When humans feel the combination of nervousness and excitement we are nervited.
Our team was feeling nervited last week because we delivered a conference for 600 employees that blended inspirational speakers, peer-learning, good food, and digital creativity. We felt nervous because we knew that at least one thing would not go as expected. We felt excited to share this really special experience with our colleagues.
Channeling nerves is beneficial because stress and struggle are often associated with growth. We rarely learn and develop when things are easy or comfortable.
Excitement is beneficial because contagious enthusiasm fosters psychological safety, improves physical health, and inspires creativity. We are more engaged when things are exciting.
From my perspective, being nervited blends the positivity and energy with cautiousness and uncertainty, which enables the right combination of humility and confidence. More leaders should cultivate the preparedness and optimism nervitedness in their communities.