From reading life coaching and positive thinking books, I realised I had to become a far stronger person, more care-free and to have more respect for myself. The new me was a person that was only going to go to places that I wanted to – no more accepting second best for me. I was well aware that it would be tough to ensure that I kept up this new found attitude but I knew I had to give it my best shot.

I was soon to be tested, it was at one of my friends(Ian)houses. He is a very successful business man; he sells front doors for a living and can be quite an assertive person, he also works with a group of cost reduction experts. He and some of the other “boys” had organised an evening out for the following weekend. There were numerous reasons why I did not want to go out on that particular night. Ian soon asked if I was interested in going out to which I answered in the negative.

That answer was not enough for him and he proceeded to question my reasons for not wanting to go. I felt all of the eyes of the people present descend on me and I felt quite awkward. Normally in this situation I would give some excuse but instead I asked him why I needed to give a reason and why my answer of no was not enough for him. He seemed quite shocked at my strong response and moved on to question and nag someone else.

I am now a much more assertive person myself and I am pleased to report that I have now managed to overcome the stutter thanks mainly due to the expert therapy offered at the How To Stop Stammering Center in Birmingham.