Strappy Pink Heel
Most of us creatives come to a point where we need to step away from the easel, desk, computer or kitchen and go out and talk to people.
And it's a darn frightening proposition for most of us.
It could be a live demonstration, speaking in front of a group, or presenting yourself and services to a new client.
Over the weekend I volunteered at the Sacramento Women's Expo. It was the first expo featuring speakers, the "marketplace" and a fashion show.
No, I didn't make any presentations. But I did get a great life lesson.
I was assigned to work at the fashion show. The fashion show featured local Sacramento designers, boutiques and their clothes. I loved the modern, fun and fashionable styles by Kokoon, Lanvie and other designers who have brought their designs to the local area.
As in all events, there are people who don't show. This was true here and several models (also volunteers) didn't show up as expected. As a result one of the designers was looking for a model to a) wear the clothes and b) fit into them. She had a more elegant, modern look suited for the creative, city girl (my take on it!)
The designer tried the dress on a model who was not walking in that particular show but the dress didn't suit her. She turned to her assistant; a young woman who works for the company. This young woman (let's call her T) hadn't modeled before but after a request from her boss, T agreed.
The dress really looked as if it had been made for T. It fit perfectly, the colors complemented her hair and skin. Plus, T's black leggings and grey heel-height boots matched the fun and fallish outfit.
The time came for the fashion show. I watched the models walk up the stairs across from me. I could see the difference in confidence levels by the looks on their faces and the way they held themselves. Some faces were stiff and the smiles forced. Others enjoyed the time in the spotlight and confidently turned, smiled and walked down the runway.
I saw T as her turn came. She stepped up, ready to step out. She walked towards me, stopping to wait for the model before her to finish walking.
T was trembling. I could see her body softly vibrating as she looked out to the audience of several hundred people. It took less than a minute for me to see she wasn't breathing. Finally I caught her eye, gave her a big smile and mouthed the words, "DEEP BREATHE." I don't know if she understood what I said or my demonstration as I took a deep breath, but she tool some breaths and grinned. She walked down the runway and out of my sight.
When she came back, she came down the stairs and gave me hug. T did a great job, jumped out of her pre-assigned role to show off the gorgeous dress.
We're told public speaking is one of the most feared things people don't want to do. Sometimes we have to do something out of our comfort zone if we want to grow.
If T hadn't agreed to show the dress, hundreds of women would not have seen it. The designer would have missed the opportunity for exposure and sales. Without this kind of sharing and marketing, businesses can't spread the word about their products and services.
Here's a few lessons I learned about public performances and being willing to share when I didn't expect to:
1. You never know when a new challenge or opportunity will come. Be flexible.
T didn't come to the Sac Women's Expo to be a model. She was helping out her boss. As it turned out, the best way to help her boss that day meant being a model. Sometimes to help others or ourselves we have to jump into a new role.
2. Do it afraid.
It was more important to T to help her boss and make the company shine than her own comfort.
If I am constantly obsessed with my comfort and my needs I probably won't make it far in business. I can't wait to feel ready or for confidence to hit; there are things I need to do afraid.
3. Don't forget to breathe. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.
Even though we do tasks afraid doesn't mean others need to know we are afraid.
How can we avoid looking fearful? Breathing helps (literally). A few deep breathes brings oxygen and blood to all of our extremities and organs, including our brain! Slow breathes creates a calming effect.
Stand straight when talking to people, even when talking on the phone. Nervous about a phone call or meeting? Standing up straight helps us feel better and more importantly, creates a more confident attitude. Posture is important. Even when sitting down, keep the shoulders and back straight, even as you sit back in the chair.
For in person activities and events, make eye contact.
With everything you can, employ good listening skills. Focusing on what the other persona is saying helps remove the sense of nervousness felt. If you are the one talking, focus on truly listening to the person.
4. If it's truly awful, it will be over soon.
This too, will pass. Sometimes it really is awful. It will be o.k. AND, we'll do better next time.
Public activities may continue to be painful. Always keep the time perspective in mind. It really will be over soon.
Keep breathing, keep practicing and be prepared to congratulate yourself on the job well done. Even if it didn't go ideally, you did it. That's the important part.
Does anyone have a fun story about a public performance that went really well? Are you afraid of speaking, sharing or talking about your art in public or does it feel natural?
The post Do It Afraid Tips for On-the-Spot Public Performances appeared first on Launch Your Creative Life.