When I have to give a presentation, to calm my nerves, I do the unthinkable....?

Question

....I drink a couple of shots of alcohol. I'm pretty sure this isn't allowed at work, so can anyone recommend an alternative to calm my nervousness prior to speaking????

Answer 1

Talk to yourself in private in front of the mirror...often! If possible, give your presentation in front of the mirror often or just talk about subjects you know in the mirror. If possible, present things in front of family or friends who will laugh at you enough to make it a little uncomfortable, but not enough to make you not do it.

I really advocate for the in private and in the mirror things...no one is a harder critic on you then you will be, so if you can get through looking yourself in the face and giving a presentation, you definatly can do it in front of other people.

Also force yourself to do things that make you uncomfortable often. The ability to handle being uncomfortable is the only way to become comfortable. Talk to strangers...even though we are not supposed to.

Finally, a real practical tool for giving a presentation, especially if it is in writing, or if you have notes is looking ahead. You should know your material well enough that you could speak as well as glance ahead to see what is coming. This will keep you way more focused. If you ever played music, this is something musicians do all the time...by the time their notes come out of their instruments, theirs eyes are bars ahead in the music...this provides physical as well as mental readiness for any bumps in the road.

Another great trick is stopping often to ask if people understand what you are saying or the point you are making. Generally, they will nod and say yes, or start talking and turning your presentation into a discussion. If they say yes, then take that brief moment to breath and relax...trust me, they are impressed that you asked. If they turn your presentation to a discussion, cut back in when you are ready and relaxed...sound like you know everything and that you have so much to teach them, and begin back into your presentation. You will look like a great speaker and they will think it was a great presentation because they got to speak. People are pretty shallow, and generally will like you if you get them talking about themselves, or what they feel.

Good luck...and trust me on the mirror thing...if you can't do something alone in private, you will never be able to do it when you are not in private.

Answer 2

U arent confident in what you are doing. Yu need t o be more precise ..Get off the booze if you are confident you wont need the need in alochol. Take a tylenol.. nothing less than that. YOu seem like a sure foot. footed woman so i am asking why do you need the help of alco..? Just go in there and present your best . Clear headed. I am sure you will do good without a couple of shots. Do this for me if no one else. YOu will be glad that you did. Rooting for you sweeite.!

Answer 3

This is an age old problem. I wish tell you what happened to me/I did to get over my presentation fright. I was forced to take a speech class in college and since then it doesn't bother me.

But, something that may help, if you see yourself as an actor/actress, look at the presentation as if you are performing on stage.

Answer 4

Try repeated rehearshal before doing the presentation or use a mild sedative to calm your nerves.

Answer 5

Obviously it's vodka.
Some people know, and they will tell.
You really can't hide these types of things.
Take care of the drinking first.
AA, counseling, willpower, whatever.
You can't move forward until you rectify the present.

Answer 6

beer instead of shots. a single pint. it doesn't mean you're alchoholic. it's not like you'll have a presentation everyday.

Answer 7

It's all in you're breathing.