Lecture Notes: Overcoming Fear and Finding Your Voice

Introduction

• Song Inspiration: "It's Already Done" written for the speaker's younger self, Mariyama, who faced fear of speaking up and being seen.
• Theme: Overcoming fear to express oneself authentically, inspired by Dr. Maya Angelou's quote on finding a safe home within ourselves.

Speaker's Background

• Career: Broadway performer in "The Lion King" and "The Color Purple", singer-songwriter, teacher, and coach.
• Childhood Fear: Severe anxiety around public speaking, noticed first in the fourth grade during a "how-to" presentation.
• Solution: Used creativity (a skit with friends) to overcome fear and enjoyed performing.
• Performing Arts: Safe haven for expression, allowing imagination and creativity to flourish.

Challenges in School

• Cultural Transition: Difficulties in predominantly white honors classes; experienced "psychological safety" issues.
• Struggle with Communication: Despite being safe, felt unable to express ideas in unfamiliar environments.
• Impact of Isolation: Felt disconnected and lonely without familiar peers.

Overcoming Communication Fear

• Therapy: Worked with a speech therapist in college to build confidence.
• Majored in English: Helped bridge gap between fear and desired communication skills.

Understanding Fear of Public Speaking

• Commonality: Fear is universal due to human instinct to belong and survive.
• Survival Mechanisms: Fight, flight, or freeze responses triggered by perceived threats.

Path to Confidence

• Create Inner Safety: Essential for open and impactful communication.
• Framework: Three-part approach to finding "home" within oneself.

1. Breathe Deeply

• Importance: Deep breathing centers and grounds, helping open up the voice.
• Technique: Slow, deep breaths stabilize the nervous system and facilitate calm expression.

2. Use Imagination

• Power of Visualization: Imagination can create new outcomes and experiences.
• Neuroplasticity: Brain's ability to reshape through empowering experiences.
• Practice: Visualize the desired communication style, write and speak it into existence.

3. Seek Support

• Encouragement: Find people who provide positive feedback and accountability.
• Resources: Family, friends, coaches, mentors, presentation classes, or therapists.

Final Reflection

• Self-Belief: Emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself as a path to finding "home" anywhere.
• Key Message: Your voice, ideas, and feelings are valuable and matter.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Embrace your unique voice, take steps towards self-expression, and celebrate progress.
• Quote from The Wiz: "Home is knowing your mind, knowing your heart."

• Reminder: "You are wonderfully made" – embrace your voice and let it be heard.

Note: These notes summarize the speaker's journey from fear to confident communication, offering insights and strategies for others to do the same.