Take a Deep Breath.

We were assigned to give in-class presentations individually, and I was assigned to give mine on the first day that presentations were given.  We would give a five-minute presentation four times, but to a different audience each time.  I was nervous and did my best to practice as much as I could over the weekend so that I felt prepared.  Even after my preparation, I did not know if I had prepared in the “right” way and I felt nervous that I would mess up and get a bad grade.

I arrived to class early on the day of my presentation to make sure that I could find the correct room and to make sure that I would not be flustered for my first presentation.  I was able to set up my flip chart and go over my notes one last time before I started.

My first presentation was a little rough.  The audience could tell that I was nervous and I felt a little embarrassed because I knew that I could do better.  That’s when I decided that before the next few presentations, I would just take a deep breath and slow down so that I could think clearly and give the presentation to the best of my ability. The next few presentations were much better than the first, and I believe it is simply due to the fact that I was able to relax right before.  I took a deep breath; I tried not to think too hard about what I would be doing because I knew that I had prepared enough to give a great presentation.

Although I can apply the feedback that I was given to the next presentations I give, I can also apply what I learned about myself to my everyday life.  If I can just take a deep breath and try to relax before I do a challenging or stressful task, I know that I will perform better.  I will be able to think clearly and it will help me to perform to the best of my ability.