While doing the communications workshops, we did some amazing work. We actually created the future!
Some people were afraid to speak in public. I discussed things with them and invited them to imagine what would be their experience just after finishing the presentation. What would be the feeling of the audience? I asked them to be specific and positive in defining this.
One person defined this about the situation just after the session:
I feel this was the best presentation I have ever given. People also liked it since they applauded so well. They also understood the core principles of what I presented.
With this definition and a few tips on how to deliver the presentation, he was able to actually create the future. What happened was not only what he created, but even better. People even asked questions! When people ask questions in a session, it means they are tuned in, they are understanding and participating in what you are talking about.
The whole experience was superb.
And then we did it again. Another person was afraid to speak because she did not feel comfortable talking to others in English. She felt she would say something wrong and her impression would ruin. We created the future that she would not have any fear of speaking in a group after she finishes her elocution. That she will speak in English without mistakes and breaks. That people will appreciate what she did.
Yes, that is what happened. She did excellent in the elocution and does not feel any fear in communicating in groups now. I clearly see the difference in her before and after the elocution.
So what makes it work?
I think a few things make this process work! First, when you create the future, the confidence level automatically increases. The expectations from self also increase and you give the job a better shot. Subconsciously the visualization of the future builds up in the mind and provides power to actually achieve that. The trust in the coach and one’s self shows up in the future actually happening. You are clear about what you are creating and it becomes much easier for it to actually happen. You are free from the past worries and focus on how to create that future.
Try it out! It’s worked for me!