In Managing
the Cynic In Your Head I discussed how to manage the negative
voice we all have in our heads who stops us from taking risks.
Now I'd like to review a few risk taking techniques many of you
have heard me recommend. I use these techniques regularly and
get great results. Try 'em and see how you do. I think you'll
be pleased with what you accomplish:
-
DON'T THINK TOO MUCH BEFORE TAKING A RISK. The easiest way to
get into a cold swimming pool is to jump right in. The same
can be said for taking risks. Hesitating will only psyche you
out.
-
WHEN YOU JUMP, JUMP BIG. Don't hold back. Fully commit yourself.
-
IF YOU DON'T A-S-K, you won't G-E-T. Come right out and ask
for what you want. People will appreciate you being straight
with them.
-
EMBRACE FAILURE AND REJECTION: Think of failure as an opportunity
to learn. If things don't work out, figure out why. Then make
some changes and try again.
-
BE A JUDGE, NOT A SUSPECT. Don't worry about what others think.
Instead, you should be the one who does thinking. (This doesn't
mean be judgmental. It just means believing that your opinion
and way of doing things is as good as anyone else's.)
-
FOCUS LESS ON YOUR IMAGE AND MORE ON WHAT YOU WANT. Do what
you must to succeed without concern for your reputation or appearance.
-
FOCUS ON FACTS, NOT ON FEELINGS. Don't let insecurity lead to
incorrect assumptions about yourself. Examine your situation
and wait for tangible facts before determining whether or not
there's a problem.
-
PRACTICE TAKING RISKS. It does get easier.
-
ASK YOURSELF WHAT YOU REALLY HAVE TO LOSE. Most of the time
it's about ego and less about any real loss.
-
GO FIRST. Have the courage to something before waiting to see
if others are willing.
-
TAKE RESPONSIBLE RISKS: Never risk your physical safety or the
safety of others. Always pursue healthy goals.
Make these
practices part of your lifestyle and I will guarantee that you
will be a more powerful leader and more fulfilled human being.
Scott Greenberg, Speaker, Author, Leadership Consultant
Providing motivation, team building and leadership training for
groups and individuals looking for optimum performance.
For
more information on programs or leadership workbooks,
call 1-800-450-0432 or visit www.scottgreenberg.com
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