Recently, I realised the reason why I suck at communication is that I've spent most of my life withdrawn & in my head. 

Growing up, there were no conversations with Mom and Dad because they were barely home, hence my immense struggle with communication. When my stepdad came on the scene, he always said, "Think before you speak," whenever we had something to say, but somewhere along the line, my brother and I got stuck overthinking.

Now, I can have all these wonderful conversations with people in my head after the fact, but when I'm with them, I struggle with awkward silence because I don't remember what I want to say. I seriously need to get unstuck so I can fully step into my purpose and embrace the abundant life Jesus came to give me.

I want to master communication skills, not just for myself but also for my community and my jobs. I aim to become fluent in expressing my heart and mind.

Last week, I attended a 3-day boot camp for the Maxwell Leadership World Class Communicator coaching.

I quickly realised this was just the training I needed to improve my 

 •  Storytelling skills

 • 1-on-1 communication skills

 • 1-on-1 in small groups communication skills &

 • 1-to-many on-stage communication skills. 

However, I had just invested all my savings in another course to help me eliminate my limiting beliefs, so I didn't have the finances for this course either. Then, during the Q&A on Friday, I remembered that I had won the Day 1 Homework prize. I mustered up the courage to ask if they'd be willing to swap the iPhone for access to the course, so now I'm all in with coaching starting next week. It also includes access to John Maxwell's 16 Laws of Communication. The next 6 weeks will be a roller-coaster ride as I once again step outside my comfort zone to face the fear of public speaking.

What does it mean to be a world-class communicator?

A world-class communicator:

• Creates deep, meaningful connections,

• Speaks with unwavering clarity and conviction,

• Sparks transformative action through their words.

But their impact goes far beyond the stage—

• It's felt in every interaction,

• They leave a trail of trust and value wherever they go.

For them, communication isn’t just about being heard; it’s about making others feel:

• Truly seen,

• Fully understood,

• Genuinely empowered.

As I share this, I'm both excited and apprehensive at the thought of doing this, but I'm looking forward to the challenge so I can add more value to those in my sphere of influence.🎉🎊🥳