"Finding the next word felt like spooning around for a lone raisin in a bowl of porridge." : ) This was a very useful account of your experience Rob. To your point, its been my observation that the people who get the most scared to speak are those with the most useful things to say. And in terms of dealing with nerves I've always found exercise to best the most effective source of grounding when I'm anxious.
Yes, for sure—exercise is such a great way to discharge free-floating anxiety. I have an aunt who coached singers, and she had them run up and down stairs or do jumping jacks before going on stage.
Glad it's useful—hoping to share some things I took the (very) long road to, in hopes others might find it helpful. As always, I'm so appreciative for your response!
Funny, I copied the same line to share here because I loved it so much: “Finding the next word felt like spooning around for a lone raisin in a bowl of porridge.”
Lovely writing, Rob. I felt right there with you in that auditorium. Some very helpful tips here for public speaking. Exercise is massive for me but I rely even more on my breath before speaking in a nerve racking setting. The breath — exhales longer than inhales to relax before public speaking — is an instant portal to a state of calm readiness.
Also love the mindset shift at the end: not trying to conquer anxiety but learning to tolerate it. Such a great reframe, I’m going to steal that.
Amazing, thank you. And I’m with you on the extended exhale—super helpful. That’s actually an upcoming post I’m planning. Thanks as always, and welcome back from the travels!
I guess that's why I hadn't sunk in for me. Good name by the way. Just changed the name of Pivot to the Podium today BTW! Announced it in today's newsletter. Will be rebranding it this week.
Loved this! What a journey you’ve been on. Such a nice demonstration of the multi-pronged approach to battling issues. Medication as a support whilst you try other options too. 🙌🏻
"Finding the next word felt like spooning around for a lone raisin in a bowl of porridge." : ) This was a very useful account of your experience Rob. To your point, its been my observation that the people who get the most scared to speak are those with the most useful things to say. And in terms of dealing with nerves I've always found exercise to best the most effective source of grounding when I'm anxious.
Yes, for sure—exercise is such a great way to discharge free-floating anxiety. I have an aunt who coached singers, and she had them run up and down stairs or do jumping jacks before going on stage.
Glad it's useful—hoping to share some things I took the (very) long road to, in hopes others might find it helpful. As always, I'm so appreciative for your response!
Funny, I copied the same line to share here because I loved it so much: “Finding the next word felt like spooning around for a lone raisin in a bowl of porridge.”
Lovely writing, Rob. I felt right there with you in that auditorium. Some very helpful tips here for public speaking. Exercise is massive for me but I rely even more on my breath before speaking in a nerve racking setting. The breath — exhales longer than inhales to relax before public speaking — is an instant portal to a state of calm readiness.
Also love the mindset shift at the end: not trying to conquer anxiety but learning to tolerate it. Such a great reframe, I’m going to steal that.
Amazing, thank you. And I’m with you on the extended exhale—super helpful. That’s actually an upcoming post I’m planning. Thanks as always, and welcome back from the travels!
Thanks for the mention Rob! Great piece.
Thanks so much, David. Your prompt was really helpful and inspiring. 🙏
By the way, is this a new name for your publication? Or did I just miss it before?
That's been the name all along, though I've only recently committed to more of a weekly-ish publishing schedule.
I guess that's why I hadn't sunk in for me. Good name by the way. Just changed the name of Pivot to the Podium today BTW! Announced it in today's newsletter. Will be rebranding it this week.
Yes! Saw that and love it. Can't wait to be a part of what's coming up next.
Loved this! What a journey you’ve been on. Such a nice demonstration of the multi-pronged approach to battling issues. Medication as a support whilst you try other options too. 🙌🏻