“For years, Dr. Abirami Naresh carried a fear that few could notice. She knew she was competent and trusted with critical decisions at The Eye Foundation India, but she often realized that in high-pressure moments, her confidence wavered and her mind raced.”

 She had the knowledge, the skills, and the experience. Yet in important moments, she felt her throat tighten, her thoughts rush, and her voice lose steadiness. And the worst part was that she was repeating herself, not because the point lacked value, but because she lost control mid-sentence.

One ordinary meeting stayed with her more than any dramatic failure could. A clinical review, senior leaders present, a decision to explain clearly. She knew the case. She knew her reasoning. Then came the question:

“Why did you choose this approach?”

Though she knew the answer, her body forgot it. She stumbled, paused, and tried again. A small slip of the tongue disrupted her rhythm. Her voice wavered. She couldn’t recover in real time. The meeting ended quietly, but she walked out feeling she had lost something essential – not the case, but her footing inside herself.

Over time, this became a pattern. Dr. Abi didn’t just fear speaking; she feared the version of herself that appeared when she spoke.