It takes many skills to be a presenter. And resilience is one of them.
In her recent article in The New York Times, Eilene Zimmerman answers the question “What Makes Some People More Resilient Than Others?” Using Zimmerman’s article as a base, we’ll look at how her list coincides specifically with becoming more resilient when it comes to public speaking.
What is Resilience and Where Does it Come From?
Zimmerman says, “Resilience is the ability to recover from difficult experiences and setbacks, to adapt, move forward and sometimes even experience growth.” For many people, public speaking would qualify as a “difficult experience.” Some try to avoid it at all costs. And I get it. It is tough to stand in front of an audience and risk embarrassing yourself. But we strongly believe that everyone should feel confident enough to present his or her ideas to others. So we need bravery to start with. And we need resilience when it doesn’t go exactly has we had hoped.
Here’s what experts have discovered about where resilience comes from. Zimmerman says, “An individual’s resilience is dictated by a combination of genetics, personal history, environment and situational context.” But she goes on to say that the portion that genetics contributes is very small. So there is more proof that we become resilient rather than being born resilient. Researchers have noted specific patterns in people who are resilient. Here are the traits resilient people seem to share, all of which can help us become better speakers.
A Positive and Realistic Mindset
Negative self-talk is one of the most damaging things a public speaker can do. Studies have linked it to mental health issues, like depression. But when it comes to giving a presentation, it can also keep you from reaching your potential. Author and wellness coach, Elizabeth Scott says, “Focusing on negative thoughts may lead to decreased motivation as well as greater feelings of helplessness . . . Negative self-talk can lead to a lowered ability to see opportunities, as well as a decreased tendency to capitalize on these opportunities.”
To become more resilient, focus on what is good and on what is going right. For example, say your boss assigns you to be the lead on presenting a new product to your coworkers. You might be tempted to think of how stressful it will be or how you could blow it. Instead, focus on the fact that your boss chose you over other employees. That means she has confidence in your abilities. This is how resilient people tend to think. Read more here about getting into the right mindset for your presentation.
A Strong Moral Compass
People who demonstrate resilience also tend to have strong feelings about what is right and wrong. This larger understanding helps to pull them through difficult situations. Tied to this is often a system of belief in something greater, as well as a dedication to serving others. When faced with challenges, these types of moral convictions help to strengthen and direct resilient people.
When it comes to public speaking, it can help to see your presentation as a service to others. If you have information that can help or guide or improve, remind yourself that you have something valuable to offer others. Let your commitment to service and doing what is right help you overcome any nervousness or hesitation you have.
An Understanding of What They Can and Cannot Control
Resilient people don’t waste energy focusing on things that are out of their control. Instead, they spend their energy on the things they can change. To get through a rough season of her own, Zimmerman says she decided to narrow her thinking. Instead of being overwhelmed by the big picture, she narrowed her focus to what she could do in each moment. That kept her from getting stuck or wallowing, a condition often referred to as learned helplessness, as coined by psychologists Martin Seligman and Steven Maier in 1967.
Go back to the earlier example. Your boss asks you to take the lead on a new product presentation. You start worrying about what your coworkers might think of you. But that is wasted energy. It’s not something you can currently control. And you can get overwhelmed if you think of everything that needs to happen between now and presentation time. Instead, focus on the first thing you need to do. And then the next. And then the next. That keeps you moving forward and it makes you resilient.
All of this should encourage you. By studying and then emulating the patterns of resilient people, you can build resilience. And when you build it, you can tackle presentations with more positivity, focus, and confidence.
Ready to learn more about how Ethos3 can help you tackle your next presentation?
