This weekend was one for the books! My final Spring Convention as Texas CattleWomen President. I was able to spend the weekend with a lot of my favorite people, from CattleWomen to work colleagues, it was an amazing time spent with people who all love the Cattle Industry.

One opportunity that CattleWomen have each year at the Cattle Raisers Convention, is to address the entire Convention, not just CattleWomen, and give an update on what CattleWomen are doing. Now, two years ago, I knew this requirement, and I was having panic attacks just thinking about getting up in front of potentially 1,000 people and talking into a microphone on stage. Last year when I did this for the first time, I was super nervous, but I did it and made it through.

This year, I had totally different emotions. Of course I was still nervous, you never want to stumble on the mic, but I was also calm. I knew I could do it. I knew what I wanted to say and I ran through my spill numerous times and I had my notes with me. I stepped onto the stage and gave my report. I had several people tell me I did a great job and I went on throughout the day running the CattleWomen meetings. Knowing, that I did a good job but still feeling like I could have done better. Yesterday, I received a Facebook Message from a very prominent rancher, telling me I did a really good job speaking at the convention. At that moment, I had a bundle of emotions. First, my mind was blown, I was ecstatic, and I finally felt like I really had done a great job.

Two lessons I have learned from this experience.

One – When you face your fears and continue to face them, they become easier and easier to handle. Two years ago, I almost did not run for President because I knew I was going to have to give a talk. The last two years I worked really hard at presenting. Trying to do as many public speaking events that I could so I could be comfortable. Granted, it was still nerve racking but I was may more comfortable on that stage this year than I was last year.

Do the things that make your nerves rattle and watch how it changes your life. One of my favorite things now is to present, especially when it comes to something about the Beef Industry.

Two – Take the compliments and pat yourself on the back. Sometimes we get caught up in our own thoughts. I should have said, I could have done that better.. etc. etc. Instead, take the compliments. I did a great job! Pat yourself on the back. Pause and embrace that moment. Sit in it and enjoy it! Know your skills and what you are capable of before you move on to the next thing.

Today, I am extra thankful to the Rancher that reached out. We all need to do more of this!

As always share some love, we could all use a little more love.
XOXOXO
Casey