The audience wants you to do well. Almost nobody shows up hoping the speaker bombs.

GRATITUDE

WHAT THIS MEANS

Stage fright runs on an assumption that is simply wrong: that the room is hostile and waiting for a mistake. People sitting in an audience are mostly uncomfortable on your behalf, hoping it goes smoothly so they can relax and listen. They are on your side before you open your mouth, and the only harsh commentary in the room is yours.

Before the next time you present, look at a few faces and notice nobody looks eager for a disaster. Assume goodwill and speak to one person at a time. When something goes wrong, keep going rather than apologising, because the room will follow whatever you do next.

A QUESTION TO SIT WITH

What do you imagine a room is thinking while you speak?

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