Speaking in a group as a shy student at school was a problem for me. One of the worst experiences I can remember is the speaking exam I had to do for GCSE English which involved having a discussion in a group of four students and the teacher. I could usually respond verbally if I…
As we’re accepting applications for our Socially Anxious to Quietly Confident programme (Yay!), we’ve been reflecting on the decision-making process -and what happens AFTER we’ve committed, so we can support our Quieteers when and how they need it. But it’s not only our Quieteers starting a new course -I’m going back to school too! Some…
At 7 years old, I felt so terrified when doing a ‘weather forecast’ at school, I nervously farted in front of my class. At 26, I froze during a 3-minute presentation whilst on a ‘Projecting Professional Confidence’ workshop; feeling unable to finish I ran back to my seat and held back tears as my body…
‘Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity.’ Brene Brown – Daring Greatly. Like many introverts, I have always been a chronic hater of sharing with the group. Allowing myself to be vulnerable – seen, heard and judged. Speaking in class, staff…
Talking in front of large groups or individuals can be tough for anybody living with social anxiety. I prefer to be around a friend or somebody I’m familiar with when speaking to one or several new people (and a bit of Dutch courage might help me too!). However, in the workplace you will not always…
Speaking at Cornwall Business Fair alongside Sally Heard, CEO from Cornwall School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE), I opened up about the hidden challenges of social entrepreneurship: feeling like you’re not good enough and don’t belong here. The imposter experience is something I think the majority of us have experienced, be that in our careers or personal…
What are you thinking about when you’re having a conversation? Are you fully present? Or is there a voice in your head? At Speaking Connections in August we looked at listening skills and explored what goes on in our heads when we’re having a conversation. I think everyone was a bit surprised to find out that…
We can all be courageous with a good enough reason Did you see me getting vulnerable on BBC Spotlight? If you missed it, here I am with Stacie, Fi and Gemma from our speaking club, sharing our mental health stories about suicide ideation and attempts with BBC Health Correspondent, Jenny Walrond. When Jenny asked if…
I’m just a drop in the ocean, but look at the ripple effect one drop can make… I’m continuing to share my stories more and more publicly, and I’m helping others to do this too. This is Jenny and Tony from BBC Spotlight. Today, myself and three ladies from our speaking club met with Jenny for…
At April’s Speaking Connections gathering, we spent some time sharing the valuable tips that our members are already using in overcoming nervousness in speaking. This is one of a two-part post sharing our members’ wisdom. Look out for our previous post passing on the gatherings practical tips. Getting into the right frame of mind What can you do to relax before an…
At April’s Speaking Connections gathering, we spent some time sharing the valuable tips that our members are already using in overcoming nervousness in speaking. This is one of a two-part post sharing our members’ wisdom. Look out for our next post passing on the gatherings mindset tips. Practising and using prompts One of the best ways to ease the anxiety…
Racing heart, wobbly legs, churning stomach and the feeling that any moment now you’re about to pass out because you can hardly breathe. Yes, it’s the impending doom of knowing you have to stand up in front of a room filled with people and talk. Now, I don’t personally know anyone who particularly loves public speaking (do…