[Matt Willard]

Originally Posted by babuji

I've heard that Tiger Woods uses a particular technique when practicing in order to prepare himself for a tournament.

What he does is that he over-extends his swing on his practice shots. The reason being is that humans tend to get tense in situations that they don't feel comfortable in. Therefore, whenever he's faced with a pressure-packed shot, by having practiced to go over-extend, the pressure situation, automatically causes that extended swing to withdraw a bit into a comfort zone. Hence resulting in a 'normal' swing.

In the same manner, when we anticipate that we will be entering a situation where it would require us to cross our comfort zone, we should practice a similar technique.

For instance, if you're going to give a speech in front of a large audience for the first time, then prior to the speech take a few moments to 'hyper-extend' and fire yourself up by talking loudly, jumping up and down, saying "I just can't wait to tell you about the topic at hand today, it's about a, b, c, etc..." and continue in a loud and energetic manner. (obviously in the privacy of your room or away from people, so as not to make people think you're crazy :-) ).

What this will do is that come speech time, you'll already have crossed your boundaries prior to the speech, and as a result, if nervousness arises while giving the speech, you'll withdraw back into your comfort zone which in reality would be your normal way of giving a speech.

Great technique that can be used for any situation by just over extending your boundaries before you enter the situation.

My drama teacher used to psyche us up before a performance with the same technique, and it really works. Got me excited to get out there and act well.

And yes, there are teenagers in the audience. XD