Last week, I was a guest on CTVs “The Social”, talking about Social Media.

It was the first time I appeared on national television (“The Social” is similar to “The View” in the US).

The Social is a daily talk show that “gives fresh, daily, perspective on up-to-the-minute news, pop culture, and lifestyle topics”.

For the days leading up to my appearance, I was stressed: Would I say the right things? Would I freeze on live television?

The day I appeared on the show, I decided to “let it go” and enjoy the process.

As a part of my professional services, I write and optimize LinkedIn profiles for Senior Executives. These high-profile, forward-facing brand ambassadors are often nervous talking to me, because most people don’t like to have the spotlight shone on themselves.

What are we so afraid of? Rejection and criticism.

It’s completely normal that we all gravitate towards approval, and fear disapproval. (It’s actually a part of our amygdala and is biologically in place to save our lives.)

At the same time, we can “re-frame” and look at our fears from a different perspective.

Instead of fearing the rejection and criticism, I embraced the opportunity.

I realized that the people watching the show are much more interested in learning new ideas instead of picking me apart. And, if I focused on the fear, I’d be doing a disservice to the people watching.

Instead feeling like you’re bragging, you can re-frame it into passion. EVERYONE wants to work with someone who is passionate about what they do.

(As a side note, it certainly helped a lot that the team at The Social were extraordinarily welcoming. The hosts were delightful and kind, the producer and coordinators know the “tricks” to keep the process flowing quickly so no one has time to get nervous.)

Going on national television certainly pushed me outside my comfort zone, but it was a wonderful experience.  I’m pleased that I pushed myself and now I challenge YOU to do something today that makes you feel like you’re stretching yourself.

Franklin Roosevelt wisely said “The only thing we have to fear is…fear itself — nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.” 

Push yourself beyond your boundaries, and you’ll find on the other side is a renewed sense of confidence in your abilities.

Just remember: “You’ve got this!”

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN. What have you done to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. What did you learn about the process?

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Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, Professor of Social Media, Corporate Trainer and Principal of PUNCH!media

Leslie was called a “Social Media Guru” by CBC Radio and has been working in digital marketing since 1997 and founded PUNCH!media in 2009. PUNCH!media clients include The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and TVO.

PUNCH!media’s goal is to empower through education and help executives gain confidence in their online presence so you convert higher-paying clients.

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About Leslie Hughes

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, Professor of Social Media, Corporate Trainer, Principal of PUNCH!media and author of “CREATE. CONNECT. CONVERT” Leslie was called a "Social Media Guru" by CBC Radio and was featured on CTV’s “The Social” discussing how to manage your digital identity. Leslie has been working in digital marketing since 1997 and founded PUNCH!media in 2009. PUNCH!media clients include Investment Planning Counsel, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and TVO. PUNCH!media's goal is to empower through education and help executives gain confidence in their online presence so you convert higher-paying clients. www.punchmedia.ca