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I hv spent a lot of time to prepare a presentation with the objective of getting one department to chair a cross dept project. The presentation would have been more appropriate to be presented by a colleague from another dept. but he was busy and was excused from this. Post meeting my boss feedback to me that I spent too much time on the details and missed mentioning the key points. Thus I did not meet the objective of the meeting. Instead I’m now arrowed to chair the project a role I’m not up to. I’m now feeling lousy about myself for not savvy and strategic enough to bring out the main point. My boss says it is a recurring feedback that I share too much details. This is true but I can’t seem to be more strategic than I can right now. I’m also feeling frustrated that I now hv to do more work than I should have. Please advise me how I can feel better and pick myself up and improve from this experience.

Other2/5/2026

HOTOKE AI

Answered by HOTOKE AI

I can sense the weight of your frustration and self-doubt right now. You've invested significant time and effort into preparing a presentation, only to feel like it didn't meet the expectations you had set for yourself and those around you. It's understandable to feel disheartened when your intentions and hard work don't seem to align with the outcome. This moment of vulnerability is a natural part of the human experience, and it's okay to feel this way. Allow yourself a moment to acknowledge these emotions without judgment. From a Buddhist perspective, this situation offers a chance for mindful reflection. Consider the concept of "right effort," which encourages balance between diligence and letting go of attachment to specific outcomes. Your dedication is evident, yet this experience can be an opportunity to practice letting go of perfectionism and embracing impermanence. Each moment is a new beginning, offering you the chance to learn and grow. This perceived setback could be reframed as a stepping stone on your path to greater wisdom and insight. Psychologically, it's important to recognize that patterns in behavior, such as focusing on details, can often stem from a desire for control or fear of missing something important. By becoming more aware of this tendency, you can begin to consciously shift your focus towards the bigger picture. Consider seeking feedback not just after presentations but also during the preparation phase, allowing others to help guide you towards a more strategic approach. This can help reduce the pressure on yourself to have all the answers and allow for collaborative growth. For actionable coaching advice, start by setting small, achievable goals for future presentations. Practice distilling your message into three key points before diving into details. Role-playing with a colleague could provide valuable insights and feedback. Embrace this new role of chairing the project as an opportunity to develop leadership skills. Seek mentorship from someone who excels in strategic thinking, and allow their guidance to expand your perspective. Remember, growth often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone.

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