173. Why You Hate Being Put on the Spot - How to Stop The Panic And Stay Confident
Mon Feb 02 2026
Ever been put on the spot and felt that panic?
Even experienced professionals can dread unexpected questions and issues which they havent been able to prepare for.
In this episode, we unpack why being put on the spot feels so awful - and how it’s less about the moment itself and more about your confidence cycle.
You’ll learn:
Why your brain reacts with fight, flight, or freeze when surprised at work
How low-confidence cycles make you overthink, over-prepare, or shut down
The key mindset shift confident professionals use: trusting their overall competence, even when they don’t have all the answers
Practical ways to shift your confidence cycle and stay calm, instead of panic
If you struggle with public speaking anxiety, being caught off guard at work, or fear of looking incompetent, this episode will give you tools to handle any unexpected moment with more confidence.
Want to be more Confident At Work?
Start here: take our free: Confidence Assessment
Get private support to feel confident at work - book a call to explore private coaching
Explore and join the Confident At Work Membership
Cover art by Jacob McFadden
Theme song by Melissa Carter @ Making Audio Magic
More
Ever been put on the spot and felt that panic? Even experienced professionals can dread unexpected questions and issues which they havent been able to prepare for. In this episode, we unpack why being put on the spot feels so awful - and how it’s less about the moment itself and more about your confidence cycle. You’ll learn: Why your brain reacts with fight, flight, or freeze when surprised at work How low-confidence cycles make you overthink, over-prepare, or shut down The key mindset shift confident professionals use: trusting their overall competence, even when they don’t have all the answers Practical ways to shift your confidence cycle and stay calm, instead of panic If you struggle with public speaking anxiety, being caught off guard at work, or fear of looking incompetent, this episode will give you tools to handle any unexpected moment with more confidence. Want to be more Confident At Work? Start here: take our free: Confidence Assessment Get private support to feel confident at work - book a call to explore private coaching Explore and join the Confident At Work Membership Cover art by Jacob McFadden Theme song by Melissa Carter @ Making Audio Magic