A Key to Changing Yourself

By Marty Nemko

As a little girl, when Marcy would suggest something, her mother would usually roll her eyes in disdain. So, Marcy spoke up less and less. Now, Marcy is 35, knows intellectually that she's not stupid, yet in staff meetings, is still reluctant to speak up. A few months ago, she and I agreed that she'd say the following to herself before each staff meeting: "It's okay to speak up." For months, nothing changed. Finally, one day, seemingly like magic, she found herself able to speak up.

The moral: We often know what to do but need much repetition before it sinks into our bones.

What Can You Do Today?
Create a mantra for one change you want to make. Say it right before the key moment.