Do you dread public speaking? Transform nerves into confidence with strategies from actor Lorena Bernal
Public speaking can be intimidating, especially if you feel unprepared. In my experience, the key to delivering a powerful presentation starts with preparation. But it’s more than just knowing the material – it’s about aligning with the message you’re sharing.
Public speaking becomes easier when you take the focus off yourself and place it fully on the message
As someone who has stood on global stages in front of thousands, spoken about topics ranging from parenting to spirituality, hosted TV programmes with live audiences, led workshops as a coach, and acted in both TV and Hollywood films, I’ve learned that preparation is essential – not just in mastering the material but also in preparing yourself mentally and emotionally.
When you’ve put in the work, you can trust yourself, let go of the need to control how others perceive you, and instead focus on the purpose of your message. This allows you to deliver with confidence, free from the fear of judgment.
Here are my key tips for delivering a powerful, authentic presentation:
1. Prepare with intention
Preparation underpins every good presentation. Some of us will need more, others less, but no one is exempt from the process – and it’s not just about the technical side; it’s about grounding yourself in the purpose of the message.
Just as an actor learns their lines and develops a deep understanding of their character, a speaker must familiarise themselves with their material. Whether you’re giving a keynote speech or hosting an intimate workshop, spend time with your speaking notes and familiarise yourself with your core message. If you deeply understand the topic, it might just mean organising your thoughts or structuring your talk. If it’s new or complex, you’ll need to rehearse and immerse yourself in it. Only once you’ve thoroughly prepared can you confidently detach from the thinking mind and trust that you’re ready.
Try this: Use preparation as a time to connect with your purpose. Don’t rush through it. Instead, be mindful of the privilege it is to share your message. Rehearse not just the words but also the energy you want to convey. Gratitude for the opportunity can transform nervousness into excitement.
2. Detach from your mind and connect to your heart
As an actor, my focus is never on performing – it’s about authentically living the character’s emotions and reactions. To do that, I have to detach from my thinking mind, the part that constantly wonders: “Am I doing this right?” The same applies to public speaking. If you focus too much on how you’re being perceived, you’ll become distracted by anxiety. Let go of the need to be perfect, and, instead, surrender to the message you’re delivering.
Before stepping in front of your audience, pause and detach from thoughts like “How will they see me?” or “What if they don’t like this?” Let those thoughts go. You’re not there to perform for approval – you’re there to deliver something meaningful. There is nothing you can do right or wrong, just be authentic. Trust that whatever comes out of your mouth will be what needs to be shared.
Try this: Just before you speak, take a few deep breaths, close your eyes, and silently ask for guidance. This helps quiet the mind and centres you in the present moment, ensuring that your words come from a place of truth.
3. The message over the messenger
The most important part of any presentation is the message, not the messenger. Public speaking becomes easier when you take the focus off yourself and place it fully on the message. Don’t worry about how you’re being perceived or how polished your delivery is. What matters is that your audience leaves with something valuable – an idea, an insight or a shift in perspective. When you believe in the message, you naturally speak with purpose and clarity.
Try this: Instead of worrying about how you look or sound, remind yourself why this message is important. Align with the deeper meaning behind it. When your focus is on what you’re giving, not on how you’re being received, everything becomes more fluid and authentic.
4. Remember: Your audience is human too
Many speakers make the mistake of putting their audience on a pedestal. The truth is, most people are just as nervous about public speaking as you might be. Your audience isn’t there to critique you – they’re there to listen, learn and connect. They’re not superior to you, and you don’t need to “win them over” by being perfect. The more you relate to them as equals, the more relaxed and confident you’ll feel.
Try this: Release the need to impress. Your audience is human, just like you. They’re not there to judge you – they’re hoping to gain something from your message. Focus on connecting, not performing.
5. Trust in your uniqueness
In a world that values authenticity, there is incredible power in showing up as your true self. You don’t need to emulate anyone else or adopt a specific style of speaking. When you trust in your uniqueness, you project confidence. Vulnerability is not a weakness – it’s a strength that shows your audience you are comfortable in your own skin.
Try this: Ground yourself in who you are before your presentation. Remind yourself that you don’t need to be better or worse than anyone else. Your uniqueness is your greatest asset, and the audience will respect and admire you for showing up fully as yourself.
6. Reframe your emotions
Finally, remember that emotions are just energy. The physical sensation of nerves is the same as excitement – the difference lies in how you interpret it. By shifting your perspective, you can turn fear into enthusiasm. Embracing that shift can energise your presentation and make the experience enjoyable rather than stressful.
Try this: When you feel nervous, tell yourself: “I’m excited.” Recognise the physical sensations as your body preparing for something important and energising, not something to fear. This simple reframe can shift your whole experience of public speaking.
It works for me, it can work for you!
Public speaking isn’t about performing perfectly or being free from nerves. It’s about preparation, presence and trusting in your authenticity. When you focus on the message, detach from your thinking mind and connect with your heart, you’ll find that public speaking becomes not just easier but deeply fulfilling. Trust in your uniqueness, reframe your emotions, and remember that your audience is there to receive, not to judge. These practices have transformed my experience as a speaker, and I hope they do the same for you.
Lorena Bernal is a certified life coach, spiritual life coach, actor and founder of Live Love Better
