Improv(e) Yourself

29 Jun Improv(e) Yourself

Last weekend was Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. It was also Deborah’s birthday, so we celebrated both. Our gardens are blooming, which is a reminder to introduce something new into our regimen and rid ourselves of what doesn’t serve us. With gardens, new flowers delight, while weeds are the downside.

With speaking and presenting, there are two unwelcome and perennial weeds—stage fright and bad habits. And just as we prune and trim our outdoor plants, it behooves you to change bad habits and quell your stage fright. We suggest improving with improv.

Consider signing up for a playful improv class. Being vulnerable and not aiming to “do well” or “be perfect” allows you to fully participate. Introducing an idea or concept, then acting out the story through a character is what most of us did when we were kids. So, now you’re reviving that creative freedom we often lose as adults.

When you’re rehearsing your speaker content, take on a character as different from you as possible, like a Diva, Vegas Lounge Lizard, or Professional Wrestler. Mimic their language and behavior. And have fun. You’ll be looser, less serious, and able to release stage fright. Happy summer.