Presentation Anxiety: 3 Big Reducers
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Presentation anxiety is a normal part of most presenters’ experiences.
You have a goal. You know your audience. You have compiled and organized your content. You are determined to be a trustworthy guide for those who listen. Finally, you are ready to make a Big Presentation in a Small Room.
And now it is time to get up and deliver your message.
How are you feeling? Are you stressed? Do you have presentation anxiety?
HARNESS PRESENTATION ANXIETY?
It is not the stress that gets you; it’s how you think about it.”
What?
When I read that, I had to look at it again. And again. And again.
At first glance, it looks like a condescending dismissal of the reality of stress. And if it were just that, I would dismiss it. Maybe curse it first, then dismiss it.
But what if…
What if it is true?
That could prove beneficial to millions.
Stress is a daily reality in the work-life of countless people around the world.
One source of stress is presentations.
What if that anxiety could be harnessed so that it creates positive energy rather than painful distractions?
The possibility captured my attention!
Here is what I learned.
HARNESS PRESENTATION ANXIETY BY REFUSING OLD WISDOM
When considering an upcoming presentation, the old sayings regarding stress are not helpful. For many presenters, they can create additional stress.
For example, you have a presentation in 30 minutes. As you make your way to the meeting room, you tell yourself
“Keep calm and carry on.”
“Calm your nerves.”
“Don’t stress. Don’t stress. Don’t stress.”
Is it working?
