When the Mic Failed, So Did I (Whoops!)

Sometimes, things happen. I stepped up to the mic and Murphy's Law threw me a fast one. The microphone malfunctioned and a glass shattered right beside me. 

And then, my speech derailed. 

My brain emptied.
Discombobulation personified. 
Three seconds? Three hours? I still don't know.

I'm a professional speaking coach, and not a single word was readily available. I vividly remember the loud silence. 

Could my mortifying, sudden mummification have been avoided? Most likely.  

If hindsight had a voice, it would be mocking. 
"Do as I Say, Not as I Do"

Daniel McGinn writes in his book, Psyched Up that studies show people who use a well-conceived and consistent routine perform better than those who don't.

-Tony Robbins, speaker and life coach, jumps on a miniature trampoline before going on stage.

-Stephen Colbert high-fives his team backstage.

-LeBron James forms 330 with his fingers - the area code of Akron. 

Me?

• I teach it in every training I deliver. 

• I insist it makes a difference.

• And it does. 

Do I have a routine? Absolutely. 

Did I practice my two-minute routine before being frozen in time and space by shining glass shards and a mic that forgot how to mic?

You already know the answer. NO.

TALK TIP FOR EVERYONE INCLUDING ME!

1. Do a Mic Check. In fact, do it every time.

2. Exit the room if possible: 

• Do something to release physical tension. Scrunch all your muscles, from your eyelids to your toes, and let it all go. 

• Use the power of your breath to settle your nervous system.

• Hum happy birthday to warm-up your vocal chords.

• Call upon your "inner-coach" to set an intention and give yourself a rousing, "Let's go!"

By being deliberate with this two-minute practice, you've recalibrated your state of being.  You are now more capable of being present and adaptable [even when the mic fails or the glass breaks].

Now you're ready - let's hear that awesome speech.