239  Overcoming Fears I — Dealing with Stage-freight

239.1 Perspective

One of the most

A change in perspective

The two greatest concerns

We begin with understanding both the physical and emotional states we experience when faces with the prospect of public speaking.

A nervous reaction prompts an increase in pulse as our heart starts to race, and our muscles tense. Along with butterflies in the stomach, which may prompt a visit to the WC, are sweaty palms, armpits and faces flushed red.

Dimensions in Physical State

The greatest misconcption is that any of these sensations — aside from being uncomfortable or embarrassing — are “bad”. Most attempts to prepare for a presentation circle around trying to assuage these physical changes. That isn’t an entirely misguided path, but it does lead us astray if followed blindly.

The interesting part here is the combination of tools to both calm the mental and physical states.

Breathing techniques are a common recommendation. Slowly and deliberately inhaling and exhaling, with eyes closed until the body calms. Counting each breath, or counting slowly backwards, is an additional tool to focus the mind. One student recalled a technique she was advised to calm her before presenting. Take the fleshy muscle between the thumb and forefinger, the purlicue, between the thumb and forefinger of your dominant hand and slowly massage it with your thumb in a circular motion. In a sense, any activity that focuses the mind on a repetitive task.

Dimensions in Emotional State

Putting these two dimensions together reveals a divergent path. One side takes advantage of both of physical and mental states and the other fights them.

Dimensions in both Physical & Emotional State