Overcoming Nervousness: How Kindness, Courage, and Simple Reminders Help Us Push Through

Introduction: You Are Stronger Than Your Anxiety

There is a moment before every presentation, meeting, or new responsibility when your heart races a little faster than usual. You feel the familiar flutter in your stomach and the sudden awareness of every thought in your mind. In these moments, it helps to return to a simple reminder: I am stronger than my anxiety.

This affirmation is more than a phrase. It is an anchor you can return to when life feels overwhelming.

The Reality of Presenting in a Post-COVID World

Public speaking has never been easy, but our new digital-first world adds a different type of pressure. Virtual meetings on Zoom or Teams require you to speak confidently to people you cannot always see. Some have their cameras on, others appear only as names on a screen. The silence can feel louder than a room full of people.

This environment can be unnerving, and many people underestimate just how much courage it takes to speak into a blank screen. A few days ago, I had to give a ten-minute online presentation to a group made up of familiar and unfamiliar faces. Even with preparation, the nerves appeared right on time.

When I First Realised What Nerves Felt Like

My earliest memory of true nervousness was during my driving theory test many years ago. Everything seemed fine on the way there, chatting with my instructor, feeling calm and prepared.

Then, as soon as I confirmed my name and sat down, it hit me.

Shaky hands. Dry mouth. Knots in my stomach.

That was the moment I thought, so this is what nerves feel like.

I remember telling myself quietly that there was no backing out. I had to face it, discomfort and all.

Helpful Anchors: Breathe, Smile, Slow Down

One of my favourite reminders is the gentle wisdom of Thich Nhat Hanh:

Smile, breathe, and go slowly.

It is simple, memorable, and grounded in mindfulness. These words help you pause long enough to realise that the moment may feel big, but you are bigger.

Humour can also break the tension. Someone once said, I do not suffer from anxiety, I rock it. Sometimes a little lightness is the very thing you need.

Smile, breathe, and go slowly. ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

And of course, the classic reminder: This too shall pass. Nervous moments are temporary, even when they feel all-consuming.

Kindness as a Way to Ground Yourself

Kindness has a powerful ability to ease tension. Whether you compliment someone or receive a compliment yourself, it strengthens connection. These small positive moments shift your focus away from pressure and toward presence.

So take a moment and reflect.

What has been the highlight of your day?

Did someone make you smile, or did you brighten someone else’s day?

Join the Conversation: Share Your Story

We grow through shared experiences. If you have ever faced nervousness, pushed through fear, or encouraged someone else during a difficult moment, we would love to hear it.

Share your reflections on:

Memriz.online and our Community of Kindness platform.

Your story may be the encouragement someone else needs today.

Final Thoughts

Nervousness is universal, but so is resilience.

You are stronger than your anxiety.

You are capable, even when you feel unsure.

And every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.

Have a lovely day.

Lola x