Starting conversations has always been hard for me. I never know what to say, and I get so anxious, stuck in my head, and drained. For a while, I called myself an “introverted extrovert,” but really, I do love engaging with people, I just let fear get in the way.
There have been so many times I wanted to speak up, to encourage someone, or to simply join in, but I froze. I overthought my words, questioned my value, and let moments pass me by. Afterwards, I’d replay it all in my head and feel like I had missed my chance. It’s exhausting, carrying that constant battle between wanting connection and retreating into silence.
But lately, I’ve been realizing something: fear has stolen enough from me. My passion has always been to help people and make a difference in their lives, but I can’t do that if I keep hiding. At some point, I had to ask myself, at what cost? At what cost do I keep my distance, when community is what my soul craves?
So I’ve decided: I want to be a better communicator, someone who can listen deeply, encourage freely, and speak with authenticity. That means taking steps that scare me. Networking. Saying hello first. Showing up even when my instinct is to pull away. And most importantly, leaning on God for strength. I know He didn’t create me to live in fear, but to live boldly, with love.
And so, this is my testimony: fear is outdated. It doesn’t belong in my story anymore. Community is vital. Communication is powerful. If you’ve ever felt like me, wanting connection but holding yourself back, I want you to know you’re not alone. It’s possible to grow. It’s possible to change.
Break the barriers. Step out of hiding. Start connecting with others in a meaningful, impactful way. You never know who might need your words, your encouragement, or simply your presence.
– JellyBean
JellyBean Business 