‘On the Other Side of Fear’: Stuttering Lessons from Matice Morris

Fear shows up at least once in a while for everyone, but for people who stutter (PWS), it can feel amplified in otherwise “everyday” or “ordinary” moments. Like ordering a coffee, introducing yourself to someone new, or sitting across from a potential employer during an interview. 

But advocate and author Matice Morris reminds us that fear can become the very thing that helps us grow in our stuttering journey. She shared her story with the National Stuttering Association (NSA) community during the 2023 Annual Conference, offering reflections that continue to inspire years later. 

She reminds us that courage is not about waiting for the fear to fade. It is about moving forward while it is still there.

When the World Doubts People Who Stutter

Unfortunately, many PWS know what it feels like to be underestimated or undermined. Matice described one of those moments:

“I had a job recruiter tell me I would have a hard time getting a job because the employers would think I was mentally challenged. I was facing constant rejection and adversity.”

That moment could have discouraged her. Instead, she chose to keep going, fueled by the belief that her stutter was not something to hide.

Doing the Thing That Scares You The Most

Fear often signals that growth is just around the corner. Matice shared an empowering lesson that resonates with anyone seeking to find courage in their voice:

“Do the thing that scares you the most. It’s in the scary, hard moments where we see what we’re made of. Most times, we’re stronger than our fears by far.”

By stepping into what felt uncomfortable, she discovered her strength:

“I refused to let my stutter hold me back from another job opportunity. I felt the fear and did it anyway. After one interview, I was hired.”

Courage doesn’t mean being fearless. It means acting despite the fear and seeing what is possible on the other side.

Redefining Confidence

Confidence grows from empathy, self-acceptance, and community:

“When I started the job hunt again, I still stuttered, but I knew there was absolutely nothing wrong with it. In fact, it made me that much better, empathetic, and attentive to others. I believe my inner confidence showed externally, and I received multiple job offers.”

Her closing message continues to inspire:

“Feel the fear and do it anyway. Do the thing that scares you the most, and you’ll see that fear is only a mental mountain, where, on the other side, is confidence.”

Fear is not the end of the story. It is often the beginning of strength.

Conclusion

At the NSA, we celebrate voices like Matice’s. Join an NSA Chapter near you or connect online at WeStutter.org to find your community today.