Just fake it till you make it.
How often have you heard that?
I get that it can be of value in some situations such as public speaking, but I can’t imagine if I wanted to be a race car driver or gold medal winning downhill skier that by just faking it, it would guarantee my success.
Fortunately my thing is public speaking coaching so it is advice I can offer my clients that I know works.
If you’re super nervous, fake it ‘til you feel it. Nervous speakers are easy to spot. Their voices quiver, their breathing is shallow and they seem endlessly flustered. Though it is natural to feel a little nervous, overt anxiety can give the wrong impression.
Faking confidence when speaking in public can be achieved by…
- Standing up straight
- Walking with authority
- Smiling
- Possessing a zen-like mindset
To counteract your panic, feign self-assurance. Remember the five P’s. Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will feel when standing in front of an audience.
Remember…
- Focus on past successes
- Perception is projection
- Every time you speak it is a learning experience
Best wishes till next time.
Janeen
P.S. To join other up and coming speakers at a public workshop on Professional Presenting click here
