Incredible Research From Harvard: 4 Simple Tools to Conquer Your Fear

A few years ago, I found this study from Harvard, and it changed my life.

It's research about performance, anxiety, and a simple reframing method that you can use to never let fear stop you again.

I’ve been using this technique with my five second rule for years, and the first way I applied it was to get control of my nerves and fear of public speaking.

I’m going to teach you this new method in a super cool way... by taking you on the road, on stage, and behind the scenes with me as I deliver a keynote address to 3,000 people at the convention center in Dallas.

I’ve been wanting to bring you on the road with me for awhile, and this topic allowed me to record this episode live in multiple locations while all kinds of things are unfolding.

There’s even an impromptu guest appearance from a woman whose entire speaking career is about teaching people how to face their fears.

This Harvard-backed technique is so cool because it leverages your body, chemistry, physiology, and neural pathways to your advantage.

The #1 fear most people have is public speaking, but this technique will help you with absolutely everything, whether it’s speaking up at work, giving an incredible presentation, not choking when you deliver the toast at your best friend’s wedding, performing better on tests, or even running better.

Stop letting fear hold you back. Use science not only to reframe your fears into excitement but to conquer them once and for all.

And one more thing. My free, brand new, research-backed training called "Take Control with Mel Robbins" is live and waiting for you. Get 3 incredible video trainings plus a 21-page workbook, and all you have to do is sign up here.

Already a quarter of a million students are taking the course for free.

I’m just waiting for you!

Xo Mel 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• 5:00: I’m always asked how I got into public speaking. Here’s the story.
• 10:15: The question YOU need to ask when someone asks how much you charge.
• 12:15: One of THE best tools to calm your nerves is not meditation (for me), but this.
• 13:30: This is my favorite quote from Charlie Bird Parker.
• 15:15: The wardrobe failure that may have rivaled Janet Jackson’s.
• 16:30: Failure can suck, but the Pratfall Effect says failure can work for you. 
• 19:00: I was so excited to meet this speaker and bestselling author from Venezuela.
• 21:45:  Best journal starter question ever: Are you alive but not living?
• 24:30: Feeling like you never have time? You’re not going to believe this advice.
• 25:30: This was the biggest scary moment for Michelle. 
• 26:45: How does fear give you access to your more authentic life?
• 28:15: Turns out modeling nude is actually a really profound experience. 
• 29:00: Fear might indicate danger OR it might indicate growth. Pay attention.
• 30:00: How can you tell the difference between true intuition and limiting fear?
• 32:30: How do you get over your fear of public speaking?
• 34:00: Feeling imposter syndrome? You’re not alone. Here’s what you need.
• 40:15: Come on stage with me at the Dallas Convention Center.
• 40:40: I’m going to face my biggest fear next year for Oakley’s 18th birthday.
• 42:00: When you do something that scares the pants off you, remember this.
• 44:30: Tool #3 is based on research from Harvard - here’s what you tell yourself.
• 50:00: You don’t feel butterflies when you’re nervous because you’re going to screw up.

Resources and go deeper:

• For Closed Captions: Watch on YouTube and turn on “CC.” For instructions to turn on closed captions, click here.

• Show me the money! Here’s how to ask for the $$$ you deserve. 
• Here’s my favorite quote from jazz great, Charlie Bird Parker. I was close!
• The Princeton Review: 10 ways to overcome test anxiety.
• National Library of Medicine: effect of preparation on anxiety and performance
• I think the Pratfall effect explains why people usually root for the underdog.
• I'm in love with Michelle Poler and cannot wait to check out her book. 
• Find Michelle on Instagram here and her YouTube channel here.
• Think you’re too busy? This theory says add more to your schedule, not less.
• Interested in extra cash as a nude figure model? Here’s how to do it.
• Harvard Business School research from Alison Brooks that changed my life.