Walking is good for you

My 60 second summary is in the video. Read on for more detail.

I talk a lot about mindset because it so greatly impacts how you present. You can have the best content, the nicest slides, tick all the boxes. Ultimately, much of your success will come down to your delivery. You need to come across as articulate, engaging and confident, but nerves can hold you back from that.

A great mindset can help you communicate powerfully. And not just for your delivery – right from the get go, as you plan, design, and prepare your presentation. When you’ve got your mojo, you can be more creative, focussed, productive – for presentations, and all your work in general.

In the past, I’ve used walking in the lead up to high pressure events like presentations, workshops and important meetings. I did it to calm my nerves AND to help me work better. But I'd save it for when I was super stressed – a last ditch effort to reset. And sure enough, even a short walk around the block would help. I didn’t have time for more than that.

Fact is, I haven’t got more time now.

But let’s face it, it often comes down to priorities doesn't it? Now I try to get out every day. Partly because it’s good for me, and partly because I’m desperate for some calm.

I'm not sure why but I find myself getting anxious more easily than I used to. I know a lot of people are feeling this way. I think the past few years have taken a toll on us. And although we were all so excited to get back to normal, it’s not been easy to transition back. Maybe you can relate?

I’m doing my best to look after my mental health, and walking is a big part of that. Sometimes it’s a quick zip around the neighbourhood, sometimes longer. And sometimes I get so lucky, I experience a walk like this:

Today was just spectacular.

I know the exercise is good for me - in so many ways.

But hearing the crunch of the leaves under my feet, feeling the fresh breeze against my face, and seeing this gorgeous sight – an explosion of colour and beauty - it was therapeutic on a whole other level.

And boy, did I need it. I’ve got a lot on my plate, and a lot on my mind.

The walk calmed my nerves and lit a spark.

Straight up, I got so much done today. I was focussed, creative, inspired. I came up with great ideas. I sincerely felt excited about my work (not faking it like I suggested in a previous post!) Even my writer’s block, un-blocked.

Here’s what I suggest:

Allow yourself the time and space to look after your mental health. If not walking, do whatever it is that calms you. It will ultimately help you communicate better, work better, and of course, feel better too.