Are You Getting in Your Own Way?

What does it mean when a coach says 'you're getting in your own way'? This phrase can be likened to 'analysis paralysis'. When we experience analysis paralysis, we become so fucussed on analyzing the situation, and what our next move should be (analysis), it keeps us from actually moving forward (paralysis). The same thing can happen when giving a presentation. You might be standing in front of the room giving your carefully prepared presentation, but instead of focussing on your audience, you become so busy judging your performance while you're performing (analysis).

Did I say that right?

Did I sound foolish?

Do they like me?

Do they think I'm know what I'm talking about?

This keeps us from being in the moment and fully listening, responding, and conecting to our audience (paralysis).

How do I connect with my audience? One technique I use is to connect your words with actions. Don't just say the words, decide what you want those words to do:

Excite, surprise, intrigue, relax, simplify, frustrate, enlighten, teach, etc..

Once you identify what you're doing (action), your focus shifts from 'how am I doing', to 'what am I doing for my audience'. The next time you find yourself getting in your own way, dig into your action, commit to it, make it stronger and more passionate. Your audience will relate to your feelings, and connect to you.

**Start getting out of your own way today! Annie@APowerfulVoice.net