Recently, I had the opportunity to apply to be an Orientation Counselor here at WSU. Regardless of whether or not I get the job, I have already gained so much through the application process.
Never in a million years did I expect to actually go through with filling out the application to be an OC. I kept telling myself “No, public speaking is too scary” or “Oh no, you’ll never get chosen so you shouldn’t even try.” I kept filling my mind with negative thoughts and self-doubt.
With more thought, I built up the courage to at least give it a shot. What did I have to lose? I love being a mentor to others. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experiences with others in the hope that they come away from it with something. I seek out any opportunity to share my love for WSU because this is one of the best places on earth.
So I turned in my application and went to the first interview. This in and of itself made me so happy that I completed the application. I was so scared to go to the interview because I didn’t know what it was going to be like, but I ended up having so much fun. I met so many people during this interviewing process who were all so sweet and open-minded. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything in the world. However, that is not the best thing I took away from this whole experience.
The best thing I gained from that whole experience is more self-assurance and self-confidence. Before, I was very timid and unsure how to act or present myself in a room full of strangers. But, during this interview process, they gave us some age-old advice: “Be yourself.”
Yes, I know, this is a very cliché statement that we all have heard time and time again. Something was different this time, though. This was the first time I felt that every single person around me was truly being themselves. I felt completely comfortable in that environment and I completely opened up and was myself.
All in all, this experience taught me that it is important to face your fears. In my case, it made me a much more secure and happy person. Even if you don’t have a fear of public speaking or you’re mot super introverted like me, it is worth-while to face your fears.
Why? Because if you eliminate your fears (or lessen them), you don’t have to constantly be on the defensive. You can let that wall down and all the anxiety that fear has caused you becomes non-existent. It is a large weight lifted off your shoulders, and trust me it feels really good.
Confronting your fears doesn’t have to be in a big, dramatic way. Doing something small, taking small steps towards the ultimate goal is enough to start feeling the effects that facing your fears has.
Be brave, trust yourself, and face your fears. More good comes out of the experience than bad and you’ll learn so much about yourself in the process. I know it is easier said than done, but it is absolutely worth a try!
