What 100+ Speaking Gigs Taught Me About Fear
I just gave a keynote to 350 executives, and it reminded me of something important.
I am nervous every single time I present to an audience.
Table of Contents
My Experience
I have done 100+ speaking gigs, from keynotes to fireside chats to panels.
Yet no matter how many times I do it, the nerves are always present.
The Mental Game
I used to psych myself out about the anxiety.
“What if my mind goes blank?”
“What if I pass out on stage?”
“What if I notice people are bored while I am talking?”
I would be lying if I said those intrusive thoughts were still not present.
But I try to do my best to redirect myself with three ideas that give me calm right before I step on stage.
Three Calming Ideas
1) Everyone poops: we are all human.
We have all experienced fear, embarrassment, and shame.
No one is immune and these feelings are core parts of the human experience.
To feel these things is normal, and better yet, is a sign of growth.
2) This opportunity is a gift.
The idea of getting paid to get better at persuasion is an incredible gift and one of those lossless games I will play every day of the week.
3) The spotlight effect.
If I miss a line on stage or stumble over my words, I will always ruminate more about my mishap than anyone who was watching me.
Conclusion
If you are given the opportunity to speak to a crowd, do it.
Everyone gets nervous doing it, no matter how calm they seem on stage.