Conquering Your Greatest Fear

What is your greatest fear?

Is it spiders, deep water or heights? No. Perhaps it's confined spaces or the greatest fear of all (according to numerous surveys) public speaking? Unbelievably, we fear this more than we do death.

This was also my greatest fear. Despite being outgoing and confident (at least that was the image I presented to the outside world), my terror at speaking in public was almost debilitating.

I felt sick, shook from head to toe and my voice cracked so that it was impossible to understand what I was saying. I would literally do ANYTHING I could to avoid speaking to a group of people. I must be the only graduate who was able to complete a four-year degree without giving a single presentation. My creativity to avoid this task was simply out-standing.

And this is why today is such a special day. Today I am publishing my first ever Speaker Showreel. The journey hasn't been easy and has been twenty years in the making. It started on the day that I decided I wanted to teach Marketing having just obtained my Masters degree. A mad decision for someone who hated public speaking but there you go. I still have no idea why I wanted to do this but I am glad I did because it gave me the courage I needed to address my biggest demon.

So for any of you who are out there and don't believe you can conquer your fear, I would say 'YES YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN!' Find your motivation, unleash your inner tiger and be brave.

Nowadays I love speaking and it forms a fundamental part of my business strategy. In 2016 I was a Regional Champion and National Semi-Finalist at the Professional Speaking Association's Annual Speaker Factor competition. Having the opportunity to share my views of the world, whilst creating a connection with those who are listening; to my mind there is no greater gift. Of course I still get nervous but they are good nerves, the ones that help me give my audience the best experience I can.

So today I am going to do something I would never normally do. Today I am unashamedly promoting myself. If you are looking for a speaker for your next event or conference, then take a look at my showreel and if you like what you see and hear, please get in touch. I'd love to hear from you.