Presentation Tip

No matter how much time we seem to spend preparing, no matter how much time we spend crafting a speech, no matter how many times we have spoken in public before stage fright can always catch up with us.

With this in mind, here are Evolve's Top Ten Tips For Reducing Stage Fright

1. Take the focus off yourself and your fear and put it on your true purpose, which is to contribute something of value to your audience.

2. Stop scaring yourself with thoughts about what might go wrong. Instead, focus your attention on thoughts and images that are calming and reassuring.

3. Refuse to think thoughts that create self-doubt. Instead, focus on thoughts that build confidence and trust in yourself.

4. Practice methods to calm and relax your mind and body, such as deep breathing, yoga, and relaxation exercises.

5. Practice healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercising and eating healthy. Stay away from caffeine, sugar, and alcohol.

6. Visualise your success. Always focus on your strengths and your abilities to handle other challenging situations.

7. Prepare ahead of time. Practice aloud so you hear your own voice and are confident you know your material.

8. Make connections with your audience. Smile and greet people, and treat the audience as friends rather than enemies.

9. Stand or sit in a self-assured, confident posture. Remain warm and open and give your audience eye contact.

10. Give up trying to be perfect and know that it is okay to make mistakes. Be natural. Be yourself.