Confidence Leads the Way!

 Dictionary.com defines confidence as the belief in oneself and one's powers or abilities.

Have you ever come across these types of situations:

• Your supervisor is on vacation and upper management is asking you for an update on a project, right now!

• You are starting your own business and need to talk to a bank about a small business loan today!

• You have been assigned to train fellow employees on new safety rules at several plant locations within the month!

• You have an idea for a new invention and need to sell your idea quickly!

• You want to join a community group today but you don’t know any members.

• You have several job interviews this week to market your skills.

• Your favorite cause has asked you to take the lead on a huge fundraiser now!

As you read the above "real-world" opportunities, did you smile knowing you could handle these situations? Or, did your heart start pounding, knees get weak or your mind go blank?

Confidence is that “stable rock” inside you that says Yes, I can do this, no matter what happens!

However, it is the “what might happen” scenario that causes many people to avoid speaking opportunities. They may have visions of looking foolish, dumb, incapable, nervous or silly and the “fear of failure” is real. It may not be the huge audience that is scary; rather one-on-one interviews or conversations that create an uncomfortable feelings.

Former First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt said it best: “I believe that anyone can conquer fear by doing the things he fears to do, provided he keeps doing them until he gets a record of successful experience behind him.”

The problem, is that if we don’t get (or take) opportunities to handle “uncomfortable” situations where effective communication is imperative, how do you get the experience you need to get more confidence?

If your career, volunteer, or community efforts are not enough to keep you speaking confidently and with ease, then may want to consider practicing on a regular basis so you ARE ready for the next opportunity that comes your way!

Search the internet and you will find many workshops, seminars, personal coaches and organizations to help you get comfortable speaking to one, ten, 50 or 100 people.

After researching, I found Toastmasters to be the best choice for me because it is a “learn by doing” program in a fun, comfortable and supportive environment. Think of practicing good communication skills as you would exercising – it takes constant workouts to ”stay in shape”. My home club is Katy Toastmasters - stop by for a visit!

Consistently practicing your speaking skills will enhance your confidence and prepare you for opportunities that you will eagerly tackle and succeed!  😀

Wishing you lots of personal growth and excitement!





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