Embracing the Camera: My Journey to Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen
In a world dominated by selfies, live streams, and TikTok videos, I was always the one behind the camera. I loathed having pictures taken of me and cringed at the thought of being on video. For years, I lived comfortably in the shadows, documenting the world around me while keeping myself safely hidden from the lens.
But life has a funny way of pushing us beyond our comfort zones, and for me, it all began when I embarked on my cookbook career collaborations. Suddenly, the need to step out from behind the camera became more pressing. My audience wanted to see the face behind the recipes, the person responsible for the culinary magic I shared.
I’ll admit, it was absolutely terrifying to make that shift. The idea of appearing on TikTok, where the world could watch and scrutinize my every move, was a daunting prospect. However, I realized that in order to build a following and achieve my dreams of helping others through my cooking, I had to confront this fear head-on.
So, I decided to take baby steps. I started by posting one video a day on TikTok. Each time I hit that record button, my heart raced, and I questioned my decision. But I persevered. I also began taking selfies and sharing them on Facebook daily. Seeing myself in pictures and videos still wasn’t easy, but slowly, it started to become a little more bearable.
My TikTok videos weren’t masterpieces, and they still aren’t. However, with each video, I learned something new and experimented with different approaches. Building my following became a secondary goal; my primary aim was to help people through my passion for cooking.
Yes, I could do more, and I hope I will. Stepping out of my comfort zone and putting myself out there is an ongoing process. I gather encouragement and courage from my friends, coworkers, and collaborators who have been my biggest supporters.
Not only do I continue to work on creating my brand,and working with Transforming Teresa Marie, but I’ve also started collaborating with Tonya from “Taking My Life Back at 42.” Her infectious and contagious energy has inspired me even further. I watch their videos, observe their lives, and admire their pictures, learning from their journeys.
I may have the culinary skills, but selling myself as a brand has been a terrifying and major learning curve. Yet, it’s a journey I’m determined to navigate daily. It’s about growing, evolving, and embracing the unknown.
In conclusion, my story is one of overcoming fear, embracing change, and striving to make a difference in the lives of others. As I continue to work on becoming comfortable in front of the camera, I am reminded that growth and progress often happen outside our comfort zones. So, to anyone who feels the way I once did, remember, it’s a journey worth taking, and you’re never alone on the path to self-discovery and success.