How Volunteering at Mass Equipped Me With Skills to Thrive in Groups
“I have the strength for everything through Him who empowers me” (Philippians 4:13).
In the presence of up to a handful of people, I naturally gravitate toward a leadership position. Occupying this role can give the erroneous assumption that I am an innately outgoing person who is happiest when taking center stage. However, in groups of more than about half a dozen individuals, my interpersonal skills are seemingly thrown out the window. In larger group settings, my shyness takes over, and I embody the awkward participant who consciously stands in a corner, intimidated at the thought of introducing myself to a stranger and fearful of the judgment of the people around me.
However, in my current occupation, many tasks involve being able to interact with and manage large groups of individuals. Two techniques I learned as a youth volunteering at Mass have set me up for success in situations that demand confidence and poise in front of a crowd.
Rehearse or Practice in Advance
When possible, take control of the situation in advance by learning the words or actions that you will need to “perform.” The idea is to reduce social anxiety and arm yourself with confidence. Feeling secure in the aspects that you can plan for makes the unknowns that are bound to happen less overwhelming.
When my sister and I first became altar servers in fourth grade, my dad set up props for the chalice and other items to help us practice the motions of our duties at home. Similarly, when I was inspired to go outside my comfort zone and become a lector when I was at university, I would practice the reading out loud in advance.
Now, for aspects of my job that I am able to rehearse in advance, I do. For instance, before leading meetings, I prepare a list of items I want to address. Sometimes, I even rehearse my introductory sentences to give me the confidence boost I need to get through the parts that I cannot fully anticipate in advance.
Say a Quick Prayer Before Starting
Say a version of the short Jesus prayer (“Praise the Lord, Jesus help me”), or briefly ask for courage, wisdom, or whatever attribute you need, using the words that speak to you the most. Short words of petition can go a long way.
My grandmother taught me the Jesus prayer when I was young. I don’t remember the circumstance, but I was telling her how nervous I was about something, and she told me to recite this simple prayer right before I started. I have said versions of these little words many times over the years—before exams, big events, and important meetings. Each time, it helps me find inner peace and strength.
Sarah Gagliano Taliun is a genetics professor with many interests in addition to studying DNA. She and her husband now call Montreal home. When she is not reading a scientific article or meeting with students, Sarah can be found experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, reading her Bible or taking a walk in nature.