I recently found myself facing another roundtrip flight this past January, just over a year since my last panic attack. Determined to conquer my fear of flying, I decided to follow the advice of a literary agent who found solace in improv classes for her anxiety. I enrolled in a six-week improv course leading up to my trip, hoping that if I could survive the classes, I could surely handle getting back on a plane.
On the first day of class, I decided to wear a brooch to distract myself from my nervous energy. It was a small Macon et Lesquoy hedgehog that I had purchased in Paris, adding to my collection of brooches from travels and estate sales. As I pinned the cute little hedgehog to my sweater, I felt a sense of comfort and confidence wash over me.
As I entered the classroom, my heart racing with anticipation, a fellow classmate sitting next to me leaned in and complimented my brooch. It was a small gesture, but it instantly put me at ease. Over the following weeks, I continued to wear different brooches to each class, earning the nickname “Confidence Brooches.” The simple act of wearing these brooches not only sparked conversations but also helped me break free from my anxious thoughts and be present in the moment.
The confidence I gained from wearing my “Confidence Brooches” extended beyond improv classes. I started wearing them to social gatherings, dinners, and any time I felt that familiar sense of anxiety creeping in. The positive feedback and interactions I received further boosted my self-assurance, allowing me to navigate through challenging situations with ease.
When the time came for my flight to Austin two weeks ago, I made sure to wear a special circular silver brooch with a red stone that had been passed down from my husband’s grandmother. While no one at the airport commented on it, the brooch served as a source of courage as I boarded the plane and settled into my seat. The familiar clunk of the door closing signaled the beginning of the flight, and I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me as we took off.
While my journey with anxiety is far from over, wearing my “Confidence Brooches” has taught me the power of exposure, connection, and self-assurance in managing anxious moments. Whether facing a daunting presentation, interview, or difficult conversation, having a symbol of confidence can make all the difference in navigating life’s challenges. This experience has shown me that with the right tools and mindset, anxiety can be transformed into a mere whisper in the face of the life we aspire to lead. Life may be tough, but with a little hope and a trusty Confidence Brooch, we can conquer our fears and embrace the journey ahead.
