Public speaking. Stage performance. Microphone in hand. Spotlight blazing.
For some people, this is where they come alive—like Beyoncé stepping out for a world tour.

For me?
The only “stage” I’ve ever conquered is the one at work, standing in front of my colleagues while pretending I’m not sweating through my scrubs.

It’s funny because whenever people ask, “Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?” I immediately picture myself dramatically fainting like those old Nollywood characters. The truth is:
I am not a stage performer.
But I do unintentionally give performances—just not the glamorous kind with applause and red carpets.

My Accidental Workplace Performances

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not shy. I’m simply… selective with where I showcase my “talent.”

At work, however, I have no choice. Whether I’m presenting an update during a meeting, giving a quick in-service, or explaining something to the team, suddenly all eyes are on me. And bam—there it is: my stage.

And let me tell you, I put on a show!

1I wave my hands, I talk with animated expressions, and sometimes I accidentally crack jokes that I didn’t even plan. My colleagues laugh, I laugh, and for a moment, it feels like a mini-comedy special in the unit.

If you’ve ever seen me explain a complex patient situation using hand gestures, sound effects, and facial expressions, you would think I trained under a Broadway director.
Spoiler alert: I did not.

The Funny Part?

Outside of work, you will NEVER catch me on anyone’s stage. Not even a tiny one.

Choir solo? No, thank you.
Drama group? God forbid.
Wedding toast? Please don’t call my name.
Public speech? I will disappear like the rapture happened.

But somehow, in the middle of the unit, surrounded by monitors beeping and colleagues watching, I transform into a whole performer without even trying. Maybe it’s the comfort of familiarity. Maybe it’s because I know my audience. Or maybe… It’s just survival instincts.

A Lesson in Confidence (and Comedy)

The funny thing is, those small, everyday “performances” count too.

They’ve taught me that you don’t need a stage or a microphone to speak boldly. Sometimes your true voice shows up when you least expect it—like in a huddle meeting, a shift report, or while demonstrating something you’re passionate about.

You don’t have to be a public speaker to be heard.
You don’t have to be a performer to make people smile.

Sometimes, being your natural self—humorous, expressive, and a bit dramatic—is more than enough.

Final Thoughts

So, have I ever really performed on stage or given a speech?
Not officially.

But if you ask my colleagues, they might say I give performances every week—unpaid, unscripted, and unintentionally funny.

And honestly?
That’s a stage I don’t mind standing on.