How I Changed My Stuttering Mindset

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Re: "we perform at a level that is consistent with our beliefs an...

From: Alan Badmington (to MaeLeah)
Date: 21 Oct 2005
Time: 17:26:33 -0500
Remote Name: 81.79.43.22

Comments

Hi MaeLeah, Thank you for taking the time to participate in this threaded discussion. I am delighted that my article addressed some of the points that you are discussing on your current counselling course. Stuttering involves so many things. “What did I find to be the most difficult aspect of making a change in my mindset?” Possibly, the fact that our beliefs are so deeply engrained. Many of our beliefs are inherited in childhood – we run our lives in accordance with our beliefs. (It may assist you to gain a better understanding of our belief system by referring to my immediately preceding response to Katie). In order to challenge my self-limiting beliefs (for example, that I could not speak in front of groups, or that I could not use half of the alphabet), I did the things I feared doing most. I simply took up public speaking, and refused to avoid saying the words that gave me the greatest difficulties. In the safe environment of my first McGuire Programme course (which lasted for 4 days), I found it relatively easy to speak without difficulty – using the new techniques that I had acquired. But it was explained that I would still retain my deep-rooted negative beliefs when I returned home and ventured out into the real world. Had that not been explained, then I feel that I may have become disheartened in the event of setbacks occurring. Instead, I knew that I had to persevere, and viewed my setbacks as stepping stones to success. I saw the fact that I was facing my fears as a very positive factor. During the course, I also gained an understanding of the ‘stuttering hexagon’. It helped me to appreciate that the way in which we speak at any given time is influenced by a host of different factors. For example, our physical condition (we may be tired or feeling unwell); our emotional state (maybe we’ve have had a row with our loved one, or fallen out with someone at work); whether we have had an earlier unsuccessful speaking situation; the type of person to whom we are speaking (perhaps someone in authority, or a person with whom we have previously encountered difficulties) etc. There are so many things that come into play and have a bearing upon our speech. So, I was able to take all of this into consideration as my journey progressed. Some days were better than others - some days I did not feel as confident. Whatever happened, I never relinquished my resolve or self-belief that I weould eventually arrive at my destination. And, importantly – I always had support. Incidentally, you can learn more about the stuttering hexagon (and how it related to my own circumstances) by visiting the links indicated in my response to Katie. Thank you, so much, for your valued contribution. MaeLeah, I wish you every success with your studies and future life/career. Kindest regards Alan


Last changed: 10/24/05