Embracing Fear, Feedback, and Taking Action

Welcome to Issue #6 of The Authentic Voice! In this issue, we’re tackling an essential part of storytelling: overcoming fear, embracing feedback, and taking imperfect action.

Let’s dive into the story behind this week’s theme.

The Role of Fear in Storytelling

Fear can stop us from sharing the stories we need to tell. I’ve seen this in clients, in communities I’m part of, and even in my own journey.

Recently, I posted two stories on Threads that went viral, but not without some harsh feedback. 

One story was about taking ownership at work and refusing to let my boss dictate my future. Another involved an interaction with Japanese vintage clothing buyers. 

While the majority of the feedback was positive, the negative comments stuck with me. I was called out, questioned, and even insulted (reseller scum!).

But here’s the thing, fear of criticism didn’t stop me. I kept posting, and those stories connected with thousands. If you want to grow as a storyteller, you have to confront the fear of what others will say.

Taking Imperfect Action

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that waiting for perfection keeps you stuck. Truly, you just need to start.

Whether it’s posting on Threads, sharing a story on social media, or speaking in front of others, the key is to take action, even if it’s messy. 

One of the reasons Threads works so well is that it’s a low-stakes way to practice storytelling without needing to be on camera. It’s simply about sharing ideas, stories, or thoughts, no fancy production needed.

When you share your story publicly, you’ll get feedback, both good and bad. But every time you share, you’re refining your voice and getting closer to mastering the craft.

Crafting Relatable Stories

A great story doesn’t need to be extraordinary to resonate. In fact, the best stories are often the simplest ones that show a real experience and some kind of transformation or realization.

Take the stories I posted on Threads. The one about my interaction with my boss wasn’t world-changing, but it resonated because it showed an everyday situation, standing up for yourself. People related to it because they saw themselves in the story.

When crafting your own stories, focus on relatability. Show the reader or listener a real moment of change. 

And here’s an important tip: Show, dont’ tell! Don’t spell out the lesson for your audience. Let them take away the message for themselves. A great story empowers the listener to find their own meaning.

Handling Feedback: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Whenever you put yourself out there, feedback is unavoidable. Some of it will be helpful, some of it will be laughable, and some of it will sting.

I know firsthand how painful negative comments can be, especially when you’ve poured your heart into a story. 

But I’ve also learned that those comments are part of the process. You can’t let fear of negativity stop you from moving forward.

Instead, embrace the feedback. The positive comments show you what’s working, the constructive words help you grow and the negative ones allow you to develop thicker skin.

And remember, the fact that people are reacting at all means you’ve sparked something.

The only way to avoid criticism is to do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.

~Elbert Hubbard

Celebrating Small Wins

Recently, I had the chance to step out of my comfort zone by participating in my first ever panel at Denver Startup Week.

It was a big win for me, a reminder that every step you take toward putting yourself out there matters.

I’ll share more about this experience in a future issue, but for now, I want to emphasize the importance of celebrating those small wins. 

Whether it’s posting a story on Threads, speaking at a small event, or simply sharing your thoughts in a public space, every action counts.

These are the steps that build confidence and momentum over time.

What’s Your Next Step?

I challenge you this week to share a story, whether on Threads or any other platform. 

Don’t worry about making it perfect. Just take that first step and embrace the feedback that comes your way.

It’s never too late to become a great storyteller!

~Rico