Showing up with presence

A long time ago, a colleague told me that listening to me speak in public was like watching an actor perform.

At the time, I took it as a compliment.

Later, I realised I was hiding behind a mask of performance - a kind of protective shield.

That shield meant I couldn’t be truly present for my audience.

For many of us, especially women, imposter syndrome can make it feel like “presence” requires putting on a mask.

But these days, I believe that true presence is about trusting in who we are, and letting that shine through.

Even if we’re speaking a language that’s not our own.

As Amy Cuddy says, “Presence stems from believing and trusting your story – your feelings, beliefs, values, and abilities.”

I work with many women who don’t yet trust their story. Even though they have an impressive story to tell.

One of accomplishments, talents and a desire to make a difference.

When we present with presence, our message becomes something more than words. It’s not just heard, but felt.

What could it mean to let go of striving to “perform”, and instead bring more of you to the moment?

After all, it’s your message, your story.


Let’s give ourselves permission to be real. To risk discomfort, and, yes…

Enjoy the journey.

Ready to find your voice - and amplify your presence?

Send me a message to book a free discovery chat.

Photo by Liz Pallan Puttathy on Unsplash