Debbie LaChusa

One of the things I've noticed after coaching many solo-professionals is they all have a different comfort level when it comes to marketing and sales. Some people are outgoing and very comfortable networking, taking risks, running with and testing new ideas and just putting themselves and their business out there. Others hate the idea of marketing and selling, they want to have all their ducks in a row before taking a step and the thought of attending a networking event, speaking to a crowd or picking up the phone and cold-calling makes them want to crawl in a hole.

I was in a new business presentation last week and afterward my colleague commented on how comfortable I was in that situation. I realized he was right. But it wasn't always that way. I told him when I first got into business I was terrified of speaking in front of a group - even a group of four or five people. I remember I used to shake and I was sure everyone in the room could hear my heart pounding out of my chest and the quiver in my voice. It's funny how 20 years later, after presenting and speaking to groups over and over again how all of that fear and nervousness has disappeared. And now I truly enjoy sharing what I know with others in presentation situations.

It's all a matter of taking steps to improve your skills, practicing over and over again, and being willing to step through your fear. That's how you learn and get better. And eventually what may have been a weakness no longer is.

What is it about marketing or managing your business that stops you? Are you like I used to be, shaking in your boots every time you have to talk to someone about your business or make a presentation? Or does something else make you want to crawl in a hole? Please share by posting a comment or response. Because the first step to overcoming that fear is acknowledging it.