You are backstage.
Palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms heavy.
In other words: You’re just plain terrified. Stage fright has got you in its grip and it’s squeezing hard.
Public speaking is the monster under the bed for grown-ups. It’s that universal fear that sends shivers down the spine of some of the boldest leaders.
Their powerful voices suddenly feel weak. Their decisive stride seems uncertain. Their usual commanding presence fades into doubt. Backstage, the bold leader is no longer a tower of strength.
Almost certainly, you’ve been hit with advice to conquer that fear. But in my experience, most of that advice actually achieves the opposite. It doesn’t make you feel less nervous but more.
Huh? More nervous? Let me explain …
Often, it’s quite a beast in terms of things you have to consider and do in the correct order: Deep breaths, power stance, eye contact, pacing, how to hold your hands, how to stand, when to smile, …
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg …
What’s worse is that all of this is on top of actually having to remember what you wanted to say. (Not to mention: actually saying it.)
I’ve never seen it work well. Not only does this advice not eliminate stage fright. As I said, it actually adds to the stress.
Which is why I prefer a very different approach that I hope can change the game for you, too.
In 16 years of working with leaders who went on stages, large and small, this is the only approach I’ve seen that has consistently led to improved confidence in front of audiences.
I’ve turned it into a free eBook: Speak Easy – 4 Steps to Total Confidence in Your Communication.
It’s a short read with a pretty unusual take.
If you haven’t done so already, download it here: https://michaelgerharz.com/speak-easy
PS: Please share this with someone you know who struggles with stage fright. I hope it can be a game changer for them.