Nervousness is a feeling of worry, anxiety, or uneasiness about something with an uncertain outcome.

Nervousness is totally normal. It often happens when stepping into situations that matter most. These include interviews, presentations, meetings, public speaking, exams, or performances.

A little nervousness can actually boost one’s performance. It can help sharpen focus. Yet, too much nervousness can be overwhelming.

What are the common signs?
These symptoms include:

• Sweaty palms
• Fast heartbeat
• Dry mouth
• Shaky hands or voice
• Trouble concentrating

The Triggers of Nervousness

Nervousness be triggered by different things depending on the person and the situation. The common causes are:

1. Fear of Failure
   Worrying about not meeting your own or others’ expectations is a major trigger. Fearing that you’ll mess up during a presentation or exam can trigger nervousness.
2. Uncertainty
   This a condition of not knowing what will happen or how things will turn out. This occur in a job interview, medical test results, or when facing change. It will often make people uneasy.
3. Lack of Preparation
   Feeling unprepared for a task or challenge can lead to nervousness. The mind senses a risk of underperformance.
4. High Stakes Situations
   Events that which carry big consequences like auditions, competitions, speeches, or important meetings can naturally cause nerves. These event carry themselves with a lot of pressure.
5. Past Negative Experiences
   Past experiences of failure or embarrassment in similar situations may trigger anxiety. You vividly remember these moments. They trigger anxiety to protect you.
6. Perfectionism
   People who always want things to be done perfectly can become anxious. They may worry about even small mistakes. This increases their nervousness.
7. Social Pressure or Judgment
   When one worries too much about others’ opinions, especially in public settings, they become self-conscious. This can make them nervous.
8. Biological Factors
   Some people are naturally more sensitive to stress due to their personality, temperament, or even genetic makeup.

How do you manage Nervousness?

Several simple steps can be deployed to manage nervousness. They include:

• Deep Breathing. Take slow but deep breaths to calm the nervous system.
• Positive self-talk. Keep on reminding yourself that you’re prepared and capable of getting what you want.
• Practice. If going for public speaking or performance, or interviews do more rehearsals. This will give you the confident you’ll need.
• Visualization. Another good approach is to picture yourself succeeding before you start.
• Staying current keeps you focused on the moment. It prepares your nerves on what is there instead of focusing on the what ifs.

Nervousness can be overwhelming but when is focused on the moment at hand it can be managed easily. So always focus on the target!

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