You Make It Look So Easy

Do you remember the last time you had to stand in front of a group of people and explain a concept or share an idea? Did your palms get sweaty? Did you have anxiety for hours, maybe days before, thinking about the humiliation you may be subjected to? Did you decide not to eat before the presentation in case you were not able to hold it down? It may sound ridiculous, but EVERYONE has had this experience one time or another. If they tell you they have not, then they have not been challenged enough.

I joined Toastmasters two years ago despite the fact that I had experience presenting in front of large groups of people. The first time I gave a speech to the 10 people in attendance, I was anxious and could barely concentrate until the 6-8 minute speech was done. The people in the room said, "You make it look so easy." Really? I was faking it the entire time! I was just hoping I remembered to keep my knees bent so I did not faint in front of these people. 

The truth is that no matter how many times you speak in front of people you get a little anxiety over the thought of forgetting a key point, mispronouncing a word, or absolutely becoming tongue tied. It is said that with practice comes perfection. The key is practice. There are several things I have learned from Toastmasters: draft it, write it, practice it, and then time it.

I can make it look easy. But easy is not the message I want portrayed. I want it to be heard not seen. If I am going to expend the time to craft a lofty vision or share an inspirational moment, then I want the words to be what people remember, not me sweating or passing out from the lack of oxygen. 

Hence, my tip of the day: Write the word "BREATHE" between paragraphs.  Then at least if you can not remember your key point, you will remember to get some air.