Getting Comfortable With the Uncomfortable

They say to do the things that scare you. Well, I did that today.

This morning, for the first time, I spoke at one of my daily morning coordination meetings to give our team’s update. My project manager could not make the meeting, so I had to speak in his place. Part of me wanted to do it just to get it over with, knowing that the time would come eventually.

However, I am rather soft-spoken, so projecting my voice to a group of people in a very loud environment was nerve-wracking. I nearly started shaking, but I did what I needed to do, and I am proud of that.I gave myself a little pep talk, convinced myself I could do it, and walked in chest proud.

I would say that I'm more introverted but that I possess extroverted qualities too. I don't really enjoy having the attention in the room or all eyes on me. At the end of the day, I prefer to spend time alone to recharge for the next day — it's nearly impossible to get me to be social after work. But on the other hand, while I'm at work, I need to be social. For example, right now I don't have an office. My desk is by itself in the open area, so I always go into the office with my PM and the two other APMs to work with them in there so I don't feel lonely or left out.

Being more introverted has presented some challenges over the years, especially in terms of public speaking. Some people are fueled by capturing attention in the room, but that is basically my worst nightmare. Now that I'm in a role that is communication-heavy, I need to learn to overcome that fear. I think being introverted has made me unique because when I'm quiet, it gives me an opportunity to sit back and observe others and take in all the details, which I think some people miss.

I think the most misunderstood thing about introverts is that we're antisocial. I do like to be social, but it does have to be on my terms. Also, being shy and being introverted are two separate traits, although they often go hand-in-hand.

Public speaking in that setting for the first time definitely built some level of confidence for me. It is still not something I am excited about or would look forward to doing, but I proved to myself that I am capable of speaking to a group of men in this capacity. It’s time to get comfortable doing the uncomfortable.

About the Author: Emily Friedman is an assistant project manager in the industrial equipment installation/rigging sector. She says she loves the progress that is made on her project every day and that she enjoys seeing ideas and drawings come to life.