Introduction:
Greetings, champions of speech! Today, we’re venturing into a crucial phase of the stuttering journey—preventing relapses. Yes, it’s entirely possible to bid farewell to stuttering and its sneak attacks, and we’re here to guide you through it. Buckle up as we delve into the key strategies.
The Relapse Conundrum:
In the stuttering world, there’s a common belief that relapses are like inevitable guests. However, just as we believe stuttering can be stopped, we firmly believe that relapses can be dodged. The secret lies in completing the program—mastering the use of crutches in all situations and embracing a genuine love for speaking in every setting.
Embracing Relapses as Opportunities:
Dr. Paul Brocklehurst, a self-cured stutterer and speech professional, shared a profound insight. He mentioned that relapses, though challenging, can be opportunities to prove to ourselves that our methods truly work, erasing any lingering fears. Overcoming a relapse reinforces the idea that fluency is within reach, a reality demonstrated by countless success stories.
The Post-Cure Program:
To shield yourself from relapses, continue practicing the three pillars of success: reading aloud and talking in stutter-free zones, practicing ASTs and/or SHTs, and relying on the crutches. Sustain these daily practices for several months, even after conquering Satan’s stuttering.
Why Prolonged Practice?
The fears associated with stuttering take time to fade away. While learning to avoid stuttering might happen relatively quickly, fears may linger for months or even years. Remaining vigilant and practicing the methods diligently ensures a smooth transition from stuttering to complete freedom of speech.
The Role of Crutches:
The Crutches are your steadfast allies on this journey. Armed with these tools, even the random threats of stuttering won’t cause fear. They act as a shield, preventing any appearance of a speech disability. Keep repeating positive affirmations, rejecting negative thoughts, and reinforcing the love for speaking.
Vigilance and Positivity:
Mastering the crutches doesn’t mean forgetting them. Regular practice becomes a habit, and with time, you’ll find that you rarely need them. Negative thoughts about speech should be dismissed instantly and replaced by positive affirmations. Guard your newfound freedom by revisiting Section ll.9, “Which Methods Help the Most,” and consistently applying the principles outlined in the book.
Conclusion:
As you navigate life after stuttering, remember that relapses are not inevitable. With dedication, daily practice, and a dash of positivity, you can keep Satan stuttering at bay. Cherish your ability to speak freely, confidently, and joyfully. Here’s to a life liberated from the clutches of stuttering—may your words always flow smoothly! 😊
