Do you have restless speaker syndrome?
Here is a great tip from my wise coach and mentor Jim Dawson. He and I were in a class watching a newbie presenter pace back and forth during their delivery. A nervous but very distracting habit. Even experienced speakers can fall into this unconscious pacing.
Jim suggested that they should try practicing while standing and lightly pushed against the back of a stationary chair placed in the center of their practice space.
They then would begin to get used to the feel of not moving. The stand and deliver strategy.
There are plenty of reasons to move about your space when presenting. These movements can add drama and dynamics but should be done with intention as a supplement to your words.
Standing can be an acceptable substitute especially if the only other option is wearing a path in the carpet as you anxiously pace back and forth.
If that is your problem – get a chair and give it a try as your practice.
