There are times in life when we feel a little ‘less than’ or not quite on top of our game. Some of us feel like that much of the time and find that interacting with others can be an almost painful experience. I have written these tips with those people in mind because I used to be one of them.
1. Never leave home unless you look and feel your best!
There is nothing worse than bumping into someone you haven’t seen for years and you are looking like something the cat dragged in. (Or meeting a new prospective client.)When you look good, you feel good, no doubt about that, so don’t be tempted to run around town in your track suit (sweats)
2. Always create an intention:
Whether you are going to a meeting, making a phone call or writing an article, without an intention you are vulnerable to reacting in the moment or being stuck for words. When you know what and why you want something you are much more likely to have a successful result and less likely to let anyone ‘press your buttons”.
3. Smile first:
Whatever situation you find yourself in always be ready with a smile. It can work wonders for your mood and also allay a sticky situation. It’s also difficult to be nervous or feel unsure when you have a genuine smile on your face.
4. Do your homework:
There is nothing worse than feeling nervous and then adding fuel to the fire by not being prepared. Whether you are speaking in public, going for an interview or speaking with a prospective client find out as much as you can about the people or company you will be speaking to. Knowledge is power. Prepare for objections and have answers at the ready. Be curious and interested.
5. Know who you are:
Self Esteem can be learned. By acknowledging your skills, character traits and knowledge and focusing less on the things you have yet to learn will take you a long way in becoming confidently assured.
It also helps if you focus on the person you are speaking to rather than how you are ‘doing’. Become genuinely interested in others and before you know it you will forget about your nerves.
It is good to remember that we all have to start somewhere. In moments when I feel less than assured I think of Dr Christian Barnard – the man who did the first heart transplant – and my fear seems to dwindle in comparison. I cannot imagine what that must have been like for him or anyone with that amount of pressure or expectation around their work.
Take some time every day to practice, give yourself small challenges until you are strutting your stuff with the best of them.
Mastery is doing something every day, it’s the practice that makes masters of athletes, musicians and people like you and me. It’s what makes the biggest difference in the long term.
It is such a shame when someone of talent is held back because of limiting self beliefs that can be changed with some practice and a willingness to feel ‘uncomfortable’ for a short time.
I know what that’s like and it took me a long time to change and when I did it happened ‘in a flash’, like an awakening almost. I was astounded that my life could change so much in such a short time and I would love that to happen for you.
I hope these tips will help you become more self assured and willing to take on a few challenges and stretch yourself to your full potential. Small steps taken consistently is the key. Believe in yourself, you are the only one who can be the best you can be. No comparison.
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