Today, there is no doubt that videos are taking over. They are everywhere! It’s amazing to know that you can impact the world just by using a simple tool that’s in your hand at all times.
Do you want to speak on camera and get your videos out there, but there are a lot of fears in your head? I’ve been there. Let me share with you three things that stop people from becoming comfortable on video and how you can overcome them:
1. The awkward feeling of speaking to an inanimate object.
I remember shooting my first video in a dark basement. I had no lights or mic, only a camera. I started recording a few videos and while I’m staring at it, I began to think, “Is this what it feels like to lose your mind?”
When dealing with public speaking, it’s all about connecting with the audience. You can see their faces and it gives you the energy you need to go on. But when you’re doing it by yourself with only a camera in front of you, it’s a very different scenario. When you’re taking videos, no one is watching. You’re sitting there talking to an inanimate object and you will start feeling awkward and uncomfortable.
One thing that helped me with this is imagining that I’m speaking to my ideal client. I imagine looking at one person and speaking to him directly. It was a great way for me to shift my focus on the awkwardness of staring at the camera lens.
But one problem that came up to me before was having a camera with a little viewfinder. It distracted me that I end up staring at it and then looking back at the camera. That’s why I recommend to just speak directly to the camera.
Another trick I’ve used is taking pictures of my clients and sticking them below the tripod as a visual reference. Doing so leads to a better connection and helps you feel comfortable. No more awkwardness!
2. The possibility of embarrassing yourself.
Videos aren’t going to be great at the beginning. You may say, “My videos will be out there forever! What if I embarrass myself?”
There was a time when I had over 200 videos recorded and uploaded on YouTube but I’ve never put one public. I kept on thinking, “What if it ruins my brand? What if it’s counterproductive? What are people going to think?”
Your videos will be out there forever and your first videos are going to be your absolute worst. With that being said, it doesn’t sound very encouraging to get started. But the question you need to ask yourself is “How can I shift this?”
When I started the “Art of Confidence Speaking” show, my first videos were rough. The audio and lighting were off. It was terrible and I knew that, but I put it out there on purpose. I know that some people are going to watch these videos and they’re gonna judge me, but the bigger win is in me knowing that there are so many technical issues with my videos and still overcome the hurdle to put myself out there.
When you can put videos out there that you know aren’t perfect (nevermind perfect, they’re not even very good!) but you still get started, that is a bigger internal win for your inner confidence that will propel you moving forward!
There is always going to be “the lighting’s off, the mic’s off, the background’s off,” or you weren’t in the right mood. There will always be factors that will hinder you from getting your videos out there. The question is, “Will you allow those things to stop you, or are you going to put yourself out there and go for it?”
Another way to look at it is the fact that since it’s going to be out there forever, you will be able to document your rise. How you started will be documented for you to see. As you move forward and as you start building, they’re only going to improve. Yes, it may feel uncomfortable, but it’s also for your good.
If you keep on saying no to yourself, you will miss a massive opportunity to document your progression. Aside from that, you will also miss the opportunity to be a good role model. When you put yourself out there, other people are going to see you. When you start, you can improve your skills and become more confident. When they go back and watch your first videos, they will be able to relate to your experiences. They will know that awkwardness at first is normal because they can eventually improve their skills, just like you!
A video is such an amazing opportunity to get your message out across the entire world, 24/7. It’s an awesome way for people to be inspired, which is a part that you play as a role model. Once you dare to put yourself out there despite your fears, people will know that and see your progression. That’s the biggest gift you can give – to inspire others and tell them “let’s get going.”
3. The fear of watching yourself on video.
Watching your videos is an absolute gift. It may be uncomfortable at times, but it will help you grow. Putting out videos without watching them is counterproductive. You need to watch it! If you don’t, you won’t be able to see if you did well and what you can improve on.
However, the danger comes when you start focusing on the million things you hate about it. You hate the way you look, the way you speak, or what you wore. These are all fine. However, what you need to do first is start with the things you did well. The first question is “What did I do well?” and the next question is “What will I improve?” Start with your wins because those are things that will build your confidence and help you to keep moving forward.
The fear and resistance from watching yourself on video are directly proportionate to the inner critic inside of you. The more critical you are, the harder it will be for you to watch yourself. Don’t run away. Face your fears. Watch your videos. Go straight at it! Laugh at your mistakes. These are the things that will propel you to become the most confident version of yourself.
Become Your Best Self; Start Now
What is the biggest fear that holds you back from becoming confident on video? Shift them around. The more self-love you show to yourself, the faster your progression is going to change.
What are you waiting for? Whatever excuse you have only delay what needs to be done. The faster you start, the faster you are going to progress and become your best self. So get started today, share your voice and make an impact.
Do you want to know more? Learn about How to Become Confident on Video in our Confident On Camera Coaching Program