Thrilled.
That's how I felt when Nilofer Merchant e-mailed to tell me that I would be sharing the dais with her at TEDxEmbarcadero.
The honeymoon period -- my elated "I get to go to California! To see my friend Kathleen! To give a TEDx speech! This is going to be SO fun!" -- lasted maybe five minutes.
Not only had I not given this type of speech before, public speaking doesn't come naturally to me. I am far more comfortable behind the bulwark of the piano, and even that isn't easy. In giving a presentation, by definition, we must draw attention to ourselves, rather than deflect. And frankly, I've become quite adept at deflection over the years, frequently tossing away attention like a hot potato, lest I get burned.
Knowing that there was a fine line between the fear that galvanizes and paralyzes, I found a terrific coach, and we got to work. I practiced, and practiced some more; I even ginned up the courage to rehearse in front of my friend Kathleen when the speech still felt pretty rough.
And then on March 24, I showed up. On stage. For 16 1/2 minutes. Hoping to encourage people to dream, not only through the written, but also the spoken word.
Frightening -- yes.
Adrenaline-inducing -- yes.
But I am so glad I took the dare.
I've never considered myself a thrill seeker, but maybe when we dare, we are living on the edge just a little bit. Have you done something recently you really wanted to do, but were frightened?
P.S. Because of my Optimist's Challenge, as I watch the speech, I am going to focus on only two things I could improve, and at least ten things that I liked. Because after all that daring, it would be folly, wouldn't it, to pour 1/2 the water out of this wonderfully full glass?
Congratulations!
Posted by: Henry | May 09, 2011 at 12:31 AM
very brave, whitney....you did GREAT!
Posted by: Rebecca | May 09, 2011 at 06:40 AM
Good for you! What a honor to speak at TED. You were great!!! Good message for anyone making a change in life.
Posted by: Jeanne Boudreau | May 09, 2011 at 10:28 PM
Huge risk and huge reward!!!
Love it - talk about Daring to Dream...
Atta Girl Whitney!
Hugs
S
Posted by: Stacey P | May 11, 2011 at 09:49 PM
You reach higher, more often and with more determination than anyone else I know. Well done. And thanks for being the example.
Posted by: Bonnie White | May 11, 2011 at 11:47 PM
Finally had time to watch this. I found it compelling and fascinating and want to hear more. I've just realized that the majority of people around me are not disrupting. It makes me shy, as if there's an unspoken rule that 'we do not disrupt.' Probably the perfect time to start. Thanks Whitney for inspiring me as usual! (And I want to hear more about your story some time..)
Posted by: Elizabeth Keeler | May 17, 2011 at 09:54 PM
i love reading your words - here and elsewhere. this video was a treat to see you and hear your voice!
great message. applicable and 'disruptive' to us all. thank you!
Posted by: sandra turley | May 18, 2011 at 03:06 PM
Great content and very well done! I really enjoyed the video. Love your jacket, too!
Posted by: Maria | May 19, 2011 at 01:15 PM
This both thrills me and pains me just a little...and you know the reasons why on both counts.
I had NO DOUBT this was in your future from the very first lunch at Red Iguana. I just didn't know your future would be quite so big and far-reaching.
You were born for this, Whitney.
If you haven't accepted that yet, you must do it now. "Claim your chair" and keep speaking about this thing you feel so passionately about...and that you were born to do.
I'm just so proud of you.
Posted by: Laurel | May 22, 2011 at 10:13 AM
Great presentation! I love your focus, and the fact that you have really concrete examples and numbers that back you up. You did a wonderful job. And the jacket is beautiful on you!
Posted by: Lisle | May 31, 2011 at 10:50 AM