In the mid 80's, I attended a life-changing training called The Empowerment Workshop, where I learned the concept of a "growing edge". No longer such a novel term, "growing edge" simply refers to a challenge that makes you feel excited and wanting to move ahead while also feeling a bit scared and hesitant at the same time.

I recently encountered a growing edge I'd like to share.

A phone message came in on a day that was full with client appointments with little time to devote to anything else. Still, I was intrigued by the caller, a news director at a local tv station who asked if I’d be interested in taping a few interviews for a new very early (as in 4:30am) morning news program as an area expert on work.

I felt exhilarated and anxious at the same time--it's one thing to speak to an audience, another to be on camera with bright lights--letting me know that I'd come up against a growing edge. Given the potential for personal and professional growth this opportunity presented, I knew what I had to do: Not let my fear get the upper hand and step out of my comfort zone.

What I had learned in the training many years ago, still holds true today: If you focus on your fear, you are not likely to explore what's exciting about the growing edge. I decided to be open and take this one step at a time.

First, I said yes and thank you to the invitation. Fear was at my heels, so I addressed the concern about being prepared by meeting with a media trainer and rehearsed a couple of mock interviews. That helped. Next, I asserted some control and sent in a few interview questions and viewer tips that I hoped the station might decide to use during my interview. I received a good response from the producer and felt even more at ease. Then I tried to put it all aside until the day of the taping.

That was two weeks ago. This morning, I awoke early, obsessed a bit over what to wear, and headed for the television studio for my tv debut. I reminded myself of a suggestion I often make to clients approaching an interview: identify three words that describe how you want to be in the interview and use them as mantras for that day. "Calm, engaging and articulate--yes, those would be my mantras", I said to myself as I drove off for the tv studio.

I've had a chance to reflect on this morning's experience, but see that I'm maxed out on words on this blog, so please stay tuned for part II! I promise the next installment this weekend.