Public speaking can be daunting, especially for those who feel extremely anxious. Starting your presentation with a personal story about your own nervousness can break the ice and make it easier to connect with your audience. The benefit of this approach is that it humanizes you, making your audience more empathetic and engaged.
The way to do this is to share a brief story about a time when you felt really, really nervous. For example, you could say: “A few years ago, as I stood in front of my audience, I found myself trembling and sweating, and I could not say one word.”
By being vulnerable and authentic, you create relatability, showing that nervousness is something that we all experience. Plus, this technique can make you more comfortable, which allows you to transition smoothly into your presentation.
So the next time you feel like your nerves are going to be the worst experience ever, change your mindset, embrace your anxiety and let the audience know how you feel.
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