Some people find it hard to believe that once upon a time, I was seemingly interminably shy. I had an extremely low level of self-esteem, and it translated into a form of paralysis when it came to social situations. Ironically, it was a love of politics that helped me turn it around. When I was in my mid-twenties, I was approached about running for elective office. I chose to run for Selectman, which in many New England communities is the top elected position. I didn't win, but the upshot of the experience is that I endured a baptism by fire. When I walked into a room full of strangers who were potential votes for me, I was forced to sink or swim. Ultimately, it was my fear of failure that overrode my fear of speaking in public, or even in private.

Ironically, even though I didn't win the race, I feel I emerged from the experience a winner, because it transformed who I am. My level of self-confidence has skyrocketed in the past 15 years, and I no longer go into a situation being fearful of failing. I put my best foot forward and hope for the best.

Incidentally, one critical point to make about communications in general is that 80 percent of all communications is non-verbal. Something to think about.

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