Raise your hand if you’ve ever played a game of “Verbal Hide-and-Seek” during a speech!
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us!
Here’s what to do when you forget your words during a speech:
- First thing first – it’s natural to feel a momentary panic when your words slip away, but remember, you’re in control!
- Take a deep breath, pause, + collect your thoughts. Embrace the silence as an opportunity to regroup.
- Look for cues. Glance at your notes, slides, or props to jog your memory. They’re there to support you, so make the most of them!
- Keep it flowing. If you stumble over your words, don’t stress. Stay calm, continue speaking, + find a graceful way to steer the conversation back on track.
- Engage the audience. If you’re at a loss for words, switch gears + ask your audience a thought-provoking question. Their response might spark your next idea!
- Embrace imperfections. No speaker is perfect. Embrace any slip-ups + remember that authenticity goes a long way!
So, let’s normalize those little “slip-ups” + turn them into moments of growth + learning. Remember, it’s not about being perfect, but about connecting with your audience + delivering your message authentically.
Those unexpected pauses are opportunities for dramatic effect, not panic attacks! Embrace the pause + keep shining on stage!
My question for you is: What strategies do you find helpful to recover gracefully when you momentarily forget your words during a speech? Share your stories in the comments below or send an email to kahla@heykahla.com + let’s conquer the stage together!
–Kahla