How to develop the ability to think on your feet?

Devices are the foe of thinking on your feet – “just a quick reply to that email/text/IM” in actuality distract you. Try 3 mindsets instead:

1. Be in the moment. You must be active listening to others AND yourself to successfully react and think on your feet, so minimize device distractions to increase mindfulness.
2. We literally “can’t think” when we’re stressed or emotionally charged. Because our reactions often determine whether we come out with regrets or regards, don’t lose your cool!
3. Thinking on your feet could feel counterintuitive to project managers because it refers to quick decisions without planning. In dynamic situations, it actually puts you in control because your decisiveness based on the available data helps move the project forward. So, stay open-minded!

SEE ALSO:

How to maintain composure when speaking off the cuff?

How to handle mistakes when speaking extemporaneously?

How to help your team improve their impromptu speaking skills?

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