Many of my clients often ask me what to do when their hands start shaking during a speech. Often, this can create a lot of embarrassment on the part of the speaker, thus amplifying the symptom. The speaker’s thoughts begin to race “Oh my God, I’m falling apart”, “Everybody knows I’m nervous!”, “I want to jump out the window!”. OK maybe that last thought is a little extreme, but you get the point. Whether it’s red cheeks, a shaking hand, or a quivering voice, physical symptoms of tension can create a cycle of tension and judgement. How do you get off the wheel?

As always, acceptance is the key. First, keep in mind that often our perception of our verbal and physical tics is amplified and intensified during speaking, and is not accurate. That shaking hand may seem like a turbine in your mind, and a gentle fan in the minds of the audience! Try to keep things in perspective.

Second, be aware that what we resist persists. If you think your shaking hand is noticeable, try denying or fighting it and see what happens! Just give yourself the thought “there is no such thing as a perfect speech” and march right into that tension. Yes my hand is shaking! Yes my face is red! Yes my hair is standing on end! Whatever it is, remember that the moment is here, and the moment is all, so accept. Nothing is ever gained by resisting while speaking. If you are really bold, try making a joke out of it, “It’s hot out, so I thought I might bring a fan”, or “..now as you can see in this slide, the net profit numbers are highlighted in red, not unlike my complexion”. Be creative. Use humor. Always, always use what is coming at you. Johnny Carson was good when he was on, but he was great when he was off. He stayed in the moment.

Jeffrey Davis is the owner of Speak Clear Communications. He is an executive public speaking coach and accent reduction coach in New York City.

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