This week we talked with Jenn Lo, Program Management Office (PMO) Program Manager, about how she tackled a personal fear in her journey to be her best self. She was gracious enough to share her story.

If you have ever met Jenn or attended one of her PMO Lean workshops, you may be surprised that she shares something in common with up to 75% of people: fear of public speaking. Her personal growth mantra last year was to “go from good to great.” To push herself out of her comfort zone she told a personal story on stage, under a big spotlight, in front of a live audience. Leading up to the opportunity, in a “Story Jam” hosted by Beyond Borders Storytelling, she “chickened out” many times, until the one day she didn’t. 

What compelled you to take this risk?
I’m always working on personal development and self-improvement. I often teach in small groups, and I don’t know if I would be ready to speak at a national conference or for a broader audience. I want to be ready. I don’t want to pass up opportunities or not have the confidence for bigger speaking engagements. I needed ways to help me get out of my comfort zone. I put myself out there for the first time at a UCSF craft fair, where I was practicing getting out of my comfort zone. I was talking to shoppers about these mini journals I was selling, and another seller overheard me and complimented my storytelling. Someone who doesn’t know me called attention to a skill I didn’t think I had. That authentic moment from a stranger inspired me.

Why do you care about storytelling? 
I care about the emotional connection storytelling has to bring people together. As a coach, I often reflect back the stories that people tell themselves or each other about a situation.  Emotions help people remember a moment in time and give it meaning. 

How do you feel different now than before you took on this challenge?
I’m not exactly sure why I chickened out multiple times. Even experienced speakers can find it hard, but I did it. I would never have believed I would do something like this, under a big spotlight with 100 people laughing with me and clapping for me! Even after forgetting my lines for a bit and that it wasn’t a “perfect” performance, it was not the end of the world. I’m still here, and I'm okay!

Take charge of your development and the future of your career with HR Learning & Organizational Development's Professional Staff Development program, held April 25 to May 23, 2019. The five-part series for non-supervisory staff covers 10 competencies that are essential to succeed in any job. Through in-class activities, discussions, assessments, and on-the-job assignments you will acquire the knowledge and develop the skills to identify your strengths as well as opportunities for improvement to grow professionally. 

You like good news, and we want to share more of what’s good in 2019 with our FAS community. One Good Thing is the “cookie jar” of emails: open it up for a quick, sweet break in your week! Every Wednesday, we’ll share One Good Thing happening in FAS.  

Check out last week's One Good Thing: Your Health Help Team