Intersection of Three: Public Speaking, Meditation & Writing
Angelika Fuellemann
What happens when you leave your comfort zone?
Sunday morning, while browsing on my phone, I came across 10 Uncomfortable Deeds That Will Make You Far More Successful by Travis Bradberry. While reading, I was pleasantly surprised to see I was doing two deeds on his list: public speaking and meditation. One challenge of mine the past year has been to get out of my comfort zone and find the dream job I have always wanted.
Public Speaking: In November of 2015, I joined the Hoboken MileSquare Toastmasters. Toastmasters is a non-profit that teaches public speaking through locally organized clubs. Yup, it is a dorky, old-fashioned name but it works. I go every week and make myself participate. Getting up on stage every time is a small step forward, slowly building confidence through doing. It is progress not perfection. I have gotten a great feeling of connection with other people as I share some of myself with my audience. Taking the time to focus on improving yourself pays for itself in ways you’re not aware of.
Meditation: Last year, I went through a nerve-racking time; I had left my full-time job, enrolled in a demanding 10-week class and started freelancing. I found myself juggling a lot of emotions along with the work. I started feeling overwhelmed — working long hours and not feeling like I was doing my best. I had read about the monkey mind, a buddhist term for unsettled thoughts, and oh boy, mine were kicking up a storm. I decided to start paying some attention to these trouble makers with meditation. I started meditating for 15 minutes every day and have maintained it over the past year. I did miss a few sessions here and there, but I didn’t let that stop me. Pausing and taking some time for myself helps me feel less stressed and more grounded.
Writing: A new objective outside my comfort zone is to establish a writing habit. My goals are to clarify my thoughts and build connection with myself and others. I write unendingly in my notes app. I now aim to write on a regular basis and share my thoughts with the outside world, not just with my iPhone. Not knowing where I am going and convoluted writing be damned. Too bad SIRI isn’t a writing coach.
“Noticed you have been doing a lot of writing in your notes app, why don’t you share that with someone?” — SIRI
I hope this intersection of three, public speaking, mediation and writing, will help me better understand myself. These three will require some commitment and perseverance. I will keep the mantra “progress, not perfection” near at hand when the frustration monkey pops up and starts chattering.