I used to think nervousness meant I was not ready to present.

And I focused on that feeling of nervousness, and what it meant.

Does it mean I am not a good presenter? Not qualified enough? That I will tank my talk?

It means I am human.

I also thought a lot about how I could switch it off.

Until I realized – I do not have to.

That feeling of a racing heart, sweating, dry mouth, shaky voice… is very, very normal.

Unpleasant, maybe. But normal. And actually beneficial. Because it can help me perform better.

It serves as fuel that makes my talk more exciting.

So I stopped focusing on the fear itself and how it makes me feel.

I embraced it.

Instead, I started focusing on what actually matters – what I can do for my audience.

How can I make a compelling story that sparks curiosity?
How can I deliver it in a way that connects with the audience?
How can I make my presentation as good and useful as possible?

Because if I give my audience something of value, they are not going to care that I was nervous.

And neither should I.