First, in my usual annoying and teasing storytelling way, let me take a step back.
I had an important training course to run last week, with lots of high powered people on the line.
Apologies for not revealing what it was, but I had to sign one of those confidentiality agreements which are so secret you can't even say you've agreed to them.
(Whoops.)
Anyway, the point is that I don't usually get nervous before such sessions, but I was feeling the pressure on this one.
The prep was all in place. I'd done my rehearsals, and was confident the material would work.
But even so, I woke early, went through it all one more time, had some breakfast, got showered...
And the time was still only 8.30, when we were due to start at 10.
Just sitting, thinking about what was coming wasn't going to do me any good.
So I put this tip into action. It's one I've used many times before, and it never fails me.
However counter intuitive it might be to walk away for a while, I took myself outside for a stroll, in this case along the River Cam.
But it's not just the distraction which helps deal with a big moment. Try these thoughts as well:
- Turn your face to the sun, let it warm you and fill you with wellbeing and energy
- Take your ear buds out and listen to the sounds of the birds, the river, the breeze in the trees
- Walk on the grass and feel its softness underfoot
- Watch the people passing by, and wonder about their stories
- Breathe in the air, and I mean really breathe, deep and long
- Smell some of the flowers or plants you find on your way
- Run your fingers over the bark of a tree, and sense its age and wisdom
There are plenty of other things you can do to just live in the moment, escape from the pressures of life, and feel refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.
And all that from only a few minutes out in the air.
Let me know some of your favourite wellbeing wonders in a comment. I'm always keen to hear more, and give them a try.
But most of all, enjoy my little trick and let it help you with whatever big moment you're facing.
It's one of those amazing insights which may be small, but can have a remarkable impact.