Here's a mistake I see too many people making: When it comes to public speaking, they focus more on their content and less on their delivery.
Why is this a mistake? Because:
After your mind creates the content, it’s your body that must deliver it.
Public speaking is a full-body—head to toe—activity involving your voice, hands, face, feet and everything in between.
Presenting could even be called an Olympic event because delivering well takes physical strength, stamina and a lot of deep breaths. Like with any sport, when you prepare your body well, you perform better.
So, get your body in shape to deliver your message.
The next time you're preparing to speak, make sure you're warmed-up, well-fed and well-rested so your body can deliver your message. Here's how:
Show up Warmed-up
Warm up your body with some easy cardio (like a brisk walk) to get your blood moving.
For all you yogis, do a "downward dog," a few shoulder rolls and some side stretches to open your chest for easier breathing.
Warm up your voice by humming on the way to the venue. You'll have more of a resonant "radio voice."
Show up Well-fed
The best food is a light snack that's easy to digest, won't weigh you down and gives you energy. Bananas are the perfect pre-event food.
I always pack an extra fruit bar in case I can't find the right snack on location.
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Have water handy during your presentation.
Show up Well-rested
If you've rehearsed and feel prepared you'll sleep better the night before. However! Don't freak out if you have a restless night. You can still deliver on a less-than-ideal night's sleep.
To avoid rushing the morning of your presentation, lay out your outfit, shoes, and jewelry the night before. This will help you show up cool, calm and collected.
Here's to warming up your body so you can deliver your message! This illustration by Melinda Beck will help you remember.
