What do you do if you're struggling with self-doubt in the live events industry?

It's easy to get overwhelmed with the massive amounts of decisions needed when planning and executing a live event. We often make decisions because we have to pick from the checklist and "hope" everything comes together for a successful event. Assembling the pieces (decisions) this way is like trying to assemble a complicated puzzle without a picture for reference. If you start with your final objective or outcome in mind, you can confidently make every decision fit that goal. Don't even consider options that don't strongly support your desired outcome and you will alleviate the doubt that comes from too many choices. Knowing that you are making the best choice for a specific reason eliminates second-guessing yourself.

Acknowledging your self-doubt is especially crucial when working as a freelancer. As a moderator I constantly have doubts about my abilities. I always like to remember that I am watching myself much more closely than others do. In addition when looking at myself I am oftentimes emphasising the bad things. In such situations I simply try to list what I am doing well. It is of course important to be realistic and acknowledge things that were not perfect. By listing bad as well as good traits or aspects of my work I try to gain a balanced view. This shift in perspectives also empowers me to tackle negative thoughts.

Reaching out to others is a superpower! I was initially scared to tell others about my failures. But once I actively offered guidance to my colleagues I was able to then switch perspectives and build a trusting relationship. It can be scary to carry your own perceived shortcomings into the world. By actively engaging with those of others I found that I admired the courage of these people. This led me to follow in their footsteps.

If you are in a constant state of acceptance and flow, you are freely able to learn and grow in a fast-paced industry. Professional networking AND development go hand-in-hand. Ask then LISTEN. There are more people willing to share than you think.

I certainly visualize success and everyone happy. On one occasion while on stage to do a presentation all the tech went out. I had a 45 minute presentation. I laughed and said let's do this old school. The presentation was covering all the benefits of the company. Well it was best outcome I ever had. I shortened it and answered questions, gave real life examples. The audience was animated and jovial.