointed them in the right direction if I was unsure of an answer.
I truly love this experience and I cant thank Felicia enough for the opportunity to speak. And I hope that I get the chance to come back and speak again. But what I also hope is that this opens doors to more speaking opportunities! I never imagined myself as a blogger that did speaking engagements, but I was wrong! Now I need to step out of my comfort zone a little more to apply to be a speaker at a conference!!!
How do you plan on stepping out of your comfort zone this year?
