Transforming Insecurity: Communication Skills Tip

I know that when I feel insecure, I don't always project the image I desire. Or, even worse, I may not speak up to make a point. My voice gets restricted, I feel tense in my shoulders and I hold my breath. I am aware of the change in my behavior because I have a heightened sense of myself due to my training as a performer. The good news is, we can all remedy our insecurity. First by noticing how it shows up. Then, by making small adjustments in our physicality or our voice. In acting class, I remember one way of building a character was through acquiring a different physical state. From the frame of the body, one could make assumptions about how the character might use his voice or choose her words. Another way of forming a character was through a vocal pitch or quality. Soon after, the non-verbal aspects would fall into place based on the vocal choices. Now, whenever I notice myself communicating in a way that isn't representative of my confidence and know-how, I look to adjust my body and voice to reflect the image I know will make an impact. Because we can't always tackle our development head on, trying an imposed physical state or vocal shift may be a good solution to adjusting the image you want in your interpersonal communications. To be added to Lanartco's Communication Performance Tip of the Week, please connect to this link or send your email address to info@lanartco.com.