Some people have a great ability to keep the head under pressure in front of others. They steer their focus away from a feeling of risk and doom, to one of being in the moment - performing in the same way as they had mentally rehearsed their performance. And of course, with more experience, the easier it is to (in the words of Adam Ant) stand and deliver!

A coaching approach to keeping your head when under the spotlight:

Tip 1: Use your strengths

So you're completely in the deep-end and everyone's looking, what's one strength you have that you can rely on at this time?

Tip 2: Tap your success capital

Yes, this is challenging, but have a think of all the other times you've delivered in front of people. This is evidence that you can rise to the occasion.

Tip 3: Run through the ideal scenario in your mind

How do you want this to go? What's the perfect performance? How will you carry your self?

Tip 4: You're not going to die

Will you be breathing if it goes wrong? Yes? So how bad is it really?

Tip 5: Give yourself a Jolly Good talking to!

What's the most useful mantra to be having whirling around in your head right now?

Tip 6: Use the force Luke!

Clear everything from your mind that's not useful, focus on the best outcome, then push even that aside and find your FLOW i.e. be in the moment, engage and trust yourself!

About the author

David Savage is a Leadership Coach based in Wellington New Zealand. He uses a brain based methodology that fast-tracks learning and development that gives his clients the tools and templates to increase their potential and meet their ambitions.