Managing Your Nerves

When I was a senior in high school, I trained endless hours in hopes of qualifying for the state swim meet in the 200-yard freestyle. I made the qualifying time mid-season in a dual meet, but I still had to qualify at a regional meet in the postseason. Physically, I was more than ready. I devised a race plan with my coach, and I was in prime swimming condition. I was ready...or so I thought. When I stepped onto the starting block, I realized my preparation was not enough. Mentally, I was woefully unprepared for this moment. The bleachers were packed. I could hardly hear the officials over the cheering crowd. And the swimmers to my left and right were seeded faster than me. My nerves completely hijacked me. I lost all sense of the moment, and before I had time to take a deep breath, the starting gun went off. I was last off the block, swam one of my slowest 200-yard free times of the year, and did not qualify for the state meet.

Fast forward to the morning of my webinar just a few weeks ago. My stomach was in knots with the thought of presenting to a faceless ZOOM for an hour. I needed to manage my nerves without eliminating them completely. I know that the right amount of nervousness keeps me sharp and in the moment, but I was not going to let them hijack me like they did 32 years ago! This time, I had a plan. 

My nerve management plan:

1).   Meditate for 10 minutes before logging on to Zoom. 

2).   Make a list of the people and their qualities that I want to channel and then transfer my list to sticky notes and stick them around the edge of my computer screen as a visual reminder. For example: Amy-calmness, Rebecca-smart, and quick, Laura-dynamic, engaging, and personable presenter

3).  Visualize myself standing with confidence, talking slowly, and being authentic.

My plan turned out to be just what I needed. I had the right amount of nervousness to keep me on my toes without losing my composure and confidence. 

Do you have an event coming up that you feel nervous about?

Let’s figure out what three strategies might work for you to channel your nerves for the good!