I went from communication disaster to confident speaker.
I recently found my Kindergarten report card that my Mother saved. It said it all.
* Organizing Ideas: N = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT
* Takes Part in Class Discussions: N = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT
I was clearly not on the path to being a successful speaker and speaker coach. When I started as a speaker for a non-profit 25 years ago, the report card was a sign of what was to come.
I can see why I struggled with some really ineffective speaking patterns that started at an early age.
It was a constant battle, a struggle that I’m sure many of you can relate to. As I grew up, it got worse…
…like my nemesis: nervous laughter and a high voice when I was uncomfortable.
These habits used to occur up every single time I was speaking to a new person and when I was speaking in front of groups, making me sound unclear and unconfident.
And they had been with me a long time…
Once I became aware of what I was doing, I didn’t have a choice but to learn how to overcome them.
I committed to let them go forever.
I thought they were long gone…
… until recently, when they came back “full force” as I faced new challenges that stretched me.
I went from being a confident, clear communicator in certain settings to sounding inexperienced and unsure – different from what you’d expect from a speaker and speaking coach with 25 years of experience.
I had to examine the underlying emotional reasons this was happening again. This introspection was crucial for understanding and overcoming these old habits.
I could spend my time and energy beating myself up over this and how embarrassed I was…
…or I could commit to changing these patterns once again and communicate clearly, powerfully, and with intention.
So what did I do?
I got help to address the underlying issues that created these patterns and committed to changing them.
The more you believe that you can’t let go of something, the more you give away your power.
We all have a choice!
You can choose to let old, worn-out habits go, or you can let them consume you. These habits are holding you back, preventing you from moving forward.
Just like me, you have the strength to let go of the old and bring in the new. Remember, change is possible, and you have the power to make it happen.
What patterns or behaviors have you let go of?
And how do you handle it when they try to come back?
I’d love to hear your experiences and strategies for overcoming old habits. Comment on my LinkedIn post here.
Hi, if we haven’t met yet, I am AmondaRose Igoe, Speaking Success Strategist for Women.
I work with 6 to 8-Figure Women Business Professionals to write a compelling signature talk that connects with the entire audience EVERY TIME they speak and provide an A to Z system for book speaking engagements.
I have helped hundreds of women in over 20 countries 2X to 10X their speaking results.
Ready to find out your speaker personality? Take the Quiz here
