Nerves should be your best friend as manager

Reflections from a birthday and TedX filled weekend

Morningggg - I’m currently on the train to London doing some serious reflecting on the weekend I have had.

I turned 29 on Friday, I had a stunning day with loved ones and the sun actually came out here in Manchester.

However, every spare second I had to think, my mind went to ‘you’re going to be stood on the TedX stage on Sunday’.

Now, I’m on a stage talking to a crowd weekly - public speaking nerves rarely get me these days. But TedX was a different beast entirely.

I was backstage physically shaking, and when I heard the host introducing me on stage, all I could think was: ‘This is your last chance to RUN… Heather gooo’

But a few deep breaths later. I walked on stage. Delivered the whole talk as I’d practiced. The crowd clapped and cheered. The feedback was great….

Then I ran off and had a quick cry in the dressing room alone.

It’s Tuesday morning now, almost 48 hours later, and I’m reflecting on all the times in my life I’ve felt as nervous as I did just before going on that stage:

• Breaking up with an ex of 5 years

• Going for my results after a biopsy

• Traveling to London on my own for the first time to go for a job interview at Harrods when I was 21yo

• Asking for a payrise

• Hading in my notice with a toxic boss

• Firing an employee for the first time

All moments that had a huge impact on the direction of my life and who I am today.

‘Nerves Build Character’

This is a phrase my Dad used to say to me growing up. That and ‘it’ll be reyt’ (love you Yorkshire).

Nerves build character

We need nerves. Nerves do not make us weak.