Steady Yourself: How to calm your nerves before a big event?
Keeping calm and carrying on is a lot harder than those posters make it out to be.
If you’ve ever found yourself shaking like a leaf before a big presentation or a job interview, you’ll know that the sudden bout of anxiety does more than cause your heart to pound and your hands to get clammy. It also leaves your mind in a frenzied state, which makes it tricky to calm yourself down.
You’re not the only one, anxiety is a common issue that all of us have faced when we’re under immense pressure. It is natural to feel nervous, especially when faced with high stakes. However the anxiety can be counterproductive. It can cause you to fumble and lose your words and make you look unprepared even if you are.
The next time you’re going to be put in the spotlight, don’t let your nerves get the better of you when it’s time for you to shine. We share five tips on how to banish jittery nerves when the going gets tough.
Exercise
Getting a good workout not only keeps you in shape, it also keeps you feeling positive as exercising releases endorphins into your body. Planning some time to get a bit of exercise can really ease your nerves with a dose of endorphins and help distract you from your worries.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can contribute to anxiety attacks; so don’t forget to take a few sips of water or an energy drink. Being hydrated also means you won’t suffer from cotton mouth – a syndrome which causes your mouth to run dry.
Use Restroom
That being said, remember to empty your tank before you take the stage! You don’t want to be squirming in your seat or hopping about trying not to think about running water.
Take Deep Breaths
This simple step is usually one people take for granted, but it has lasting impacts on your nerves. Steadying your breathing sends signals to the hypothalamus, which triggers neurohormones to inhibit hormones that cause stress.
Be Prepared!
Even all these tips will mean nothing if you’re not well-prepared. Having the foresight to prep for your speech or interview will give you less to stress out over when the time arrives.
Amanda Lim
Photo: Getty Images
