914: Turning Awkwardness Into Your Greatest Asset with Henna Pryor
Nov 9, 2023
41:59
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Henna Pryor, Workplace Performance Expert, Author, and Executive Coach, reframes awkwardness and shows how we can turn it into a superpower by embracing it. The podcast discusses the negative consequences of catering to others' expectations in the workplace, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of embracing awkward conversations around diversity and inclusion. It also explores how awkwardness can be seen as a strength, delves into the concept of cringe comedy and its effects, and provides strategies to transform awkwardness into a source of strength and power. Plus, it shares favorite quotes, books, tools, and habits related to embracing awkwardness for personal growth.
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Quick takeaways
Embracing awkwardness can lead to personal and professional growth.
Catering to meet the expectations of others diminishes workplace performance.
Deep dives
The Power of Embracing Awkwardness
The podcast episode explores how embracing awkwardness can be beneficial and lead to personal and professional growth. It highlights the importance of reframing awkward situations and using them to our advantage. The episode discusses the negative impact of avoiding awkwardness and the benefits of working out our 'awkwardness muscles.' The host also shares strategies for releasing discomfort that follows awkward moments.
The Impact of Catering to Expectations
The episode delves into the concept of catering to meet the expectations of others and how it can harm workplace performance. It cites research showing that catering behavior diminishes performance and leads to exhaustion. The host provides examples of typical workplace catering behaviors that drain energy and hinder performance, such as conforming to perceived expectations and avoiding awkward conversations.
Reframing Awkwardness as a Strength
The podcast episode discusses the process of reframing awkwardness and transforming it from a weakness to a strength. The host explains that awkwardness arises when our true selves momentarily clash with the image we believe others have of us. By embracing and getting comfortable with awkward moments, we can cultivate personal growth and take more chances in our personal and professional lives. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and conditioning our social muscles to navigate awkward situations.
Overcoming Awkwardness and Building Social Fitness
The episode introduces practical strategies for overcoming awkwardness and building social fitness. It suggests intentionally creating opportunities for small-stakes social interactions, such as striking up conversations with strangers or leaving phones aside during social moments. The host recommends habit stacking and leveraging humor strategically to navigate awkward situations. Additionally, the episode encourages individuals to pursue exposure therapy, such as taking improv classes, to fast-track their comfort with uncertainty and awkwardness.
Henna Pryor, PCC is 2x TEDx and Global Keynote Speaker, Workplace Performance Expert, Author, and Executive Coach. Her talks blend 2 decades of work with corporate leaders and teams, with a modern, science-based approach to taking more strategic risks and being braver in the work that we do.