In the interview, Bowman talks about what swimmers and their coaches should (and should not) do right before the race:
Note: There are some annoucements before the interview - but it's worth the wait.
Track and Field Videos on Flotrack
By focuses on a technical detail - the process of success - rather than on the end result, the swimmer keeps his/her attention fully in the present moment - not on the larger meaning of the event.
Bowman's message can apply beautifully to speaking:
From the Green Room: Right before you get up to speak, try not to focus on the broader significance of what you are about to do (e.g. my career depends on this, I have worked so hard to get to this moment). Instead focus on something one technical reminder. (e.g. Breathe. Keep feet planted. Smile.)
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4 comments:
Thank you so much for bringing this terrific interview to our attention. Coach Bowman provides brilliant insight into his craft --and by extension into preparation for public speaking or any such potentially stressful endeavor. But even more than that, he demonstrates superb skill in his ability to get a message across to an audience (i.e. focusing on one major idea & seamlessly weaving in
fascinating anecdotal detail; coming across as authoritative while also injecting a note of totally genuine humility).
Thank you for this perspective. I had not thought about how well he conveys his message - you are so right. The story about the two figure-skaters was a beautiful illustration of his point.
Man that was a cool video. It is so rare to have a coach give insightful comments on the performance of his athletes and his own coaching style instead of useless bromides. very refreshing and practical. Thanks.
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