Performing at your best in sales requires that you take control of your mind. We all know that a confident, optimistic mind-set is a key ingredient to us reaching our top performance. Yet many salespeople, aided by a fast-paced, high-pressure business environment undermind themselves with negative talk and pessimistic thinking.
With a new week in front of us, here are a few habits to use so that you master your mind:
- Tune in to your mind-set throughout the day. It’s easy to get “caught-up” in everything around us. Observe your state of mind four or five times during the day. How’s your energy? What state are your in? In-control, relaxed and focused or anxious, uneasy and distracted?
- Focus on your breathing. Take slower, deeper breaths to instill a sense of calmness and confidence.
- Check your posture. Straighten out the crook in your back and assume the bearing of a fearless warrior. Turn your walk into a stride.
- Pay more attention to what you eat. There is certainly a food-mood connection. Various foods and drinks affect your mind-set. How does your thinking change 30 minutes after drinking a large soft drink?
- Set a cue in the environment. Choose a picture, the arrival of the mail, something on your desk that can prompt you to refocus yourself. Dan Robertson of the Printing Industries of America has a screen saver that reminds him to adopt a more mindful attitude.
- Monitor your internal dialog. When you hear yourself blaming or criticizing yourself, the company, your clients, the economy or co-workers, STOP! As Paul Viaolassi of Softtech Solutions said, “Get your mind out of the gutter.”
- Visualize. Recall past moments of brilliance and grace; envision yourself flourishing in difficult situations.
In the coming days, become more aware of your mind-set and the habits you practice that either lead you closer to or futher away from your sales goals.
Have a great week selling!
Leave a Reply