Do you have an event coming up that you’re feeling nervous about? Maybe it’s a presentation, a networking opportunity, or a major life milestone. If so, you’re not alone. Nerves often come when something truly matters to us. Today, I want to share some ideas to help you shift your mindset and approach your event with confidence and positivity.
When you’re anticipating an event that makes you nervous, there are two ways to frame your thoughts:
- What’s the worst that could happen?
- What’s the best that could happen?
Let’s break these down.
Thinking about the worst-case scenario can be helpful — but only as a brief exercise. It’s important to assess potential challenges so you can prepare and mitigate risks.
However, this mindset is a place to visit, not to live. Staying too long in the “worst-case” zone drains your energy and keeps you stuck in fear. Now, shift gears. Ask yourself, “What’s the best that could happen?” When you focus on the possibilities of success, you unlock opportunities for preparation that actually increase the likelihood of things going right. Start thinking of all the steps you can take to set yourself up for success. Inspired by “What If It All Goes Right?” This week’s Front Row Friday message is inspired by a book I recently finished,
What If It All Goes Right? by Scarlet Keys. In it, Scarlet encourages readers to change the way they predict outcomes. Instead of declaring or preparing for the worst, she invites us to ask better questions, like:
- What wonderful thing could happen?
- What beautiful outcome could arise from this?
- What kind and amazing people might I encounter?
If thinking about the best-case scenario feels too far of a stretch, you can start smaller. Try asking:
- What if it doesn’t all go wrong?
- What if something challenging happens, but I handle it with grace?
These are empowering shifts that move you from fear into possibility.
A New Way to Use Your Imagination
Not everything will go as planned. That’s life. But when you spend time imagining the worst, you’re misusing your imagination. Your imagination is a powerful tool that can build confidence and optimism — if you use it wisely.
So, as you prepare for your event, I encourage you to ask yourself: What if it all goes right? Picture the success. Visualize the connections. Imagine the confidence you’ll feel walking out of that event knowing you gave it your best.
On this Front Row Friday, I hope you embrace the mindset of possibility. What if it all goes right? What if you surprise yourself? What if this event becomes the start of something amazing? I hope it does.
