A Running Start for Big Moments

Do you remember applying for your first job? Getting your first big commission? Landing your first deal with a customer? Or maybe just starting a dreaded conversation?

How did you approach this Big Moment - did you visualise, mentally prepare yourself, or just jump off the cliff? Your approach will probably be determined by your personality. Whether you are hesitant, courageous, self-confident, extrovert, etc.

I am more the hesitant introvert, who procrastinates and pushes the Big Moment out as far as possible.

But I have found a strategy, which helps me tackle and win in these situations: I need to hit the ground running.
Both in life and in business I arrange for a trial run where possible. This means that before applying to the job I want I will write and send out at least 3 applications for jobs I do not really care about. It is not about landing an interview with these, it is about gathering experience and momentum and confidence before the one application which really matters. 

Applied to other situations this means: 

Before taking on the first big commission doing a small one for a friend, complete with payment to iron out any creases in the process. 

Before talking to the gallery I really really want my art to be displayed in, to go and talk to one or more galleries I do not really care about. 

Or even before diving into a painting on a huge canvas (these are expensive...) to plan and sketch out the painting on paper.


This prepares me mentally, gives valuable experiences and feedback and expands my horizon. 

When the Big Day comes I know that I have done this before.
No reason to worry :)

​Nadin