What I Learned From Sharing the Stage with a Billionaire

Six months ago, I let out an exuberant sigh. Suddenly, my spine aligned swiftly and I sat up tall. I got up and walked with more vitality. A light bulb went off. I identified exactly where I wanted to go with my business. I wanted to use my voice to speak on stages. Every person I met, I said exactly what I’m looking for.

Plan: Design the life, business, and relationships you imagined.

Then, the call came in. Lora, I want to recommend you for an interview at a charity fundraiser in front of a thousand like minded people. The self doubt rolled in. Am I ready? Is this the right time?

I was scared. That’s exactly why I said yes. It’s the growth opportunity I wanted. This was the audience I wanted to be in front of. Everything I previously did lead me to this special invitation.

As the interview day approached, I asked myself, What was the core message I wanted to share? How can I come across with the energy I wanted to convey?

I practiced what I wanted to say not knowing what questions would be asked.

To ensure I had the energy, I took the time to be well-rested, ate right, and exercised. In addition, I made sure I had body work done so that my muscles were open and relaxed and not tight.

Practice: Prepare with excellence.

The big event came. I put on my dress. And dang. My dressed was ripped. What, how did this happen? Can I get away with it? No. Luckily, I was prepared and brought an extra dress. How prepared are you for when something doesn’t go as expected?

I showed up engaging and curious about everyone there. I brought enthusiasm and excitement to every conversation and with each person I interacted with. I had fun, lightening up everyone I chatted with.

Ryan Long, the event host, called me on stage. It was my time. I was me. I didn’t pretend to be anyone else. I choked up when I started talking about the deaths early in my life. I shared laughs and even challenged Ryan – What are your non-negotiables in life? I discussed why self-care is important. I had fun challenging people to take care of themselves so they can give more.

Play: Have fun while achieving.

If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing. What attitude shift can you bring? Or, how can you bring more play into what you do on a daily basis?

I shared the stage with billionaire founder, Jeff Hoffman, Priceline.com and Les Brown, best motivational speaker in the world, Les Brown. They both shared these same concepts. They’ve turned their profits to then serve.

Plan, Practice, Play, is the model I use to help you think big and play bigger.

Wishing you an abundant, joyful and prosperous day!