A big presentation to the boss’ bosses.
A race that will decide the meet.
It’s the end of the game – your personal 9th inning, 2 outs, winning run in scoring position.
The boss asks you to close the biggest client in the history of the company.
The fastest man in the Major Leagues is on base and his presence seems to change the game for you. What do you do? Hopefully not this!
Whether in business or in sports, choking is all too common. It can also be commonly overcome. There are simple things that everyone can do, but they’re not easy steps. For the one who still chokes in their big moments, the brain needs to be retrained and that takes effort over time.
(1) Learn how your brain works. Take some time to read about neuroscience, neurotransmitters and mindfulness. Learn about your amygdala and how it works. When you know what is happening, you can take charge of your circumstances.
(2) Take a breath. Literally it’s the simplest of the steps you can take and you can do it anywhere. Breathing deeply gives your life a pause, which is the key. It also keeps your pulse below 100, another key piece.
(3) Answer the questions WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, in a sense doing an autopsy of your choking moments. For an athlete, what race? when in the race? who is around? certain venues or all of them?
For business leaders, what meetings? beginning, middle or end of the week? or the day? certain people?
Answering these questions will give you an accurate picture of what it is exactly, otherwise you are taking a stab in the dark and trying to effect change where it may not be needed.
(4) Admit you choke. Your brain likes order. When you say one thing but your brain knows it’s not accurate, you begin to make more emotional decisions. That’s not helpful. Own your stuff because fighting against it only makes your anxiety and stress increase.
Want to know more? Contact Jeff@levelupleadershipcoach.com