Have you ever thought this to yourself especially when you imagine that you are about to be asked to speak to a group? It isn’t really dangerous. Your brain has put this activity into the same category as facing a lioness protecting her cubs or crossing a busy city street. You are frightening yourself by thinking strangely.
Here are a variety of attitudes to speaking. Identify yours and decided to move to the next stage.
1. Reject – Refuse or avoid any opportunities
2. Resist – Push back when asked. Make excuses.
3. Accept – Accept any opportunities that are offered and make the most of them
4. Welcome – Welcome any opportunities that come your way.
5. Seek – Seek opportunities to speak in public
6. Enjoy – Enjoy speaking and look forward to the next time. Get excited at the prospect.
So where are you?
If you want to change your present attitude, first identify where you are and then devise a plan to move to the next stage. If fear is holding you back, read ‘The Confidence Gap’ by Dr. Russ Harris. Fear is natural. Make room for it and don’t let it take over. If you get thoughts that are not helping, let them float away or don’t focus on them. They are trying to help you like a flashing light on a dashboard. It’s reminding you to get petrol soon. You don’t have to stop immediately. You know this is a good warning. Your fear is the same.
If you want help in identifying your present attitude or want to devise a strategy for moving ahead, contact me. I am happy to help you get to the enjoyment stage. The people who speak need to speak for those who don’t have a voice.
Regards,
Paddy
