Confident public speaking
Once you’ve overcome the fear of public speaking, the next step is learning how to do it well. You don’t need to be slick or charismatic – some of the most powerful speakers simply come across as grounded, authentic and clear. Whether you’re delivering a team briefing, a presentation to clients or a speech at […]
Overcoming the fear of public speaking: practical tools & subconscious shifts
The fear of public speaking is one of the most common anxieties people experience. Whether it’s delivering a presentation at work, speaking up in a meeting, or giving a wedding toast, the physical symptoms can be overwhelming: racing heart, shaky hands, dry mouth, mind gone blank. For some, this fear is a mild discomfort. But […]
Reframing for resilience
In high-pressure roles – whether you’re advising government ministers, managing complex litigation, or juggling competing demands across clients – it can sometimes feel like the only way to cope is to change your job or even the entire system. But sometimes, the most powerful shift doesn’t require changing your circumstances. It’s about reframing how […]
Managing anxiety with ‘opposite action’
In high-stakes professional environments, anxiety can often feel like an unwelcome companion – showing up when decisions matter most or when expectations are at their highest. Whether you’re in a senior leadership role, managing a demanding caseload, or navigating change, anxiety can undermine confidence, cloud judgment, and erode wellbeing over time. That’s where a […]
Leverage your social strengths: introvert, ambivert, or extrovert?
Many people believe that being outgoing and charismatic is the key to social success. But in reality, likability and connection come from authenticity—not from forcing yourself into a personality that doesn’t feel natural. Vanessa Van Edwards, a behavioural researcher, emphasises that successful social interactions aren’t about changing who you are but about leveraging your unique […]
Emotional agility: pause, name, and choose
At work and in life, we often face situations that trigger immediate emotional reactions – whether it’s receiving unexpected feedback, managing tight deadlines, or navigating challenging relationships. These reactions, though natural, can sometimes lead us to act impulsively, making the situation worse. Emotional agility is the skill of pausing and then choosing a response that […]
Building confidence: strategies for professional and personal growth
Confidence is a vital attribute that influences how we communicate, make decisions, and seize opportunities in both our professional and personal lives. Developing and maintaining confidence can lead to greater job satisfaction, improved performance, and overall well-being. Here are several strategies to help you build and enhance your confidence: Recognise and celebrate your achievements Regularly […]
Speaking up in meetings
Speaking up in meetings can be challenging, especially if you’re naturally introverted or struggle with confidence in a room full of colleagues. However, your voice matters, and contributing effectively can enhance your professional presence, build credibility, and ensure your ideas are heard. Here are some key strategies to give you more confidence and impact speaking […]
Navigating the Stages of Team Development
Understanding how teams evolve is crucial for leaders, managers, and team members alike. One of the most widely recognised models of team development is Bruce Tuckman’s Stages of Team Development, which describes how teams progress from first coming together through to becoming mature and high-performing. Recognising and appreciating these stages—Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning—can […]
Unlocking your team’s potential: the power of away days
With fast paced demands and hybrid working, the opportunity to step back, reflect, and reconnect as a team is more important than ever. Team away days aren’t just a break from routine: they’re an investment in your team’s culture and collective success. Done right, they’re also really good fun. And I believe fun is […]