Frazer’s Practice Ladder

Many PWS practice self-help ideas haphazardly, randomly and sporadically. I did that myself at one time. And that is one reason we fail. Having a systematic plan—and sticking to it—is essential. A practice ladder can be the first step towards success.

Start at the bottom, at your Comfort Level, and gradually work your way up. Move to the next level only when you are reasonably comfortable with the present one. Slow, steady and systematic practice is far more effective than random bursts of effort.

Climb the ladder—one step at a time. And reach for STARS! Here is a reflective piece from Frazer (Goa SHG):

My Comfort Zone:

I feel most comfortable when I speak with people whom I know well and with whom I share a good level of comfort and familiarity.

My Stretch Zone:

Public speaking and asking questions during meetings are areas where I need to step out of my comfort zone. I sometimes hesitate to raise a valid point because I worry about being noticed or judged or stammer. However, I am learning that I need to overcome this hesitation and make my voice heard.

A good example of my Stretch Zone was my son’s recent Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting. The school wanted 11 parents to represent the parents in the PTA. A friend who was present encouraged me to raise my hand, and although I had to push myself to do so, I eventually volunteered.

Later, the 11 selected parents had to elect three members for the PTA Executive Board: the Working President, Vice-President, and Treasurer. Something inside me told me that I should put myself forward. I asked some basic questions to understand how the PTA would function and interacted with the other parents to become more familiar with them and the process. Eventually, the parents elected me as the Vice-President, and I accepted the responsibility.

This was a meaningful example of my Stretch Zone. It gave me the opportunity to be a part of the PTA body and, more importantly, how I can contribute as a parent to support my child and other children in their academic and overall development at school. It also helped me realise that sometimes I need to take the initiative, even when I feel uncomfortable or unsure.

My Panic/Stress Zone:

I enter my Panic or Stress Zone when I do not get enough sleep and then try to speak forcefully. In such situations, I may stammer uncontrollably and find it difficult to express my thoughts clearly. I also struggle when I have not prepared myself adequately before speaking. At those times, my mind tends to go blank, and I am unable to organise my thoughts.

I have realised that I can manage my Stress Zone through patience, proper preparation, adequate rest, and self-confidence. Preparing beforehand helps me organise my thoughts, while sufficient sleep and rest help me communicate more clearly. I need to remind myself that I do not have to speak perfectly; I simply need to express my thoughts calmly and confidently.