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?
I recently revisited Nan Shepherd's masterpiece, 'The Living Mountain'. It is a revelation, a rare gem of nature writing that transforms the act of walking into a profound exploration of beauty, mindful observation, and healing. Initially hidden in obscurity, it has since been rightly celebrated as one of Britain's finest works ever written about nature and landscape. Shepherd's poetic reflections on the Cairngorm mountains are a spellbinding reminder of the wonder that awaits when we slow down, immerse ourselves in the wild, and simply observe.
As autumn’s vibrant colours fade into winter’s quieter tones, nature signals a pause, inviting us to slow down. Winter is a unique opportunity to reconnect with managing stress, find rest, and reconnect. The air grows cold, days shorten, and a blanket of frost covers the earth, asking us to step back, breathe, and embrace the gift of a slower season.
One of the key reasons I was drawn to becoming a therapist is my fascination with the concept of the flow state. I have always been fascinated by how it manifests in the arts and have had the privilege of supporting clients who either access this state effortlessly or face considerable obstacles in doing so. My latest article explores this state - a mental zone where focus, creativity, and productivity come together naturally.
It can be easy to take things personally when public speaking. This post explores the importance of detaching from these influences and offers concrete strategies for maintaining a balanced approach.
