Julie Holunga – The Journey
4th Time’s a Charm
Standing at my desk, I did a quick final check of emails before running out the door. I saw an email from TEDxCherryCreekWomen. I opened it quickly, expecting to read, Thank you for applying. We had an overwhelming number of applicants this year. You were not selected…
I have received that email three times in the past. Thank you, try again.
This time, the email was different. It began… Read the attached document carefully and respond as soon as possible. My initial thought was, This seems like a lot of steps to say thanks, but no thanks.
I clicked on the attached document and this time it read, We are excited to invite you to present at TEDxCherryCreekWomen 2020…We would be honored to have you join us!
I reread that sentence five times, thinking…They would be honored if I joined THEM?
I ran down the stairs, shouting the news to my husband. After 20 years, he is used to my highs, and doesn’t even come running anymore. This time, even he was ecstatic.
My first call was to my mom. I started the conversation with, “Mom, do you know what a TED Talk is?’ Surprisingly, she did, and with a slight impatience in her voice, “Yes, Julie. I do!”
Of course I am elated to join them. Does anyone ever say no to such a highly regarded opportunity?
Applying for a 4th time to a TEDx conference took some convincing. I was about to head out on vacation and it was one more thing on my list to do. My coach, a TEDxCherryCreekWomen alumna herself, suggested otherwise. She convinced me to apply YET again. She said, “You need to be on that stage. People need to hear your message!”
And I listened.
My message is this, for leaders to positively influence those around them, they need to communicate using powerful language. They need to be aware of the unconscious ways they may be sabotaging their effectiveness. One of my personal pet-peeves is hearing and reading influential people using weak language which undermines their impact.
When I told my two teenage kids the good news, my son said; “Mom, this is your Stanley Cup Finals!” (The whole family plays hockey, with the exception of the dog and me.)
The preparation process thus far has stretched me way past my comfort zone, and deep into discomfort. I’ve been so nervous at times; my legs won’t stop shaking under the table. With every meeting and coaching session, I am more excited. Yes, my idea IS worth spreading.
Throughout this journey, I am reminded of the importance of not giving up on the vision I so passionately adhere to. Keep showing up and amazing things will happen!
Here’s the way I see it…my first three applications were the playoffs. The fourth time is a charm. This is my Stanley Cup Final – and believe me…I will be laced up and ready!
