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Making Changes
The first time I spoke I became painfully aware of my use of the filler word UM because, every time you say UM, someone clicks a clicker. Let me just tell you I was ready to ring the clicker’s neck! Now as I speak I try to be aware of and not use my UM. In doing this I feel self conscious and very uncomfortable. As I try and pay attention to my words I end up sounding weird to myself. I feel angry that I can’t be who I am and that I can’t speak the way I speak. These people are taking away my personality! (This makes me laugh as I write it). I tell you this story to make a point. I want to be an effective speaker. To do this I am going to have to change some habits I have had for a long time. Can I do it? Of course I can! Is it hard? YES! The REAL issue is the emotions I feel about the change. Luckily I have a fabulous technique that I can use to heal those feelings. What changes have you been trying to make in your life -- without success? "I want to stop smoking"
Sincerely, Lori Barnett, HHP |

I started going to Toastmasters -- a place for people to practice their speaking and communication skills. 