Conquering Your Fears
Addressing Leadership Anxieties
This spooky season, we’re not talking about haunted houses or things that go bump in the night. We’re talking about the real monsters that stalk leaders everywhere—like public speaking, conflict, and hard decisions.
Only recently have I figured out that most people are genuinely terrified of public speaking. I knew it was common—like being afraid of spiders or heights—but I didn’t realize just how deep that fear runs for many. The thought of standing in front of a group makes them quake in their Keds.
For me, though? It’s the opposite. I so genuinely love it.
I get a thrill from realizing that my audience is understanding the point I’m trying to make. I love making a room laugh—or gasp—or groan. Public speaking, for me, is the ultimate introverted extrovert experience. I get to connect with ten or a hundred people at once without the awkwardness of a one-on-one. It feeds my extrovert self while protecting my introvert self.
One of my favorite parts of the spring is building new presentations. I can’t wait to show you what I’ve been working on for you. Preparing, practicing, refining—it’s exhilarating. I want to feel completely comfortable so that you can get the maximum value from the short time we have together.
But here’s the twist: while public speaking energizes me, I get sweaty palms and a racing heart every time I have to have a tough one-on-one conversation. For me, that’s the monster under the bed.
And that’s the point: leadership anxieties are different for everyone.
Some of us dread the spotlight. Others dread conflict. Some freeze when it’s time to make a hard decision. And sometimes the thing that terrifies you is the very thing someone else loves.
So what do we do? We name the fear. We practice the skill. We remind ourselves that fear isn’t a verdict—it’s an invitation to grow.
3 Ways to Face Down Leadership Monsters
Reframe the fear. Instead of seeing your anxiety as proof you’re unqualified, see it as proof that you care.
Start small. Practice in lower-stakes settings—whether it’s a short presentation, a role-played conversation, or a decision with manageable consequences.
Find your counterbalance. Pair what you fear with what you love. If public speaking drains you, recharge with one-on-one mentoring. If conflict terrifies you, build confidence by reminding yourself of the relationships you’ve already strengthened.
The trick is that leadership isn’t about being fearless. It’s about being willing to step into the arena—even with shaky hands or a racing heart.
This October, may you face down your leadership monsters and discover that you’re braver than you thought.
What’s your leadership monster—public speaking, conflict, decision-making, or something else? And what’s one small step you can take to face it this season?
