From Consultant to Entrepreneur: This 19-Second Confidence Boost Changes Everything

After dedicating over a decade to McKinsey & Company as a consultant, I made the pivotal decision to venture out on my own. In 2013, with the unwavering support of my mother, I took the leap and founded Gravitas, drawing upon my life savings as the initial investment. It was a journey steeped in courage and hope.

At Gravitas, our mission is simple yet profound: to instill confidence through fashion and apparel. We create and sell garments designed not just to be worn but to empower the individual inside them. Complementing this, our media and content platform, centered around my best-selling book, serves as a beacon for those seeking to redefine their confidence.

As a founder, I’ve discovered that much of my role involves navigating uncertainty. It’s a thrilling yet daunting task. Through trial and error, I’ve identified a pre-performance routine that calms my nerves and enhances my focus. Wouldn’t it be incredible if every person could unlock that same sense of calm before important moments in their lives?

My purpose is to help people find their unique version of confidence

One method I’ve embraced is the 7-5-7 breathing technique, which I implement before any speaking engagement. I stumbled upon this practice in October 2016, prior to my debut on HSN. Since then, it has become an indispensable part of my preparation routine.

Drawing inspiration from yoga and popularized by Dr. Andrew Weil, this technique is deceptively simple and takes just 19 seconds to complete—done twice, it brings an unexpected surge of tranquility and focus. Each time I engage in this practice, I feel just a bit more centered. What if this small effort could transform how we approach our day?

The first time, you’re going to release negativity

As you settle in, close your eyes and inhale deeply through your nose for a count of seven. Hold that breath at the back of your throat for five counts, and then release through your mouth for another seven.

For your first cycle, think of a negative thought that has been weighing on you today—perhaps a disagreement with a family member, a challenging email you’ve been procrastinating on, or a conversation you’re dreading. Visualize this negativity as you exhale and let it dissipate into the air.

The second time, you’re going to welcome something positive

In your second cycle, as you inhale once more, reflect on your proudest moment from the past year. This can be personal or professional. For me, that moment often returns to a beautiful FaceTime call with my mother from Taiwan. There she was, at her temple, brandishing a copy of my book I had sent her, proudly displaying it for her friends. Can you picture that scene?

Fully immerse yourself in that moment as you breathe in, paying attention to how it felt, what it looked like, even the scents around you. As you exhale, open your eyes and remind yourself that you’ve reached this peak, acknowledging your growth and accomplishments. Remember, nothing happens by mere chance; you’ve earned this.

I do this with my audiences, too

The beauty of the 7-5-7 technique lies in its ability to ground not just yourself but those around you as well. Each time you reset your energy and focus, you’re reminded of the incredible moments in your life—moments that helped shape who you are today.

When feelings of insecurity or doubt arise, these two cycles can significantly lower your heart rate, enhance your cognitive function, and soothe your nervous system. They serve as a powerful reminder of a time you felt truly loved, strong, and joyous.

Whether I’m speaking to audiences of thousands or preparing for intimate discussions, I incorporate this routine every time—over 50 speeches a year, always inviting my audience to join me in this transformative experience.

Try it before anything that may make you nervous

I recall a particular instance meeting a kind woman backstage at an event, bubbling with nerves. I gently suggested, “Would you like to step over here and do the 7-5-7 with me?” Holding hands, we completed two cycles together, and a few weeks later, I received a message from her on LinkedIn.

She shared, “That was my first time presenting in front of so many people. It changed my entire talk. I felt so grounded and present, and it helped me incredibly.” How often do we underestimate the impact of a simple gesture?

You can apply the 7-5-7 technique whenever you feel jittery—whether before an online date, a big presentation, or during unknown situations at work. It’s a versatile ally in anxiety-ridden moments.

Incorporate this practice into your routine. Perhaps before bed or when you rise in the morning, you can harness its power, amplifying your self-belief and confidence.

Remember, the key lies in recognizing the significance of these peak performance moments. By doing so, you not only enhance your capacity to face challenges but also nurture a deeper understanding of yourself.

Let’s embrace the journey towards our unique versions of confidence, one breath at a time.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.