Nervousness

All of us at one time or another have felt nervous. Perhaps we have a big presentation coming up before a group of people important to our company. Maybe we are about to take a test that will determine whether we advance to a higher level in school. The examples of situations that put us on edge are many. They all revolve situations where, on some level, we are being tested and the outcome is uncertain. Without question, it is an uneasy feeling that few, if any, particularly enjoy. After all, who wants to step into a situation where we might fall short, particularly in the eyes of others? Given that this happens to all of us from time to time, what is the best way to deal with it? What can we do about it?


Being nervous represents a feeling that comes largely from a fear or concern of diminishing one's self in the front of others. Such a concern is universal, understandable, can compromise one's ability to communicate, and, at times, inevitable. Depending upon the specific circumstance, this feeling can be so intense that it can even be debilitating. While I have no magic cure or preventive measure to offer up, I do have a few suggestions that might help put feelings of nervousness into a more manageable perspective.


Nervousness is neither good nor bad. It is akin to feeling cold when one steps outside in cold weather. The answer to that, of course, is to wear a heavy coat and gloves. Regarding feelings of uneasiness, collecting as much knowledge about the subject which one is about to address is a major help. Plus, learning as much as you can about the audience to whom you are going to share this knowledge is another key ally. The good news is that while the results or outcome of any situation may be unknown, what any of us can control is our level of preparedness. This can and does help the communicating we are about to do in any dicey situation as well as raises our level of confidence, helps neutralize our nervousness, and improves the chances of a positive result.