Permit me, this is a “thought-in-text-podcast”
The idea for this short piece was derived after watching the GOAT deliver a speech at “The Grammys”. He made so much sense that his nervousness was not an item. If you are a fan of Jay, you will probably agree with me to want to argue that the least individual to have some bit of nervousness on stage will be Shawn Corey Carter. This guy has said and done it all. From performing to millions on stages to museum free-styling in front of regular individuals – he made wordsmithing feel like artwork; a good work of art. He gave us some lines those years. if you know, you know!
Can such a guy be nervous? Should such a guy be nervous?
Watch the video before I spill me thoughts
Now to my take on public speaking. Often feared and avoided due to the apprehension it brings. It is a skill that demands both courage and vulnerability. The jittery feeling before stepping onto a stage is a common experience that goes round and must go round. As a matter of fact, you are never going to be too big for it. So, rather than viewing nervousness as a hindrance, it can be reframed as a natural response to the importance of the moment.
In this article, lets look into why it is okay to be nervous in public speaking, while emphasizing the significance of effective communication and meaningful expression.
Nervousness, far from being a sign of incompetence, is often an indication of the significance one attaches to the task at hand. It’s a physiological response to the adrenaline rush that accompanies stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Recognizing and acknowledging nervousness can serve as a catalyst for growth, pushing speakers to prepare more diligently and engage more deeply with their audience. Moreover, nervousness humanizes the speaker, making them relatable and authentic in the eyes of their listeners (That means to say, na human being dey dey nervous). The GOAT was receptive of it and also drew strength from his daughter! So whenever, you are going on stage, be certain to identify your source of strength. Forget “don’t put your hands in your pocket” gibberish. If in that moment of the intense heat, your strength is in that right pocket of yours, go for it! The antidote is to be open to it, ensure you have something meaningful to say, take your time and be intentional in the way and manner you relay your story. At the end of the day, it is storytelling.
Okay, lets not get carried away.
While nervousness is permissible and even expected, it must not overshadow the essence of public speaking: effective communication. The true measure of a successful speech lies not in the absence of nerves but in the clarity and impact of the message conveyed. Speakers must prioritize understanding their audience, structuring their content coherently, and delivering it with conviction. Meaningful communication fosters connection, inspires action, and leaves a lasting impression long after the nerves have settled.
So what will be my recommendation to emerging successful even when nervousness is sure?
Don’t be open to speak on what you don’t know (that is a call to hyper-nervousness). If you have to, then move to the next point.
Preparation: Be prepared! this helps to build confidence and reduces anxiety. I am not one for writing speeches. I would rather identify what needs to be passed across and speak freely in the moment but ensuring there is clarity of thought. So if preparation for you is writing your speech, rehearsing, memorizing it then flow with it. Know your style and never be muscled into another persons style. From the speech you watched above, I believe you will join my bet that Jay knew what he was coming to say – perhaps not a written speech but knew the anchors in his message and found a way to deliver them as best as he could.
Engage with the audience: Shift the focus from internal worries to external engagement by actively connecting with your audience. Make them a part of the conversation, get them to give you a chance. It seems people like anticipation, passing mild joke about self.
Embrace imperfection: Accept that nervousness is a natural part of public speaking and embrace it as a sign of growth and opportunity. Ensure you have your source of strength, your own antidote at that moment of nerves. I know mine, find yours.
In conclusion, nervousness should be viewed not as a barrier to effective public speaking but as a companion on the journey towards mastery. By embracing the jitters and focusing on meaningful communication, speakers can harness their nerves to deliver impactful presentations that resonate with their audience. Remember, it’s okay to be nervous; what truly matters is the sincerity and clarity with which you communicate your thoughts and ideas. So step onto that stage with confidence, knowing that your nervousness is a testament to the importance of the message you have to share.
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#Curiosity #Findings