From “I Can’t” to “I Did It” Thanks to Self-Empathy

This week I had a classic "I can’t do it" moment… right before heading to my first big networking event to share Communication for Connection with business owners.

I woke up with that familiar knot in my chest that shows up when something’s not right inside. The stories floating around in my head were:

“I’m not ready. I don’t know what to say. What if they reject me? I have nothing worthwhile to offer.”

Instead of pushing through or beating myself up, I paused and used Communication for Connection… on myself.

I named what I was feeling: anxious, scared, vulnerable, apprehensive.

Then I connected to the needs underneath: connection, acceptance, emotional safety, self-worth, community.

Once I gave language to what was really alive in me, the judgy stories quieted. The knot started to loosen. I wasn’t asking something easy of myself. Networking is hard, especially when self-promotion doesn’t come naturally to me.

But I reminded myself:

Yes, I’m scared.

Yes, I’m putting myself in a vulnerable situation.

AND… I have something valuable to share — I just proved it to myself by showing up for me first.

That self-empathy gave me the breathing room I needed. I prepared what I wanted to say, went to the event, talked with 6 people… and no one told me I didn’t belong. 😊

If you’ve ever had that knot before putting yourself out there — whether networking, asking for the sale, or just speaking up — know that this process works. It starts inside.

Would love to hear: What’s one situation where self-doubt shows up for you as a knot or a story?

#CommunicationForConnection #SelfEmpathy #Networking #WomenInBusiness #HonestRelationships