Face off with Intimidation
August has forever held a special place in my heart, brimming with a treasure trove of cherished memories defining my life's best moments.
I was part of a national singing choir during my school and college years. This choir had a profound purpose - to perform patriotic anthems on occasions of paramount national significance, like Independence Day and Defense Day. The intensity of these performances remains etched in my memory.
Picture this: a close-knit group of 25 to 30 spirited young souls congregating daily, dedicating hours to perfect our harmonies. The backdrop of a resounding military orchestra added a sense of grandeur to our preparations. We relentlessly pursued excellence, meticulously weaving together tempo, rhythm, and the intricate interplay of vocal and instrumental nuances. All of this was in preparation for the pivotal moment when we would stand before an audience that included dignitaries ranging from government officials to the very Prime Minister and President of the nation.
Photo by: Pablo Heimplatz
The culmination of our performances was only the beginning of the adventure. After the main event, An exclusive rendezvous awaited us at the Prime Minister's residence - an intimate and lavish hi-tea. Here, the Prime Minister lauded our efforts, sharing his genuine appreciation. We'd engage in light-hearted conversations over tea. At the same time, he gave us premium chocolates, hardcover limited edition books of Pakistan's history and landscapes, and a substantial token of recognition ($$) for our commitment to one of the most significant events in the country. I vividly recall the year I led the group, positioning myself at the forefront during our interaction at the PM's residence. Seated alongside accomplished figures, I conversed with a renowned TV producer, his mentoring whispers dispelling any intimidation I might have felt. He imparted a lesson that would be transformative - that these dignitaries were just like us, separated only by their distinct roles and responsibilities.
This experience marked my initial stride toward dismantling the shackles of intimidation that life sometimes imposes.
Yet, the perks weren't merely confined to the trappings of prestige. Our journey was adorned with delightful encounters - sumptuous meals in opulent hotels. We would have breakfast during final dress rehearsals and the final performance day at the biggest hotel chain in Pakistan. Moreover, the PM gifted us an expedition to the breathtaking northern regions of Pakistan, a vacation replete with luxurious stays and surreal landscapes.
Another incredible aspect of this journey was the profound connections and friendships I forged, which hold an even dearer place in my heart. On our way to the performance venue, we would sing our hearts out, engage in playful games during breaks, and cultivate friendships and memories that I now consider my life's most precious treasures. Being surrounded by individuals from diverse backgrounds gradually eroded the intimidation I once felt towards interacting with people in various settings. That experience effectively chipped away my shyness and apprehension when engaging with others.
Then, I decided to pursue higher education at a university where I could interact with numerous professionals and experts in my field. Many of these individuals enjoyed a status akin to celebrities in their domain. This exposure had a transformative effect, bolstering my confidence to converse effortlessly with almost anyone without succumbing to intimidation. The pivotal factor that led me to this university was the prospect of gaining exposure and firsthand experience in my chosen field.
The essence lies in the power of life's experiences, a force that should never be underestimated as we embark on our personal and professional journeys. Because of the experiences I shared above, and many others, intimidation does not sway me, and that's one of my greatest strengths. It's a skill I honed, not an innate gift. And that is why anyone can do that; you must immerse yourself in experiences and learn from each.
The allure of uncharted territories often remains unexplored, obscured by the shadows of intimidation. My father always pushed us to experience life with wings wide open. His encouragement didn't end with mere exploration; it urged us to learn from each expedition. This blend of curiosity and assimilation proved transformative, rendering life and career more approachable and exciting.
If, at this point, you are saying to yourself, "It's easier said than done," then my friend, you are absolutely right. Exposing yourself to life's experiences is a challenging task. When you step out into the world in such a way, you become a magnet for the universe's spectrum - the sublime and the difficult. There were junctures when I stood at the crossroads, tempted to surrender amidst turbulent times. In those moments, my moral compass, my cherished circle of advisors encompassing family and friends, and the mosaic of experiences carried me through. These experiences are a source of unbridled pride, for they've moulded me into the person I stand as today. And the good thing about adventures is that, if life doesn’t offer you those, you have all the resources and ability to create them on your own. Tap into your inner calling.
So, I want you to summon the courage to traverse uncharted realms, absorb life's lessons, and seize dominion over your destiny. Yet, remember this - it's not about mere travel; it's about immersion, exploration, and evolution.
Don't just travel. Explore...
Bonus Tip: See every problem or tough situation in your life like a work challenge. Brainstorm ideas, construct arguments, research resources, and devise a game plan to overcome troubles, creating an opportunity to grow and improve. Been there, done that. There's nothing more satisfying than transforming adversity into an opportunity. Give it a try sometime.
Micro-Influence for today:
“Regardless of what business you're in, when it comes to sales or deal-making, it's critical that you to build a detailed record of your involvement—not just to use as a last resort in court, but as a constant reminder to all the principals involved that you are/were instrumental in making the deal happen.”
― Robert J. Ringer, Winning Through Intimidation
