I had the incredible opportunity to speak at CUPE PEI’s regional conference, delivering a 90-minute keynote titled, “Everything You Want is on the Other Side of Fear.” Speaking to an audience of over 660 attendees was both an honor and a thrill, especially given the important roles these individuals play in supporting students and communities across the region.
An Audience of Everyday Heroes
The audience at CUPE PEI included educational assistants, youth services workers, student attendants, workplace assistants, mental health support staff, and a language interpreter. Each person in the room is dedicated to uplifting and empowering others, often facing difficult situations and high expectations in their work. I was moved by their commitment, and I aimed to give them practical tools to face their fears and reinforce their resilience. My goal was to equip them to navigate the constant changes and challenges in their roles with renewed strength and confidence.
Exploring Fear and Building Resilience Together
During the keynote, we dove into a Fear Mapping exercise, a technique that encourages us to acknowledge and break down our fears into manageable parts. Together, we explored the idea that each small step we take to confront and understand our fears can lead us to greater resilience. It was inspiring to see the engagement and openness of the audience as they connected with this exercise and began to see how they could approach their challenges with courage.
The DREAM Method in Action
I also introduced my DREAM Method, a practical framework designed to help people face obstacles head-on. As I walked through each step, I saw how deeply it resonated with the CUPE PEI attendees. Their roles are demanding, and often the small victories go unnoticed—but recognizing and celebrating those wins can be a powerful source of motivation. I was grateful to connect my message to their everyday experiences, showing how these tools could help them stay strong and resilient.
A Memorable Experience
Wrapping up the session, I felt privileged to have shared this journey with such a dedicated and compassionate group. Their dedication to their work is inspiring, and I left the event as motivated as I hope they did. It’s moments like these that reinforce my passion for speaking and spreading this message of resilience and courage.
If you’re interested in learning more about my journey, my keynote, or the DREAM Method, check out my book, Don’t Snooze Your Dreams, and follow along on social media for more insights and updates on upcoming events.
Thank you, CUPE PEI, for the hiring me to work with your audience to connect, inspire, and grow together!
