Please remove this phrase from your brain and mouth: “I didn’t have a chance.”
“I didn’t have a chance to look at your website.”
“I didn’t have a chance to read your article.”
“I didn’t have a chance to visit your new store.”
Yes, you had a chance! Probably several dozen chances. The point is — you didn’t TAKE that chance!
Between sessions 1 and 2 of my presentation skills classes, I assign the reading of my book, Life is a Presentation. And I add, “Next week, no one gets to say, ‘I didn’t have a chance to read your book.’ If you didn’t read it, you must say, ‘I did not make it a priority to read your book.'”
I add, “Surely, you don’t want us to think you don’t have the power to manage your time, to keep your word, or to communicate appropriately if circumstances are truly beyond your control.”
I have a client who has been putting off an “uncomfortable” conversation with a co-worker whom he manages. After one month of avoiding this conversation, he is still telling me that he “hasn’t had a chance” and “the timing hasn’t been right.”
Take calcium for a stronger backbone, my friends. And take that chance when it’s right in front of you!
