Stepping onto a stage, whether it’s to perform in a play, act in a commercial, or deliver a speech at a business conference, has always been an exhilarating experience for me. Having studied acting in college and being part of several plays, I discovered that the thrill of live performance is unlike anything else. The energy coursing through the audience, the anticipation in the air – it’s a unique and addictive feeling that keeps me coming back.
My time in Los Angeles, participating in commercials and short films, added an extra layer to this excitement. The fast-paced, dynamic environment of the entertainment industry made every moment on set an adventure. The challenge of embodying different characters and conveying emotions authentically was both fun and rewarding. The element of the unknown, the slight nerves before the director calls “action,” all contribute to a sense of being alive in the moment.
Transitioning from acting to public speaking at business conferences might seem like a leap, but the core motivation remains the same. The thrill of engaging with an audience, the joy of sharing insights, and even the slight nervousness before stepping onto the stage are constants. Whether I am playing a character or presenting business ideas, the stage becomes a canvas for self-expression and connection. The blend of excitement, fun, and just a touch of nerves makes each performance a unique and memorable experience, reminding me why I continue to embrace the stage with enthusiasm.
I recently gave a talk at a major conference in Boston. Two actually. The first went off without a hitch. My co-presenter and I delivered the topic as if it were our job, which in fact it was. But the second presentation was rough. Many of my co-workers and managers were in the audience. During my section of the talk, I lost my train of thought, developed dry-mouth syndrome, and started seeing double. Consciously or not, I summoned the internal wisdom to mentally step back and pause. And here is the lesson – when acting on a stage or set, presenting at a conference, or speaking in front of co-workers and strangers, do not let go of yourself. Keep a small but fiercely dependent presence in your mind so you remain grounded.
Good Luck and “Break a Leg!”
Bird's Bytes 