Presenting is like any skill: the more you do it, the better you get. This applies to presenting abilities more broadly as well as individual speaking opportunities.

Before I present, whether I’m appearing on television or hosting an event, I always spend time planning and practising. No one wings a good presentation, and ensuring you’re familiar with your points is one of the most effective ways to feel prepared. You should also take a moment beforehand to remind yourself of what you’re trying to communicate, as that clears your mind and hones your focus.

I’ve spent over ten years presenting on television, and while I’m much more confident in my abilities now compared to when I started, I still feel nervous from time to time.

The thing that has helped me most when trying to overcome my nerves is breathing. Certain breathing exercises can calm your nervous system and slow your thoughts, which allows your mouth to keep up with your brain when you start talking. Being able to pause, recollect yourself, catch your breath and continue when you have a brain freeze is also very powerful.

Speaking of brain freezes… they happen to everyone, and they happen regularly. In the moment it feels like nightmare fuel, but I guarantee it’s worse for you than it is for those around you. Everyone else forgets about it very quickly, so don’t let it get to you.

If you find yourself in that situation, acknowledging it and laughing a little will put everyone at ease. The audience is supporting you during those moments, whatever the format or form, hoping you will find your feet and make your way through it.