Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills in today's professional world. Whether you're presenting to a boardroom, speaking on a panel, or delivering a virtual talk, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently can open doors to new opportunities. Yet, for many, the mere thought of standing in front of an audience induces anxiety.
For those who live with anxiety, are neurodivergent, or feel the weight of societal expectations, 'masking' can feel like a shield. It's the act of blending in, suppressing the parts of oneself that feel too 'different' or 'much' in order to fit a mould. Masking can be a survival tool, a way to navigate environments where we fear rejection or misunderstanding. It can give us temporary relief: "If I just act like everyone else, I'll feel safe." And, our nervous system spends a lot of time looking for signals in our environment that tell us it is safe. Masking can also be exhausting, alienating, and denying our most authentic selves. Over time, it chips away at authenticity, leaving us wondering: Who am I beneath the mask?
