Chelsea's 3 Top Tips for Overcoming Nerves on Stage

We've all been there: the butterflies in your stomach, the racing heart, the sweaty palms. Feeling nervous before a presentation is completely normal, even for seasoned speakers. But don't let those nerves hold you back!

Chelsea Pottenger, a renowned public speaking expert, shares her top 3 tips for conquering your stage fright:

   1. Understand Your Anxiety Triggers

The first step is self-reflection. What specifically triggers your anxiety? Is it the fear of judgment? Lack of preparation? Past negative experiences? When you can identify what your triggers are, you can then take effective steps to overcome them.

Journal prompts to help identify triggers

• What are my biggest fears about public speaking?
• In what specific situations do I feel most anxious?
• What thoughts or beliefs contribute to my stage fright?
• Have I had any past experiences that have negatively impacted my confidence?

   2. Create a Pre-Presentation Routine to Manage Stress

Consider both physical and mental preparation.

Example of Physical Preparation:

• Deep breathing exercises: Practice deep, slow breaths to calm your nervous system. You could also try science-based techniques, such as box breathing or the 4-7-8 technique to help calm nerves. 

• Light exercise: A short walk or some light stretches can help release tension and increase blood flow. Another great exercise to try is the wall sit. You can do this by standing flat with your back against the wall, and lowering your body into a position where your knees and hips are at 90 degree angles. Once the blood starts rushing to your legs, this helps to get you out of your mind and into your body! 
• Warm-up your voice: Practise vocal exercises to improve your projection and clarity. You can find vocal warm ups for speakers and singers on youtube and Spotify. 

Example of Mental Preparation:

• Visualisation: Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation, focusing on positive outcomes and confident delivery. You can do this in silence, to a guided meditation or with music! 
• Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations, such as "I am prepared," and "I can do this."
• Mindfulness Meditation: Practise a 10 minute meditation to centre yourself and reduce anxiety. Download FREE meditations here.

   3. Focus on Your Message, Not Perfection

Shift your focus from perfection to your message. Remember that your audience wants to hear what you have to say. Connect with them on an emotional level and share your passion for the topic.

When you find yourself feeling anxious before your presentation, take a moment to identify your, core message:

• What is the single most crucial takeaway you want your audience to remember?
• Why are you dedicating your time and effort to this topic?
• Who will benefit from your message, and why is it important for them?

Summarise your core message in a concise and impactful sentence.

Keep returning back to that core message, your why, and let it help you shift your focus from perfection to delivering authentically. 

Ready to take your public speaking to the next level?

Enrol in Chelsea Pottenger's online Unlock your Voice course and learn more powerful strategies for overcoming nerves and delivering captivating presentations.

Course Dates: Access opens March 3rd!

Special Offer:

For a limited time (January 24th - February 14th), enjoy 30% off!

Enrol Now!