Do You Ever Feel Overwhelming Stage Fright Before a Big Event?

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers on the feelings of stage fright and anxiety experienced by participants before hosting cooking shows. Several individuals share their personal experiences with nervousness and strategies for coping with these feelings.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses significant anxiety before a show, feeling unprepared due to limited practice and past negative experiences.
  • Another participant shares their experience of feeling nervous before shows, noting that their anxiety often subsides once they arrive and start interacting with guests.
  • Several users mention the importance of humor and relaxation, suggesting that participants should embrace mistakes and enjoy the experience.
  • One participant reflects on their journey to building confidence through teaching quilting, which helped them feel more comfortable during kitchen shows.
  • Another participant discusses the value of feedback from guests during early shows, highlighting how it can foster a supportive environment.
  • One participant shares a tip about practicing recipes before shows to build confidence and ensure successful outcomes.
  • Another participant mentions using visualization techniques, such as picturing a future vacation, to alleviate anxiety before events.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best ways to cope with stage fright, with some participants emphasizing humor and relaxation, while others focus on preparation and feedback. No clear consensus emerges on a single effective strategy.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of experiences from consultants at different stages in their business, highlighting the commonality of feeling nervous before public speaking engagements.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who experience anxiety before shows or are looking for shared experiences and coping strategies may find this discussion relevant.

hmolah
hmolah
Messages
376
I have a show tonight, and after only having 3 cooking shows in the past year, I'm not as practiced as I'd like. I've been surviving until late, on catalog shows. :( Anyway, I have a show tonight, and I don't even have to leave for 3 hours, but I'm so nervous I could throw up!!! :eek: :( :o There is going to be 11 guests, and then the host. I've revamped my show outline, and even have note cards to help me throughout the night, but I'm trying to pick up my business so much, and I have a lot of pressure on myself to make this work! I'm sure that has something to do with it, but my last show was HORRIBLE, and I'm just afraid of a repeat! I was dropping food on the floor, and couldn't find my words, and my face was beat red, etc etc. I'm so nervous, that I almost wish I could just stay home in bed and hide under the covers! Does anyone else get this nervous!? This is ridiculous that I'm so bent out of shape!

I keep praying that I'll calm down before I get there....
 
I would start my show by telling my guests that I'm starting to up my business and what I did in the past year and that I'm really nervous. Also, tell them WHY you are increasing your business and putting yourself through this. What do you want out of it? How are you going to get it? Then just relax and pretend you are talking to friends!
 
Oh my gosh I know how you feel. When I don't do a show for a month or so I get that way too!! It is a horrible feeling. Mine usually goes away though on the way there or once I get there and start chatting with the host. I have a show Sunday, and I haven't had one for two months!! I've been doing catalog shows too becaue no one had time during the Holidays. I will be feeling your pain then!
 
HAHA, I do, I do, and I speak in front of employees all the time...go figure. Then I just jump up and say.....Come on you big baby..they ain't gona bite you..and the worse thing that can happen...they don't order....


or you pee your pants...LOL Just kidding. You'll do fine!!!!!!!!!!
Just think of us cheering you on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
In the beginning I was like that too.... but where I have been teaching quilting for the last 11 years, I found I was building more and more confidence with standing in front of people I didn't know. I was very knowledgeable with my sewing/quilting/sewing machines, that I could take on anything. If I didn't know I would let them know I didn't know and would find out and get back to them. I am more comfortable now with my kitchen shows as I use my products every chance I can and think of what I want to say while I"m working by myself in my kitchen.
Just breathe and have fun... it will work out!

Thinking of ya!

Cheers
 
Just have fun and laugh at yourself if you mess up. They will enjoy themselves.
 
Just remember... everyone is so happy that it's you up front and not them!

Relax,have fun. If you drop something, or make mistakes, just joke about it and go on.

You can do this.
 
PamperChefCarol said:
Just remember... everyone is so happy that it's you up front and not them!

Relax,have fun. If you drop something, or make mistakes, just joke about it and go on.

You can do this.
Click to expand...

I keep telling myself that..but I don't remember anything. I can talk organization and compliance and quality...No problem..but this is so new...so out of my box. I feel like a fish out of its pretty tank...flopping all over our stoneware....LOL
Do my job what??? Book a show??? My tongue feels like it is huge and just won't get out of my way...:D
 
During my first 6 shows, I told everyone I was just starting out, and needed their feedback, after the show. I asked them for suggestions, and to vote on whether they liked the recipe, etc. One person pointed out that I used a knife and put it back into the holster when it was soiled, and she worried about cross-contamination. Another suggested that I wear gloves. My husband caught me licking my finger and thank God it was him, and not a guest! If they think they are helping you, and you can handle suggestions,
it is a cooperative effort, and I did not feel threatened. For the most part, the feedback was very complimentary, and encouraging.

The best suggestion I can make is for you to audition the recipe before the show. Know how to make it, and have the confidence you need that it will turn out all right. Make it more than once, if you have doubts. Your audition ingredients are tax deductible. Enjoy a new recipe once a week, and write it off. If you don't love it yourself, don't make it for a show.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Thank you all so very much! I really appreciate it! My director told me to just picture myslef on that Caribbean cruise next April! I think that will help some! I'm so glad that we all have this board to go to in a time of need! Thank you so much. :D Be sure that I will be thinking of you guys too! ;) I'll need to remember this pick-me-up!

THANKS AND WISH ME LUCK! :D
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you ever feel overwhelming stage fright before a big event?

Yes, many people experience stage fright before big events. It's a common feeling, especially when you're about to present in front of an audience or showcase your products. Acknowledging this feeling is the first step in managing it.

What are some effective strategies to overcome stage fright?

Some effective strategies include deep breathing exercises, visualization techniques, and practicing your presentation multiple times. Familiarizing yourself with the venue and your materials can also help reduce anxiety.

How can I prepare myself mentally for a big event?

Mental preparation can include positive affirmations, setting realistic expectations, and focusing on the message you want to convey rather than on yourself. Reminding yourself of past successes can also boost your confidence.

Is it normal to feel nervous even after preparing?

Absolutely! It's completely normal to feel nervous despite thorough preparation. Many experienced speakers still feel a level of anxiety before events. The key is to channel that energy into enthusiasm for your presentation.

What should I do if I freeze up during my presentation?

If you freeze up, take a deep breath and pause for a moment. It’s okay to collect your thoughts. You can also have a backup plan, like a note card with key points, to help you regain your focus and continue smoothly.

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