Joanna Cronan – The Journey

I saw a post on Facebook from Dafna that was talking about how the deadline to apply was approaching for this year’s TEDxCherryCreek.  I commented on the post that this was a “bucket list” item and Dafna responded that the theme “fearless” was a fitting one for me. 

I thought about applying and immediately made excuses through my internal dialogue of how I couldn’t: I was too busy; I have a lot on my plate.  But then, I reached out to Dafna with a couple clarifying questions: “Do you have to have a large social media following? Do you have to have public speaking experience?” … 

After getting those questions answered and encouragement to apply, I decided to apply.  My internal dialogue changed from “I’m too busy, there is no way I will have the time” to “tomorrow is never guaranteed” & “no time like the present”.  I recorded the short video and filled out the application and didn’t even think twice about it after I submitted everything.

When I got the acceptance letter, I was overjoyed and overcome with emotion.  I remember immediately coming to tears (happy tears).

My mom was sitting next me and asked “What is happening?! Are you ok?!”.

Through my ugly crying I replied, “I got accepted to speak” and we cried happy tears together.

I am so very thankful to have this opportunity to share my idea and my experiences with the TEDx family and our communities.  I expected that it would be life changing and it has proven to be, every step of the way.  This is not another speaking engagement.  Usually, when I must speak, it is usually a business presentation or staff meeting.  This TEDx process has taught me how to speak my truth- not to memorize a motivational speech, not to make a presentation.  It is helping me process my feelings and better self-reflect on what role I wish to fill in my life and others.  This is the best part of this entire journey.

I can prepare presentations, complete with Power Point, in my sleep.  But this TEDx, I am talking about something that changed my life.  I have not talked about this in depth since it happened some 8 years ago.  It has shaped who I am today and something that I have been working through with preparing this talk.  Although incredibly challenging, I am very thankful that I am fortunate enough to share it and my idea with the entire TEDx family and our communities.