If there's something you really want to do, but think you can't 'because of stuttering' George Campbell shows how to make it happen.

Think of something you really want to do. Anything. You know there are potentially great rewards, but you're just not sure if you could cope with the initial risks. You just need that final push to take action! Whenever I feel this way, I use my 'Risks versus Rewards' chart.

This is a specific tool for getting over the initial fear of stammering in a new venture, and one I find very useful. I've done this chart for a quite a few things in my life, and with other people who stammer.

I've found that the most two common risks are as follows:

1.Stammering in front of somebody.
2.A slight feeling of discomfort at first.

For example: You might be putting off going for that job interview because you don't want to stammer in front of the panel. You would feel slightly uncomfortable at first.

But just imagine if you decided to go for it! You go to the job interview. Perhaps you stammer at the interview. But you get the job. The thing you've always wanted is yours! What will be the rewards of going for it? What are the benefits of your new life? How will you have changed a person? What new exciting rewards will be a part of your life?

About a year ago I really wanted to start martial arts. But guess what? At first I was afraid of going to the club in case I stammered in front of the instructor! (Getting physically hurt was actually way down the list!) But I went for it, and let me tell you - the rewards were immense! Here's how my individual chart would have looked.

Risks Possible stuttering Slight discomfort at first.

Rewards New friends A life changing, character building experience. I have a new feeling of confidence and assurance. I have courage to pursue new challenges! I am physically and mentally stronger than at any other time in my life. I am learning about eastern / oriental culture, and spirituality! A tremendous sense of peace, happiness and fulfilment.

Making small positive changes has a massive knock on effect. Rather than saying: "I'll wait till I've stopped stammering then join the Karate club" I joined the Karate club. This helped improve my discipline and character, thus I was better equipped to address my stammering!

During my workshop at the BSA conference 2004 I asked people to think about what they really wanted to do. (These included things like 'starting my own business', 'moving into management', 'joining a public speaking club' etc.) Here are just some of the rewards they came back with.

Risks Possible stuttering Slight discomfort at first.

Rewards Freedom of expression. The control of your own destiny Massive self-confidence High self esteem The confidence to expand your comfort zones. A feeling of success, fulfilment and accomplishment. The confidence to accept new challenges. Happiness Richer in character & monetary terms!

Just look at the fantastic rewards out there waiting for you! Can you imagine those feelings of happiness, satisfaction and confidence when they're yours? Also note that the feeling of discomfort (risks) are only temporary. Yet the rewards are long-term improvements to the quality of your life! Look at the rewards. Now look at the risks. I want to ask you a question...Are you prepared to risk a little bit of stammering and a little bit of temporary discomfort for all those fantastic rewards?

© 2004 George Campbell

From the Winter 2004 edition of Speaking Out

Also by George Campbell: The danger of denying excitement, and other articles linked from there.