What Happens When You Say Yes to Something That Scares You?
12 Mar 2026
Published in: Member News
What started as a nerve-wracking challenge turned into a powerful reminder that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. With the right support and collaboration, you can achieve far more than you expect.
What Happens When You Say Yes to Something That Scares You?
Earlier this year, I did something slightly bonkers.
I submitted an application to give a talk for International Women’s Day.
Now, this might not sound particularly unusual to some people, but for me it was a big step outside my comfort zone. I’d volunteered because I wanted to challenge myself and do something different this year. If I’m honest though, I didn’t actually think I’d be accepted.
But I was.
Suddenly the reality hit. I had to stand up and deliver a talk to a room full of people.
Turning an Idea Into a Talk
Like many people, I had lots of ideas about what I wanted to say. Turning those ideas into a structured presentation, however, was another matter entirely.
That’s when I reached out to fellow Black Country Chamber member, Charlotte Davies, from Charlotte the Copywriter, who delivers 1-to-1 Public Speaking Coaching.
When we first met, I arrived with what can only be described as a collection of rambling thoughts. I had a story I wanted to tell, but no clear idea how to turn it into a presentation that would resonate with an audience.
Charlotte patiently listened and helped me shape those thoughts into a clear framework. Once we had clarity around the story I wanted to share, everything started to fall into place.
It’s Not Just About the Slides
One of the biggest surprises for me was learning how much thought goes into the visual side of a presentation.
This wasn’t simply about opening Canva and creating slides. Charlotte introduced me to what she calls “slide psychology” - understanding how visuals support your message, keeping things simple, and ensuring slides enhance the story rather than distract from it.
But the preparation didn’t stop there. We also practised the delivery itself - body language, voice, tone and pace - all of which helped build my confidence ahead of the day.
From Nerves to Excitement
At the beginning of the process I remember thinking, what on earth have I done?
But by the time the day arrived, my mindset had shifted. Yes, there were still nerves, but there was also genuine excitement. I’d decided I was going to enjoy the experience and embrace the opportunity.
Not everything went perfectly. There were a couple of technical hiccups with the slides and the previous speaker overran, meaning my talk had to be shortened slightly. But because I knew my story and had a clear structure, I was able to adapt and focus on the key message.
The Power of Collaboration
What I didn’t expect was the response afterwards.
Several people came up to say they related to the story or that it had given them something to think about. Those conversations led to new connections, enquiries about our accounting services, and even an unexpected invitation for a radio interview.
For me, it was a powerful reminder of two things.
Firstly, growth often happens just outside our comfort zone. And secondly, the power of collaboration within the Chamber network. Working with another Chamber member gave me the support, skills and confidence I needed to step up and share my story.
In fact, my attitude to public speaking has now changed completely.
My question now is simply: When’s the next one?
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