the hats we wear
This morning I attended a women’s networking event and I LOVED IT. Here’s why:
I was nestling into the couch at 8:36AM. I’d just finished drop-offs, my kitten was purring next to me, my iced tea in reaching distance and my book in hand. This was where I planned to stay until I absolutely couldn’t any longer…until I got a “running 15 minutes behind; see you there!” text from a girlfriend. Huh?!
“See you there”, girl, see me where?!! It was then I recalled signing up for the event and transparently told her I’d hurry, but I’d be late. Seattle is close to home, but not when you’re in sweats and haven’t even brushed yet…
I walked into the room at, oh, 9:30? Oof. (9AM start time, but at least I got a great parking spot!) The speaker, Montana von Fliss greeted me warmly and even encouraged me to grab a coffee. She oozed understanding and I appreciated it.
As I settled into the moment, I was able to chill tf out and take in the room, especially Montana. She was so natural in front of all these women. I found myself wondering if I seemed as comfortable when I’m in her place. Montana spoke on confidence. Here are a few of my favorite takeaways:
Authenticity reads as confidence
There is power in the pause
Mindset Reminder: what is constructive, true and within my control?
I was happy jotting down nuggets of wisdom beside my friend Ellie… until I heard my name. Ahhh!! My anxiety is directly connected to my tear ducts and so when the nerves kick in, I have to stop my eyes from watering. Me to me: “You’re not being attacked by a lion right now, babe, you’re just being a human in front of other humans…”
Montana had me come to the front of the room and introduce myself in three parts: my name, what I do and what I love about what I do. My first attempt was awkward, to say the least, but I got there. Montana coached me real-time and had me try once again. She spoke only to me, whispering in my ear, “You’re an artist: pretend you’re on stage, this is your audience, you have your guitar, your microphone… now introduce yourself with THAT energy".
The shift was wild. My salutation was concise, interesting and totally genuine. I’d never considered channeling the flow-state version of me in situations apart from stage. Today I discovered I can close my eyes and so clearly see the lights, hear the people, feel the energy and then adopt that energy into my current moment. The concept is just so helpful and a tool I’ll definitely use. *Thanks Montana!*
After the speaking portion, we were encouraged to network and I got to practice introducing myself, and met a few women I could see myself doing meaningful work with.
What a lovely morning. I hope you keep learning, growing, stretching, observing and staying curious. I hope you attend the meet-ups, put yourself out there, build the business and keep trying.
There’s so much hope. Show up late, show up anyway.
I love you!
-KR