It's Okay To Stumble

 Mistakes can happen. It is completely natural to have a few mistakes while performing or presenting in front of an audience. The major thing to keep in mind is that it is okay to stumble during a presentation. Mistakes can be made even by the most seasoned presenters. Remembering not to focus on the mistakes or stumbles that are made is an important key in avoiding stage fright.

 The main thing that needs to be addressed is not to stop every time you make a mistake. There is no need to tell the audience that you made a mistake in your presentation. If you just continue on with your speech or performance, your audience won't even realize that something was wrong. It is difficult not to react when you make a mistake, but the best thing you can do is just try to ignore the mistake or even improvise based on the mistake. No one will ever realize that you have made a mistake unless you stop and apologize for it.

 There isn't a single presenter who is completely perfect. Mistakes do happen. Some presenters will use the "ahs" and "uhms" to fill gaps in their presentations. I know that I certainly do this as well. For those who suffer from stage fright, this would definitely become a stressful situation. But instead of letting it get the best of you and your presentation, let it be a learning experience. We all learn from our mistakes. Do not look at the mistake as a failure in the presentation. Stay calm throughout the duration of the presentation and keep reminding yourself that it is normal to make mistakes. By staying calm and not letting the situation get the best of you, you are avoiding stage fright.

 The greatest way to avoid stage fright, when it comes to mistakes, is to accept them and move on. Everyone understands that people make mistakes. If you can manage to stay calm and not become anxious about whether your audience noticed the mistake, you are well on your way to completely avoiding stage fright. Always remind yourself throughout the presentation, to stay calm and ignore mistakes.

 Have you ever had a moment when you were doing a presentation and you made a mistake? Did you get really nervous after that incident? If you have, I would like to hear your story and how you overcame the stage fright of making a mistake. Please post your feedback in the comments section below. Thank you in advance for taking the time to provide feedback.

Sources:
Business Communication: Process and Product
http://www.wikihow.com/Overcome-Stage-Fright 
http://www.presentationadvisors.com/bouncing-back-from-a-presentation-mishap-part-1