MIND|Mental
Think faster and better on your feet
Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to give an answer on the spot or quickly think of something clever to say but your mind freezes and you come up with nothing? Being put on the spot is a fairly common scenario that we experience—whether it’s for an important decision at the workplace or an appropriate response in a social gathering.
While some people seem to be gifted with the ability to always come up with the right thing to say at the right time, most of us mere mortals often end up at a loss for words during stressful situations. Here are some tips to help you think on your feet faster and better:
Relax and be att entive
In a high-pressure situation, you sometimes get so nervous you don’t really hear the actual question. Allowing yourself to feel overwhelmed will compromise your logic and decision-making ability. To help you remain clear-headed, breathe deeply, look directly at the person you’re speaking with, and ask questions to increase your comprehension and mental clarity.
Take a moment
It is okay to pause for a bit in order to gather your thoughts. When you pause, you tell your brain to slow down. This allows you to translate your thoughts and ideas into coherent speech and come across as someone who is assured, poised, and in control. Used sparingly and wisely, silence can become powerful.
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