Let me share a story with you—a story about stepping out of the shower and onto the grand stage of life, fully embracing your authentic voice. It’s a journey that transformed not just my performances but also how I connect with others. And the truth is, this isn’t just my story; it’s a roadmap for anyone ready to break through their limiting beliefs and elevate to the next level.
We all have moments when we feel unstoppable—when our confidence is unshaken, and our voice is free. For many, that moment happens in the shower. The steam rises, the water cascades, and suddenly, we’re the greatest singers alive. In that sacred space, we belt out our favorite tunes with unwavering confidence, unbothered by judgment or critique. In that moment, we don’t question our talent, our right to be heard, or whether our voice matters.
But what happens when we step out?
For years, I found myself shrinking the moment I stepped onto an actual stage. Despite being a performer, there were times I held back—letting limiting beliefs muzzle my full expression. And I realized something profound: this isn’t just a challenge for artists. This is a human challenge. In boardrooms, classrooms, social settings, and even our personal relationships, too many of us silence ourselves. We hesitate. We second-guess. We dilute our voices when it matters most.
So, why is it that we can sing like superstars in the shower but struggle to project that same confidence in the real world? The answer lies in our fears—fear of judgment, fear of vulnerability, fear of not being enough.
There were three main obstacles I had to overcome in order to break free:
- Limiting Beliefs: The thoughts that whispered, “I’m not unique,” “I’m not a storyteller,” or “I don’t belong here.” These doubts stifled my ability to connect authentically with my audience.
- Fear of Vulnerability: The idea of standing metaphorically “butt naked” in front of others—fully exposed and real—felt daunting. I feared that if I showed up as my raw, unfiltered self, I might be rejected.
- Hiding Behind Performance: It was easy to perform rather than connect. I could “put on” confidence, but real power came when I let go of the act and spoke from the heart.
Once I recognized these fears, I committed to breaking free. I took deliberate actions to reclaim my voice and, in doing so, helped others do the same.
1. Clearing the Throat (Literally and Figuratively)
I started actively confronting my limiting beliefs. I spoke them out loud, challenged their validity, and replaced them with new truths. I also encouraged others to “clear their throats” by speaking their fears into existence—because once you name the monster, it loses its grip on you.
2. Engaging Others in the Process
I stopped making performance a solo act. I began inviting audience members on stage to sing their favorite songs. What started as a simple icebreaker turned into a shared experience of vulnerability and empowerment. Watching people step into their voices with courage reminded me that we are all storytellers—we just need permission to tell our stories.
3. Embodying My Message
I expanded my communication beyond words. I used my full physicality—my hands, my movements, my presence—to amplify my message. I call this “body-telling.” It’s the practice of letting your entire being become an instrument of expression. The more I embodied my words, the more my audience connected—not just with what I was saying but with the emotion behind it.
Lessons Learned: The Power of Your Voice
This journey taught me some powerful truths about voice, vulnerability, and human connection.
- Your Voice is Powerful: Your vision, purpose, and dreams—none of them mean anything if you don’t give them a voice. When you hold back, you shrink your impact.
- Vulnerability is Strength: True confidence doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from authenticity. The more you allow yourself to be seen, the more powerful your voice becomes.
- Storytelling is Universal: We often think only certain people are “natural” storytellers, but that’s a lie. Storytelling is how we’ve connected, taught, and inspired each other for generations. Your story matters.
- Collective Empowerment Lifts Us All: When we challenge our fears together, we create a culture of courage. It’s easier to break through when you’re surrounded by people doing the same.
Step Into Your Shower Voice
Breaking through personal barriers isn’t a solo act—it’s a chorus of voices rising together. My journey taught me that by unleashing our authentic voices, we don’t just elevate ourselves; we create echoes that inspire our communities.
Your vision is only as powerful as your voice. So step onto your stage—whatever it may be—and let the world hear you.
Let’s lift our voices together.
Until next time,
Sekou
