NOT TOO FAR, JUST FAR ENOUGH

Psychologist Alison Wood Brooks conducted a series of studies on performance anxiety.

She wanted to understand how people respond to stressful situations, such as singing in front of others. One of her experiments involved asking participants to sing Don’t Stop Believin’ in a private room.

What mattered wasn’t the singing itself. It was the willingness to do something just outside their comfort zone.

This idea – pushing yourself slightly beyond what feels safe – is a powerful way to grow.

In public speaking, you don’t need to stand on a big stage to get better. Most of your progress will come from the everyday moments – team meetings, project updates, small discussions – where you can practise in real conditions.

Aim to stretch yourself by about 15%. Not a huge leap. Just a small step beyond what feels safe.

Maybe that means speaking up in a meeting. Asking a question. Testing a new way to open your next presentation.

That 15% stretch zone is where growth happens. And over time, that zone becomes your new comfort zone.