Your boss calls. "Any volunteers for the next presentation?"

"NOT ME!"

Right? If you're like most of the people on this planet, volunteering to present in front of a group is not on your 'must-do' list. So, hiding under a rock and slinking down in your seat may be your first urge. This is the first thing that pops into your head.

But wait. This could just be force of habit.

If it is, here's a taste of what you are not saying:

"Oh Yes! I'll do it! This is an opportunity for me! This is an opportunity to communicate my point of view. This is my chance to shine."

Sure, you still dream about being the leader. But you're hiding out in a cave. You're hiding behind habitual words.

BIG MISTAKE.

Hiding in the cave of "NOT ME" is a really bad idea.

It's habits like these that guarantee you won't get noticed. And you won't move ahead in your career.

You know what leaders do to get ahead? Presenting ideas!

You know what you need to do to get ahead? Presenting your ideas!

So, let me ask you a question.

Haven't you had enough with spinning your wheels, working like crazy but not being recognized? Isn't it time to kick these two words "NOT ME!" out?

Fire them. Toss them out. Hey, while you're at it - torch them.

Why do these five letters "N-O-T-M-E" have so much power? Why is it so easy to keep wrapping yourself in the chains of these five letters?

Between you and me, it's just plain and simple. Force of habit.

This is how you stay in the background. It's how you guarantee no one will think of giving you a promotion. It's a rock solid recipe for a dead-end career.

Even if you are brilliant. Even if you are the very best person for the job. If you don't get comfortable giving presentations, no one will know you exist.

"NOT ME" is how you stay the victim.

"NOT ME" is how you stay in the sidelines and never get a promotion. "NOT ME" is how you paint yourself into a corner - and go nowhere.

So instead of risking all that pain and suffering, get ready. One of the easiest and fastest ways to get ready is to watch videos and get comfortable with the skills of presenting. You can watch free videos on You Tube.

But, as I often say, you get what you pay for. There's only a certain amount of insight and practical tips you'll get for free. If you want to really hardwire your skills and transform your career, get professional training.

Get the skills and tools you need so you can jump up the next time your boss calls out, "Any volunteers?"

It's time to take your own destiny in your hands.