Levare Wellbeing Development

Nervousness Is Normal. Practice and Prepare!

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice... a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

Even the most seasoned public speaker can feel nervous on stage. The harder you try to conceal this nervousness, the easier it will likely show through. Yet, admitting that speaking makes you anxious can actually help put both you and your audience at ease. You feel a sense of relief because now the information is out there, giving you the ability to address your anxiety and move on.

Even in the image above was there nerves?

It was 400 people with high expectations from stakeholders. I think I'd be lying if I said there was absolutely no nervousness. However the difference once you gain more experience is what you do with those nerves.

Get to practice. No, do not try and fill an auditorium straight away. Get out and about with friends, take centre stage with colleagues, tell some stories over dinner. Be analytical of what comes out your mouth in front of others and you will naturally begin to gain a sense of confidence.

Happy New Year