Get comfortable being uncomfortable
Last week, I shared quotes from the testimonial I received from a recent speaking engagement on LinkedIn, on my new @jmtspeaks Instagram account, and in my newsletter. Here goes:
"Jennifer’s speaking style is engaging and dynamic, and her message transcends all professions and stages in careers.... Instant feedback from Jennifer’s presentation included ‘excellent message and speaker’, ‘enlightening presentation’, ‘fantastic’, ‘spectacular’, ‘incredible’, ‘love your vulnerability’, ‘so inspiring’, ‘amazing talk by Jenn’, ‘awesome’ and ‘great insight’.” We can’t recommend Jennifer enough."
I am really proud of the testimonial, but sharing it then and now also makes me really, really uncomfortable. But I knew it was necessary because I wanted to back up a really big ask, which also made me uneasy (and kind of queasy). And I’m glad I did. We need to get comfortable being uncomfortable if we want to make any progress. The alternative is staying cozy…right where we are.
I shared the testimonial and then asked if readers would use it to be a JMT Speaks ambassador. I asked for help expanding my platform and sharing my message. Specifically, I requested that readers:
Suggest that I speak at their place of work, upcoming conference, networking group, or industry event. I customize presentations as needed and my signature talks include:
Authenticity: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Achieve It
Own It! Overcoming the Imposter Syndrome
The Art of Effective Communication
Share, like or comment on my LinkedIn or Instagram posts (@jmtspeaks).
Tell their colleagues and friends to follow me on LinkedIn or Instagram.
Forward this newsletter to someone who would enjoy it and ask them to sign up.
It made me feel itchy and weird and it was outside of my comfort zone to do this. But, I’ve lived to tell. What, specifically? That getting uncomfortable is easier the more you do it, and will move you forward. After putting this ask out in the world, I received multiple responses about leads and opportunities. And you know what else? People thanked me for asking! They said they had been meaning to reach out, they love my message, or that they’d connect me with conference organizers. Wow!
Here's a caveat, though, and it's an important one. Place the ask in context and make sure you do it the right way. Are you truly ready to make the ask? Do you have the right audience? Do you know why you are asking? These questions are situational and fact-specific, but critical inquiries to ensure you're not asking for asking's sake.
So I hope this story inspires you to get outside of your comfort zone and do that thing you’ve been nervous, scared, or uneasy to tackle. It could be anything from volunteering to take on a flex assignment at work to signing up for a marathon. So do it: get comfortable being uncomfortable. And let me know how it goes — and whether you’re feeling more comfortable doing it again.
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