I have psychiatric conditions that have prevented me from performing (in the arts and public speaking). I had accommodations all throughout schooling and college. If I got on a stage or in front of an audience, well....I’d blow chunks and break down. Then one day I stood in front of students fearing I wouldn’t be able to cut it— I had my college advisor telling me I wouldn’t cut it because of “what my disability stops me from doing”. Not only did I not blow chunks, but for the first time I had fun being in front of others. Likes other users have stated, it’s just different. Ive learned a brilliant teacher will make mistakes, teach through discomfort, respond to mistakes being made with generosity, and learn from your students. We don’t have all the answers. When I teach I’m not performing and I’m not sticking to a script. I’m reading and adapting to my student’s needs in that particular moment. Teaching is a vulnerable act, no matter your vulnerabilities. My disability doesn’t stop me from speaking in front of an audience, despite what my old college advisor may of said. It just makes it damn hard. I’ve practiced with students because I’ve felt safe with them, and in return I know they’ve felt safe with me by how they respond and act in my classroom. And as a bonus, I’ve been able to advocate and provide modifications for students who present the same challenges with performance.