Two weeks ago I attended a Networking event with a colleague. It was her first speaking engagement, and I offered my help weeks previously, but as the days were getting closer to the event, I could feel my body almost rejecting the notion that I would be in a room full of strangers. You have no idea how badly I wanted to cancel on her, but, I know that I couldn’t. She needed me, and I was not going to let some silly anxiety get in the way of that.
The week leading up to the event, I noticed that I was trying to ‘psych’ myself up for it. I kept reiterating in my head all the positive outcomes that could potentially come from the both of us going and it honestly helped ease my nerve for a little while.
I went to go pick her up to drive us both to the venue and on my way to her place I caught myself doing breathing exercises. I was assuming that roughly 50 people would arrive and I needed to prepare for it. It seems silly that I need to prepare mentally – but whenever I go into a situation without expectation or knowledge, I find myself drowning.
We were the first to arrive, and I was elated, I was able to walk around and scope out the floor plan. I always need to know where my exits are, in case I get into a panic and need the fresh air. My colleague was the last on the docket of three speakers, so I was able to get comfortable in my little spot in the corner. The first two speakers were drab & boring, and I was fighting to keep my eyes awake… but when she went up on the stage, I was blown away. She was collected, informed & engaged the tiresome group. Her enthusiasm rubbed off on me and instantly made me feel better to be by her side. Whenever I hang around people that brush off this positivity, it’s difficult not to get caught up in it. This distraction is vital when it comes to anxiety!
I’m glad that I was able to be there for her and see her shine in her element! If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t even fathom going to another networking event, but she pushed me to believe that I can. I highly recommend Sex Up Your Brand and am happy to be involved in this amazing company
The Gray Space 