From Shy to Confident: My Journey in Public Speaking
Public speaking has the power to strike fear into the hearts of many, myself included. For most of my life, I was an introvert who would rather hide in the shadows than step into the spotlight. I found myself in situations where I had to face my fear head-on. In this personal blog, I want to share my journey from being a shy individual to becoming a confident speaker in front of a crowd. It's a journey of self-discovery, growth, and overcoming personal limitations.
The Shy Beginnings
My story begins in Nashik small, quiet town where I grew up.
As a child, I was extremely introverted. Speaking in front of a few people was challenging.
. I would often avoid situations that required me to speak publicly, missing
out on many opportunities along the way. I was like the Ishaan from from Taare
Zameen Par. Whenever my class teacher use to call my name to read a book in
front of class, my hand use to sweat and heart starts beating really fast. I
cannot even talk to girls from my class. I had that feeling that how can a boy
talk to a girl that to a random stranger. And it kept on going till I reached
in class 6th.
The Turning Point
Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us. In my case, it
was an opportunity that required me to give speech in front of school. I
couldn't run away from it any longer. It was a sink-or-swim situation, and I
decided to swim. I realized that if I wanted grow personally, I needed to
conquer my fear of public speaking. But it’s not that easy for a boy who cannot
speak in front of his class of 40 students and now trying speaking in front of
400 students.
The Learning Phase
I went on a journey of self-improvement. I read books on
public speaking, I started reading scripts in front of mirror. I learned
valuable techniques such as controlling my breathing, maintaining eye contact,
and structuring my speeches effectively.
I started speaking in front of small groups to gradually build my confidence.
I did everything to become a great speaker for that one election of my school
and I finally gave my speech in front of all. It went well, and I was satisfied
with my hard work. And after 3 days of nervousness, finally the day came, the
day of results.
The First Hit
One of the most significant lessons I learned was the
importance of vulnerability. I realized that it's okay to be nervous and make
mistakes. Sharing personal stories and connecting with the audience on a human
level is the most important thing in elections. And the results were out and as
I had the feeling the same thing happened I didn’t get selected. I was really
upset but I knew it’s not the end. I got my mistake and I started improving it.
Over time, I learned to turn my vulnerability into a source of strength and
authenticity. I mad new friends, I use to get into random groups for strangers
and use to talk to them. Few use to refuse to let me in the conversation, few
use to ignore but I never stopped. I gradually made progress.
Race For The Position
Then finally after a years in class 8th I got
chance to stand for election not for caption but for HEAD BOY of the school,
the biggest post a student can have in school level. The post itself tell the
toughness and the competition. With each successful speech, my confidence grew.
I learned to manage my anxiety and use it as a source of energy. Visualization
and positive self-talk became my allies in building self-assurance. Till now I
and so many contacts, so many friends, almost every teacher us to know me. I
took part in every activity of my school, which gave me recognition. The
election went well. And I was 100% sure I will win. It’s like over confidence
but I had a valid reason. I was also in the line of voting at the last. And HOD
was observing everyone who was voting. She was looking at the votes given to
nominees, and observed the 80 to 85 percent of voters were clicking the same
name. She stopped one and asked him, who is the Aditya and why are you voting him.
He just pointed out me at the back towards me and said, he is the only person I
can tell my problems and I am dam sure he will give me a proper solution.
The Final Day
The transformation was gradual but profound. This time I was really positive about my work. Everyone gathered on the ground eager to see their leader. And I started having butterflies in my stomach. And the name was announced “HEAD BOY OF THE SCHOOL” is MASTER ADITYA RASAL. I cried in tears of happiness. I was so desperate to hear those 2 words. The day of rewards for my work, the day where all the efforts get paid off. I got the badge of head boy. But “WITH GREAT POWER COMES GREAT RESPONSIBILITY”. By the way it’s a dialogue from spider man but it applies in this situation. Once you take the first step, Its never the ends. As I continued to evolve as a speaker, I realized the importance of helping others overcome their fear of public speaking. I began mentoring individuals who were in the same position I once was. It was incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and confidence blossoming.
A New Chapter
My journey from being a shy and timid individual to a
confident public speaker has been a remarkable one. It has not only enhanced my
career but also enriched my personal life. I've learned that stepping out of
your comfort zone and facing your fears can lead to incredible personal growth.
I encourage anyone who struggles with public speaking to take that first step
because you never know where your journey may lead you. Embrace the fear, learn
from it, and use it to become the best version of yourself.
So, if you're reading this as a fellow shy individual,
remember that you have the potential to overcome your fears and shine on the stage
of life. It all starts with that first step, that first word spoken in front of
others. Don't let your shyness hold you back; let it be the catalyst for your
transformation. Your journey to confidence in public speaking is waiting to
begin.
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