Funny, Not Funny (But Still Fun)🎈

When I’m relaxed, I’m can make people laugh.My boyfriend and I have pee-your-pants laughing jags on the regular.  

But when I started speaking to larger audiences, I knew I'd have to practice being "my relaxed self" in a new context. 

You've had the experience, one minute you’re talking to a colleague about a new idea you’re excited about.Then, as you plan to present it to buyers or gallery, or an auditorium of people — your joy and confidence buries its head in the ground. 

Context is everything. 

And as a coach,  especially as one who asks people to do brave, uncomfortable things,  I know how important it is to create a context where you can just be. 

A space that doesn’t instantly trigger the thoughts:I don’t have the money.I don’t have the time.I’m not ready / talented / worthy enough. 

Believe me, I get it. 

I try too hard. I worry about things I can’t control.I overthink like a champ. 🏆To soften my fear of bombing on stage, I had to turn toward it. 

What better way to do that than to join an improvisation class?!🙀

In the weeks leading up to the improv showcase on Saturday, I spiraled more than once into the belief that:

“If I fail in front of people, it’ll be proof that I’m not ever, ever, ever, ever meant to stand out... in anything... ever again.” 

Not funny. 

But here’s the thing: I had fun. 

Whether or not people laughed, I really had fun.We were all funny together — and not because we were trying hard. 

We were funny because our energy was full of care and play, openness and curiosity.Because fear — in the presence of our playful energy — grew smaller. 

And when I stopped trying to be good, or impressive, or in control, I could actually be present. 

It reminded me (again) that what we often need isn’t more of anything we think we lack. 

We just need to create a new context. 

One that invites us back into trust, play, and choice. 

What is the context you are creating from today? 

 If it's not fun at all, if it's not getting you the outcome you desire, celebrate that awareness!  

Now you can do the work to get back to play and curiosity and on the path of getting the outcomes you truly desire.