Page 343 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 09 11/20/02 1:02 PM Page 332
332 The Creative Training Idea Book
Think About What You Drink
Drink water instead of milk or caffeine products, especially carbonated drinks that
produce gas. They can upset your stomach or increase your stress levels.

Breathe Deeply

As you are being introduced or before you step in front of a group, take a few slow deep
breaths to replenish the oxygen supply to the brain.

Use Visioning

As discussed earlier in the book, visualizing an event is a powerful tool for learning. As
you are preparing for your training program, go to the actual delivery site and envision
what the setup will be. Practice facing different parts of the room at certain points in
the program to remind yourself to make eye contact during the training. Also, envision
what a successful program will look like, then do whatever is necessary to make that
happen. After all, much of being successful is your mental attitude.

Take a Short Walk

I often use the time between checking last-minute room details and the arrival of my
learners to take care of myself. I get a drink of water, use the restroom, and walk around
the perimeter of the training room or facility. I also use the time to do a mental check-
list of things and to rehearse my opening remarks one more time for peace of mind.

Do Something Physical
You read about how activity stimulates the brain and learning. It is also good to help
take your mind off any nervousness and to stimulate your muscles, increase your breath-
ing, and enrich the brain with oxygen. Try some stretches, cross-lateral activities, or some
isometric exercises. For example, stand an arm’s length from a wall, position your feet
at shoulder width, and place your palms on the wall. Tense your upper body as you push
against the wall trying to push it over. Hold this for 15–30 seconds, relax, and then repeat
a couple more times. Sit in a chair with hands on your knees and feet flat on the floor.
Press down with your hands, relax, and repeat. Now try it with your feet.

Pause Before Speaking
If you have seen professional speakers after they are introduced, you have possibly
noted that once they step onto the stage, they pause for dramatic effect. They might
glance around the room, smile, gesture openly to the crowd, and say something such
as, “Look at this audience! You are wonderful! Give yourself a hand.” All the time, while