From Doubter to Speaker: Breaking Barriers and Finding My Voice

I am the type of person who prefers to stay at home or seclude myself in a corner of the office at work, away from the gaze of others. I don't like to mingle with many people, as it often leads to negative thoughts in my brain.

One day in the last week of February 2020, I came home from work and my mother informed me that they had met with my High School teacher, who was the student affairs coordinator. I was invited to be a resource speaker for the CAREER GUIDANCE SYMPOSIUM for that year's graduating students.

Where other alumni might jump on such an invitation no matter how busy they are, I was trying to find reasons not to go. I acknowledged my mother's information with a nod, but internally I was thinking of ways to decline due to the feedback I'd have to provide. I spent the whole night pondering how I could avoid attending.

When I arrived at the office the next day, I told my manager about the invitation and how I was seeking reasons to decline. Even requested additional workload to use it as an excuse, stating that I would be busy during the audit week. But my manager encouraged me to attend and expand my horizons beyond the office. About five days before the event, he asked me to file a vacation leave for that event and he approved it immediately.

I was hesitant as I didn't really want to go, even though I was familiar with the concept of being a resource speaker from school and college. I just didn't want to interact with a lot of people, and the thought of speaking in front of them filled my brain with doubtful thoughts.

The event was scheduled for February 28, 2020, but on the morning of the 27th, I was still contemplating not going. I thought they might have found other speakers since I hadn't confirmed my attendance. That night, after reaching home, I reluctantly sent a message to my teacher, finally confirming that I would attend the career guidance symposium the next day.

That night, I kept rereading my prepared speech. Still, I couldn't help but be distracted by doubtful thoughts. I worried about how my former teachers and students would react to my presentation, and whether the students would learn anything meaningful from my experiences.

On the morning of February 28, I woke up feeling nauseous, a symptom I often experience before I attend large gatherings. I pushed through it because I had committed to my teacher. I arrived at the venue 15 minutes later and noted that there were few other guest speakers. They were all professionals, and I felt overwhelmed. However, I realized that there was no turning back.

The other speakers included a teacher, dentist, doctor, nurse, and engineer, all accomplished individuals molded by time and opportunity, and me from the corporate world. Luckily, all of them were friendly and approachable even if I was the youngest amongst the speakers.

During my stint as a speaker, everyone laughed when I confessed the reason for my tardiness in giving feedback. I was quite candid about my request to my manager for an additional workload, but I would only elaborate on the reasons why I could not proceed.

After my session, when I finally got a chance to sit at the table with the other guest speakers, the dentist sitting next to me joked, "Hey, I thought you were shy, but you really spoke up." She said this in a playful manner, and I took it as a compliment, reassured that I did well.

Even one of my past teachers praised me. She shared with everyone that the faculty had chosen to invite me not only because they wanted someone from the corporate world, but also because they found my story inspiring. She wanted the students to get to know the person she constantly refers to in her classes. She always encourages her students to study hard and not waste time and opportunities, citing me—someone who had to work tirelessly to complete her education—as an example.

I'm Not a "People Person," But This Symposium Changed My Tune

I'm grateful for that day because none of my negative thoughts materialized. It was an enriching experience to share my journey and valuable lessons. My fears of being dull were unfounded, as the students found my experiences relatable and engaging. They were intrigued by some of the quotes I sprinkled throughout my speech.

You've come this far. May the Divine Grace be upon you. ♥

If you have some spare time to review my other pieces of writing, I would greatly appreciate your support and I thank you in advance.

Confessions of a Nervous Nelly

Beyond the Type: Understanding My INFJ-T Personality in Depth

My Inner Self Revealed: A Personality Test Adventure

Aching Heart
Breaking the Mold: How Extracurriculars Helped Me Find My Voice
The Curious Case of the Sleepless Mind
Gratitude for the gifts of Wisdom and Resilience
The Weight of Love
The Music That Whispers Hope
Hair fall: A Whisper of Worry