Using the Crutches Automatically

[Vikram Nandyala]

So my speech has been going really well and I never have a long stutter anymore. At worst, I have a 0.5 second stutter or I hesitate and I think that stems unfortunately from the not using the crutches in the moment. 

I do know the crutches perfectly well and I use them even when I don’t need to but when I get nervous, I sometimes freeze and forget to use the crutches. It’s a bad habit. Does anyone have any recommendations on how to remember to use the crutches in the moment? If I know how to do that, I feel my speech will improve a lot!

[Javier]

Hi Vikram, from my experience, whenever I have faced an uncomfortable speaking situation, I try to focus 100% on the Crutches. If I succeed, the next time I face the same or a similar situation, I find it much easier to avoid stutters. And after practicing for a while, I have found myself using the Crutches automatically.
It’s a matter of practice.
In any event, I’ve heard you speak several times at the Speechmasters Club meetings, and you sound great!

[Vikram Nandyala]

Okay yeah, that makes sense. I’ll really try to focus 100% on the crutches. I am trying and when I remember, it works perfectly. I guess like you said it’s just a matter of practice and patience for me to automatically remember

[cindy]

Vikram, that has happened to me as well. I’m curious – this may be a question for the coaches – what crutch do you resort to when in uncomfortable situations? Is there a particular crutch you use the most in these times?

[Javier]

Crutch 11 is extremely useful. I particularly like C-4 and C-10 (including holding the tone). Crutch 9 is also very helpful. I guess it depends on the situation…

[Author]

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