spotlight effect

i read an interesting article in oprah magazine at about the "spotlight effect" ...how many of you have ever felt self-consious, walking into a room, giving a talk or lesson...being in the spotlight? i have many many times...the article said that alot of times we try to avoid embarrassment by just not doing something...but, the problem with this is that we don't become who we could be..how many times have you not worn some outfit because you thought too many people would notice it or not like it? how many times have you known the answer, but not said anything? these are self limiting behaviors...and i have many of them...i've overcome alot..but, still have to work on quite a few..how do we do this? what we have to remember is that when we think everyone in the room is staring at us...most likely that is not the case...we need to act as if there is no spotlight on us..we might need to practice this..but after awhile it will feel natural...and in the long run..so what if we are embarrassed...at least we have tried..we need to realize that we can survive in the spotlight..we need to go out of our comfort zone...and realize that we will gain more positive than negative reinforcement...in the end, people will be impressed by your daring..and want to do the same...so stop hiding and step out into the spotlight!