Beforeevery show, Stuart Smalley (a feel-good talk show host on Saturday Night Live played by Al Franken) looks into a mirror and famously tells himself, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!”
While this is an exaggeration for the effect of comedy, the concept of “psyching oneself up” for a public presentation is very germane to the acquisition of executive presentation skills.
The term “nerves” usually refers to the flowing of adrenaline through the body, which can make one feel more alert and aware. That sensation, however, can fuel nervousness and anxiety.
We all know that feeling: one’s throat clenches, the shoulder muscles get too tight, and in severe cases, one’s legs might even begin to feel “shaky.” Many of these symptoms result from an overabundance of adrenaline coursing through the body as it prepares for a stressful situation. The antidote to this is no surprise: utilize techniques that are stress-reducing.
Stretching
Stretching is a terrific way to loosen muscles that have involuntarily tightened, and the physicality of stretching also dispenses some of the adrenaline that has accumulated in anticipation of a high profile speaking appearance.
Deep Breathing
This is a stress reducer because 1) wholly concentrating on one’s breathing makes it just about impossible to simultaneously worry about the upcoming presentation and 2) the physical exercise itself has proven itself to be one of the most efficient ways of reducing stress.
Deep breathing is simple enough: breath deeply in, count to ten, release, repeat until you feel calm. Keep your mind focused on the “count” – that pre-empts the temptation to worry about the presentation.
Attitude
Stuart Smalley notwithstanding, there’s nothing wrong with reminding yourself that
1) you know your stuff …
2) your audience really does want you to succeed and is on your side …
3) you’ve had the benefit of good executive presentation skills coaching …
Well, at least, I sure hope you have! Give me a call!!