Many leaders appear calm and capable on the surface, until it’s time to speak in front of others. That’s where Alex, a steady and conscientious manager, struggled most.

Leading projects came easily, but the moment he had to present or speak publicly, confidence wavered, and anxiety took over.

In this story, I share what was really happening beneath the surface, and how a few surprising shifts helped Alex move from overthinking and self-doubt to composure and clarity when it mattered most.

Have you ever found yourself caught in an endless loop of thoughts, struggling to break free? It’s a familiar sensation for many of us—those moments when our minds race uncontrollably, leading us down the dark alley of overwhelm and anxiety.

I remember a time when I was 24 and stepping up in my career, preparing for an important interview. The night before, I lay in bed, replaying every possible scenario in my head, from forgetting my main points to fumbling over my words. As the minutes turned into hours, sleep eluded me, and my anxiety grew heavier. At that moment, I felt trapped in a cycle of overthinking, unable to see a way out. - Sound familiar?