Whether it’s cold feet before a wedding or jitters before a job interview, nerves are completely normal. That being said, most people don’t like being nervous. Here are some ways to battle those nerves and keep your goal in sight.
1. Listen to music
Music is said to soothe the soul. In fact, a whole study was done on the calming effects of music. If you’re wound up, playing some soft, gentle music can help you to unwind. Perhaps this is why so many people like listening to music while they work.
2. Talk to someone
Expressing your nerves to someone else validates them and allows you to see them from another perspective. It could help you realize how you feel about whatever is causing you to be nervous. It’s never good to keep your emotions to yourself, and talking to someone can help relieve that stress.
3. Focus on something good
Sometimes it isn’t good to concentrate on the source of your nerves. Instead, focus on something positive about the situation: for example, after the interview, you may have a new job. Allowing yourself to see past the situation can help get rid of the butterflies in your stomach.
4. Prepare yourself
Perhaps it’s the big speech you have to give that’s keeping you up at night. If that’s the case, one of the best things you can do is to feel prepared. Practice what you’re going to do and gather any information you might need. Feeling in control of the situation will definitely help you feel better.
5. Accept the nerves
It’s okay to be nervous. In fact, it can even be a good thing. It means that you’re taking the situation seriously and that you think it’s important. It also means that you’re challenging yourself and going out of your comfort zone, which is what you need to do if you want to grow. Just because you’re nervous doesn’t mean that you’re weak or childish; in fact, it means that you’re testing your limits and growing stronger.
