'Change' is inevitable as are the 'voices of change.' Some
voices are internal; others, external. The larger your
change, the more voices appear. We all need a variety of
voices in our world. Sometimes we need a devil's advocate,
and at other times, expansive thinking. Deciphering which
ones are valid in each instance makes you unstoppable.
Internal voices are often a mystery. Some may seem
supportive yet are designed to hold you back. For example,
while considering taking on a huge new account, the
following voice may appear: "Oh honey, don't push so hard.
You're fine the way you are."
Many internal voices are highly critical and make you feel
rotten for even considering your change: "Who do you think
you are? Why would they want to do business with a rookie
like you? Remember that account last year when you failed
miserably?"
Soft internal voices of curiosity, intrigue and creativity
are the ones to value. "I wonder what I need to take on
that new account? I can rearrange my schedule, read that
insightful new book George recommended, and brainstorm with
Seth who is more experienced than I am at this point. Yes,
with focus and creativity I can do this."
It's key to take time to differentiate your conflicting
internal voices. In moving fast, you allow simultaneous
voices to shoot through your mind, which exhaust and
confuse you. It's like trying to catch individual drops of
water shooting out of a fire hose.
External voices can also be tricky. You know who you can
trust and who you cannot trust by now, right? What about
those whom you trust on a business level but possibly not
on a personal level. Many of us don't take time to
distinguish between the two.
The opposite is also true. We sometimes overlook the fact
that someone not directly involved in our business or
relationships can have priceless insight.
Below are four considerations when listening to numerous
voices of change:
Slow it down. Enthusiasm is a natural by-product of
change. We are excited to move forward and imagine the
possibilities. Once we get the thought in our mind, we
want to move fast. While it is often necessary to act
quickly, taking even a few moments of time to breathe and
quietly listen allows clarity.
Listen intently: What tones are you
hearing—cynicism, compassion, wisdom, jealousy,
doubt, genuine support, inquisitiveness? Are these voices
coming fast or through deep consideration? What is the
true meaning behind the words?
Assess your feeling: The test of a relationship is how you
feel when you walk away from an interaction. The same is
true of these 'voices.' How do you feel after leaving a
conversation or processing something internally? What is
your body telling you? Do you feel excited, energized,
cautious, peaceful, agitated?
Write it down: Take time to evaluate the above keys in a
quite place away from your normal daily activities. A
park, coffee shop, or day away from it all can provide
invaluable insight. Writing your thoughts down activates
both sides of your brain for further clarity. It also
slows down your thought process so you can see the
simplicity you may have missed in your haste.
This week, notice internal voices surrounding changes you
are considering. How can you master the art of knowing
which ones to value? In what areas of your life are you
unstoppable? Have a grand week and enjoy your discoveries.
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For the sake of keeping your career fresh and on track,
would you like to enjoy a weekly shot-in-the-arm from
Master Certified Coach Ann Golden Eglé? You can sign
up for her free weekly ezine, The Success Thought of the
Week, at http://www.gvsuccesscoaching.com .
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