Checklist for Overcoming Nervousness

It’s important to remember that everyone gets nervous. We all know the stresses of starting a new job, making a big move or having to speak at an important meeting. While a little bit of nervousness is fine, sometimes it can seriously keep you from being your best.

Here are a few ways to overcome your nerves and get back on track:

Talk It Over – I recently had my very first book signing for Listful Thinking. A couple days before I found myself getting a bit nervous and panicked. I started hoping that no one would show. I spoke it over with my interns and they helped me calm down. I realized I was just really excited and once I relaxed I was able to enjoy the event. Talking things out with friends or family is a great way to put things in perspective and really work out the butterflies in advance.

Be Prepared – I believe in always having a plan B. The more you can minimize potential problems the less nervous you feel. If you have a big meeting or a job interview coming up you should do your homework so you won’t feel put on the spot.

Be Realistic – When nerves are building, sometimes the best thing to do is take a step back. The reality is probably not as bad as you think. Remember that people aren’t paying as much attention to you as you think.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep – Having a full night’s sleep is so important for helping you feel relaxed. But it’s much easier said than done. Getting a good night’s sleep could start by going to sleep earlier, or switching the phone off so it’s not a distraction during the night.

Visualize a Positive Outcome – Sit for a few minutes and think about all the best possible outcomes. Close your eyes and really place yourself there. What would it feel like, sound like, smell like? Take yourself to that happy place and you’ll be so much more likely to actually get there.

How do you deal with nervousness?