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The Journey of Finding Confidence Through Improv and Brooches
In January, I took a significant step in overcoming my anxiety by booking a roundtrip flight. This was more than just a simple trip; it marked a momentous occasion just over a year after I experienced a panic attack. Inspired by a literary agent who shared her journey of using improv to manage anxiety, I enrolled in a six-week improv course leading up to my departure. If I could conquer the challenges of six improv classes with strangers, I believed I could also conquer my fear of flying.
To alleviate my nerves for the first class, I adorned myself with a brooch—specifically, a charming Macon et Lesquoy hedgehog that I had acquired during a trip to Paris. Over time, I had started collecting brooches at various estate sales and travels, though I had never fully known how to incorporate them into my outfits. Pinning that delightful hedgehog to my sweater instantly lifted my spirits.
As I settled into my seat for the class, my heart raced, but relief washed over me when the woman beside me leaned in, complimenting my brooch. That small gesture not only eased my anxiety but also sparked a budding conversation that brought a sense of calm I desperately needed.
Throughout the course, I consistently wore a brooch, and each week prompted comments or compliments from my classmates. I fondly dubbed them my “Confidence Brooches,” as they always served as conversation starters. By the end of the six weeks, my fellow participants had come to recognize brooches as an integral part of my identity.
But my Confidence Brooches didn’t stay confined to the improv classroom. I began wearing them to dinners and social events, any time I sensed my anxiety creeping back in. This practice reinforced my confidence, allowing me to stay present whether or not a conversation was sparked by my accessory.
Fast forward to two weeks ago, as I arrived at the airport to fly to Austin, I chose to wear a particularly special Confidence Brooch: a circular silver pin with a red stone that had been passed down from my husband’s grandmother. Although it didn’t receive any comments that day, it symbolized the courage I needed as I navigated through the airport. Walking onto the jetway, buckling my seatbelt, and hearing the door clunk shut were all milestones I conquered, and ultimately, I made it to my destination and back home.
This isn’t merely a narrative about overcoming anxiety; it’s a testament to hope. It underscores the belief that through exposure, connection, and even a small accessory like a Confidence Brooch, anxiety can become a manageable part of life. Whether flying to a new location, preparing for a presentation, facing a crucial interview, or engaging in difficult conversations with loved ones, the strength to persevere exists within all of us. After all, life presents challenges for everyone, and acknowledging that truth is part of our journey.
Source
www.vogue.com