Stress Awareness: Drop the Mic...but don't!

Hello my readers! This is post # 2 in my series of Stress Awareness Month postings. I originally had a different topic in mind but we all know life dictates our decisions. Beginning with last week's introductory post, I plan to explore common ways we stress out and tips, articles, and suggestions to reign victorious!

Now to the title of this post. When you hear the expression "drop the mic", that references making a fierce point that leaves no room for interpretation. You know, you are in a debate and you make such a case that it leaves the other person silent, as in they literally have no comeback. Well, when it comes to public speaking, most people would rather drop the mic and literally run out the door.  It's so bad that it's officially a condition called glossophobia.

So why is this so stress-inducing? This anxiety affects people at different levels, whether you are an extrovert or an introvert.  In some cases, I think it's a fear of being judged/ridiculed, fear of failure, lack of confidence on the topic or with the audience, uncertainty, and/or all of the above.
Now I actually enjoy public speaking.  It's weird because I will be so nervous before I begin but once I do, it's a thrill.  Granted my dream career was broadcast journalism (oh, deferred dreams!) so I've always envisioned myself in front of a camera.  I've also been a tour guide, so I'd say  What helps me conquer the sweat and stomach churns is preparation, practice, and pizazz.  Let's break it down!

• Preparation- I believe in researching your topic to the high heavens!  When you're confident in what you're speaking about, nerves may ruffle you but won't be able to break you down. You've got this.  Jot down your bullet points and use those as a helpful guide (and not a crutch).  Even the most seasoned speakers use an outline and even if they never reference it, it's available.  There is no shame in glancing down at notes or if it's an interactive presentation (PowerPoint), reading from slides.  However, you want to rehearse so that you can find the sweet spot of content, delivery, and connection with your audience.  Which brings me to...

• Practice- We all know the ways from our days of school presentations.  Note cards, in front of a mirror, in front of family, etc.  When you're an adult, sometimes those options aren't always available.  I believe in running through your presentation first on your own, with someone you trust to give you honest and constructive feedback, and then again on your own incorporating the honest and constructive feedback.  Honest and constructive being the key.  You don't want someone to just lie to you to make you feel good nor someone who is so critical that you lose the confidence you just gained from your preparation.  If you have a nervous habit (shaking hands, voice quivering), recognize that and think about ways you can manage these habits.  For voice quivers, you're likely not breathing properly, so rehearse your breathing.  If you look down alot, practice your eye contact at specific points in your presentation.  Just as you practice your content, you should also incorporate how to be relaxed.  The human brain can store a wealth of information and thoughts, it's amazing!

• Pizazz- Find a way to make a presentation uniquely you.  Even in business settings, you can do this.  We are all perfectly different.  Remember, the majority of people feel nervous and the people who are listening can identify and likely trust you as a source! 

Think about the best presentations you've heard, what did you enjoy about them?  What are the strengths?  Public speaking is a skill and I believe we can all learn to find comfort with it.  Even if you manage to avoid it, at some point you'll have to likely talk in a group setting.  It's natural to feel nervous and stress out but let that be the motivation.  If you make a mistake during your presentation, simply address it with a clarifying remark or just move on.  It will take time and practice but in time, you will get better at it.  Just keep your head up and keep trying!

Check out this Mayo Clinic article with excellent tips: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/phobias/expert-answers/fear-of-public-speaking/faq-20058416

Don't stress...live, learn, and live inspired!

Stress Awareness Month- April 2015

Happy April 1st!

April represents many things.  For many of us, it is the gateway to spring.  The weather is warming up, flowers are beginning to blossom, and people are trading the dreary colors for bright and vibrant ensembles.  That all sounds good right?  Well, this time of year can also represent stress.  The pace of work is increasing, the kids are on break / have exams / prom, etc on the horizon, travel prices are steadily rising or you've just been holding in the stresses from winter.  Does this sound like you?  I know it sounds like me.   We're in luck!  April is Stress Awareness Month.

Let's define stress.  According to Merriam-Webster, stress is a state of mental tension and worry caused by problems in your life, work, etc. or  something that causes strong feelings of worry or anxiety.  When I hear people speaking about stress (myself included), it often refers to the first definition--a state of mental tension and worry.  As the graphic above shows, many other negative feelings go right along with stress.

So how do we combat these feelings?  Speaking from my own experience, the first step is to identify the stressors in life and determine how they can be managed.  Notice I didn't say eliminated completely.  Depending on what causes you anxiety, it may not be easily removed but it CAN be managed.  Every week this month, I'm going to focus on some of the most common stress factors and share my thoughts on how to survive and thrive!  I hope you'll follow along with me.

In the meantime, here is a Huffington Post article detailing what stress is NOT.  Interesting read: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/03/stress-myths-busted-misconceptions-causes-symptoms_n_2974643.html

What are your thoughts on stress?  How do you manage?  I would love to read your comments.  You can also connect with me on Twitter (@MsVibrantLady).