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That's how I felt when I found out that I was in contention for induction into the Canadian Speaking Hall of Fame (yes, there's such a thing). I felt not worthy. I felt not enough. I felt like others deserved it so much more than me. So strongly did I believe this that I considered not even submitting the collateral that they needed to move my nomination forward.
I thought about it hard. I went to the website to see what 'makes' a Hall of Fame speaker. I decided to write out what I had done in my 20-year speaking career under the categories they listed. It took me a week - back and forth, I thought of this and then that, and by the end of the week, I thought holy $&#!, I've done a lot! I was so cool to unpack my career. We are often so busy moving forward, striving to do more, that we fail to look back and celebrate what we did! It was a really satisfying experience.
So, I decided to send it in for review - whether I would be inducted in the Hall of Fame or not, I was happy to have reflected on this wonderful profession.
I was given the great honour to join so many amazing speakers and humans who were in the hall before me. So The Hub and I spent thousands of dollars and flew thousands of miles across the country for what I call my 'Ego Trip' - they could have mailed the award!
The best part of going was being able to honour my Mom, Liliana Scarnati, my family and colleagues/friends who all deserve a part of this award (acceptance speech is below, if you are interested - it was very...unusual!).
One big awareness for me was that I felt worthy of this award when I just looked and what I had done BUT I felt very unworthy when I compared myself to what others had done.
Ahhhh, that dang comparison trap!
So let's...
-Be the best version of ourselves that we can be
-Reflect on and celebrate the accomplishments we have made (personal & professional)
-Compare ourselves only to who we used to be, not to others
-Remember, our awards, degrees, and titles don't make us better than anyone else
-Be grateful to be recognised and bring others up with us
My Laugh/Cry (and very unique!) Acceptance Speech is below...
Stephanie Staples
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