Many people, upon reaching their golden years, establish a daily routine, engage in activities they are comfortable with and avoid activities that may cause stress in their lives. Vera Koo does not fit in the category of “many people.” Instead, Vera is constantly partaking in events that force her to step outside of her comfort zone.
In 2019, Vera began stepping outside of her familiar routine and placed herself in the public eye. She knew then that what she said may influence and affect those listening to her.
“I thrive on pressure and deadlines. I need something to keep me going, to keep my interest. I need something to work toward. Most importantly, I never want to be someone who succumbs to her fears. You feel better after you stand and face them.”
Vera recalls events from many years ago that helped her accept the challenge of becoming a mentor in the firearms industry. She made the decision to transition from a student to a teacher whenever the opportunity arises in “How to Become a Public Speaker and Influencer.”
An opportunity to give back to the shooting sports and mentor women at the same time pushed her outside of her comfort zone. Vera inspired the next generation of shooters when she accepted the role of mentor in an episode of “Love at First Shot.”
“I am not a natural on television, nor do I feel comfortable serving as a teacher. My personality is much more suited to being a student. However, I have gained so much from this sport, and from mentors who helped me, that I knew I must embrace the chance to inspire the next generation of shooters.”
Read Vera’s recollection of filming the show and find out how the contestants inspired her in “Love at First Shot: Vera Koo, the Shooting Sports and Mentoring.”
Vera admits to having glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, yet she prayed for a public speaking opportunity.
“I won’t let fear rule my life. I want to experience life from the driver’s seat, instead of letting fear shove me into the back seat. I refuse to be crippled by fear.”
In her article “On Conquering the Fear of Public Speaking” Vera shares what she did to help her prepare for her talk at during the Women of the Gun reception at SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Find all Vera’s posts here.
Visit Vera’s website here.
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Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
