Showing up authentically
I did a brave thing.
On Friday I stood up and spoke in front of 50+ people. It was early in the morning, before people’s work days began. We started a cold and dark winter day off together, with coffee and friendly chit chat. Mostly people I do not know. And I stood up and spoke about Inner Child work.
My own inner kiddo was ⚡️FREAKED⚡️ out.
Not only had it been for-ever since I’ve done public speaking (I actually can’t remember exactly when the last time was, and it was definitely in front of a mostly familiar audience). And I don’t think I’ve ever tried to do it without notes in my hand.
But I tried it this time. And someone I think I pulled it off.
Or at least I survived. Maybe somewhere in between pulling it off and just surviving. It may have actually gone alright!
Of course there are loads of things I would do differently next time, but for the most part I said exactly what I wanted to say. And I’m so grateful that I did it. I’m grateful for the opportunity (thank you Rachael and Creative Mornings and Alanna and Vibe!) I’m also grateful for the support in getting ready. And for each friend and stranger who sat and stood in that bright beautiful room and listed and smiled and nodded.
A couple of you may have even teared up with me a little bit.
The reason I’m sharing this with you here, is to remind you today that we can do hard things. Especially when we are in alignment with our SELVES.
The only way I could do this talk without notes is because I believe so much in the subject matter. It was true and authentic to me and my experience - as a human and as a coach. This works helps people.
And since its so much a part of who I am, I didn't’ have to depend on memorizing lines or facts. It was just a story, and some thoughts to illustrate how much I believe in this stuff. How Inner Child work can be profoundly impactful on our lives, and how simple it can be to make a step towards rekindling a relationship with our inner selves.
For me, speaking in public about this was a small step towards what I want to be doing more of - speaking and writing. But more importantly, it was a step towards reconnecting with myself and doing something risky and scary in collaboration with myself. There was no trampling over my feelings, no downplaying or diminishing my fears.
I honestly feel proud of myself, in the best and most humble way. Like I’m proud of SiSi when she takes a big step forward in her own development as a 4 year old. Without pushing or prodding. We are meant to grow.
You can take steps like this too.
Perhaps you’re facing a difficult conversation this week. Or a vulnerable email, or presentation you need to get out there into the world.
It could be saying NO.
Or maybe it’s saying YES.
I’m here to tell you: You can do it. And it’s going to feel so much better if it comes from a true place within you. Don’t do it for anyone else. Don’t do it because you Should. Do it because it matters to you, because you want to show up as your fullest self. Because you believe in what you're doing. Because you believe in YOU.
Hold your own hand.
Give yourself a hug.
And take the leap.
Do it because you know the Universe is on your side. Because She is.
And so am I.
I’d love to hear from you. Especially if you’re doing something brave this week.
In it together, always,
Marit
