What makes you nervous?
We all have that one moment—the story you swear you’ll never tell but somehow ends up being the story everyone hears.
For me, it happened on a random Tuesday, at a local conference where I was not supposed to speak. I had come to support a friend and maybe collect a few networking tips. What I didn’t expect was to become the accidental “star” of the evening… for all the wrong reasons.
Here’s what went down.
I’m standing in the back, clutching my notebook, when the host says:
“One more volunteer to share something inspirational before we close. Anyone?”
Why did my hand go up?
To this day, I blame the adrenaline… or the lovely ambiance.
Next thing I knew, I was walking to the front like I had a TED Talk planned. I didn’t.
My Mind: “Say Something Deep.
My Mouth: “Uh… Hi?”
I stood there. Eyes on me. Microphone hot.
My inner dialogue was SCREAMING.
“Why are they staring like that?”
“Is it hot in here or just my armpits?”
“What even is inspiration?!”
Then I laughed awkwardly. Out loud. Alone.
And said:
“I’m not really sure why I raised my hand. I think my brain and body are in a disagreement right now.”
That, surprisingly, got a laugh.
I Fumbled Forward Anyway
I talked about how I almost didn’t come that evening because I felt like I had nothing of value to offer.
How nervousness always made me hide.
And how I was tired of letting fear decide the size of my life.
It wasn’t a polished speech.
But it was real. And raw.
And apparently, just what the room needed.
People clapped. Some even stood.
I think one guy wiped a tear. (Okay, maybe it was sweat.)
What Happened Next Shocked Me
After the event, three people came up to say:
“You just said what I’ve been feeling for months.”
One lady asked if I could speak at her women’s group.
Another said she wanted to interview me on her YouTube channel.
And just like that, my messy moment became a magnetic moment.
I wasn’t famous. But I was seen.
And all because nervous little me opened her mouth when fear said, “Stay quiet.”
What I Learned That Day
1. Nervousness Doesn’t Mean You’re Not Ready
It means you care.
It means you’re human.
But it doesn’t mean you should sit down and stay silent.
2. Your Imperfection Is More Powerful Than You Think
People don’t connect with your polish.
They connect with your honesty. Your struggle. Your courage to stand there, shaking and sweating, and still speak your truth.
3. Sometimes, Awkward is the Assignment
If I had given a perfect, memorized speech, no one would have remembered me.
But awkward, giggling, unfiltered me?
Apparently, that’s unforgettable.
4. Saying Yes Scares You First—But Liberates You Later
That night, my nervous “yes” cracked something open in me.
It led to more opportunities, more confidence, and more stories (with fewer awkward laughs… okay, maybe not).
Inspired by My Story? Here’s What You Can Do Today:
- Say yes to one small thing that scares you.
Apply to speak. Join the panel. Share your story online. - Turn your mess into a message.
Write about it. Talk about it. Laugh about it. You never know who it’ll help. - Build a “Courage Muscle.”
Start a journal of every brave thing you’ve done—no matter how small. Watch your confidence grow.
Read These Amazing stories
Read our Post on: How to Make Self-Improvement Fun: 7 Wildly Creative Confidence-Building Exercises That Actually Work
Jeremy wasn’t just quiet. He was stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, inner criticism, and fear of judgment.
For years, he asked himself one painful question:
“What’s wrong with me?” See his story here: Why Jeremy Struggled with Confidence for Years (And How He Finally Broke Free)
The ability to see oneself clearly, embrace strengths, and acknowledge one’s flaws without succumbing to the pressure of perfection is a journey many yearn to undertake. Read the Book “Building Unstoppable Self-Esteem” today and begin your transformation!
Take Action Today
You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
You just have to be present.
And a little willing to look ridiculous on your way to something remarkable.
So here’s to nervousness.
To awkward moments.
And to almost being famous… by accident.
Because sometimes, that’s how your real story begins.
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