I remember the time I was asked to be apart of a panel at a women’s summer social event. My self-esteem could not believe that someone actually cared to hear what I had to say. We were asked to talk about our businesses to which I didn’t consider my blogging website one at the time. At any rate, writing was a hobby of mine that I wanted to take more seriously. For some reason, it was hard for me to explain that in front of people aloud.

When asked about the website that I run, I stumbled on my words. Imposter syndrome snuck up on me and gently choked the little bit of confidence I had left in my veins. Then, I continued to beat myself up over and over about how I blew it. Oh, I vowed to never say yes to public speaking again. As terrible as I felt, my friends were there to encourage me by saying I’m more than what took place that evening. My husband, who at the time was my suitor, could not be there due to the event being women only. He didn’t allow that to stop him from encouraging me too once he heard how bad I felt about the job I did that night. One of the many things that I’m grateful for is that he never allows me to speak incorrectly about who I am in God. He always saw me not on a pedestal, but with the lens of God.

Last and certainly not least, God encouraged me that my public speaking is not the source of my identity. How well I speak in front of people does not dictate how much I’m loved, valued, or esteemed in Christ. God loves me just the same and so should I.

This is my encouragement to anyone else feeling down about how you show up in public spaces. Sure, you may be awkward. Who cares if you stumble over your words at times. These are all things that can be worked on and perfected. Always remember that God loves you with all of your quirks and shortcomings. So, never be too hard on yourself and remember to love yourself too!

Be blessed.