Public speaking can feel like navigating open waters—exciting, unpredictable, and sometimes a little nerve-wracking. Whether you’re giving a big keynote or just sharing ideas in a meeting, staying cool and confident is key.

My new book, SpeakerSHIP, is all about helping you set sail on your speaking journey with confidence. Just like a well-prepared sailor, a great speaker needs the right tools, mindset, and strategies to stay on course. Here are 10 ways to keep your nerves in check and steer your way to success when speaking.

1. Know Your Destination (Have a Clear Message)

Before a ship sets sail, the captain knows exactly where they’re headed. The same goes for public speaking—if you don’t know your key message, neither will your audience. Take time to define what you want people to remember before you even start practicing.

2. Prepare Your Ship (Practice, Practice, Practice)

No sailor leaves port without checking their boat, and no speaker should step on stage without preparation. Rehearse your talk out loud, record yourself, and practice in front of a friend or mirror. The more you prepare, the smoother your speech will sail.

3. Check the Weather (Know Your Audience)

A good sailor studies the forecast before heading out. As a speaker, understanding your audience helps you adjust your tone, examples, and approach. Are they beginners or experts? Friendly or skeptical? Tailor your talk to fit their needs and expectations.

4. Adjust Your Sails (Be Flexible When Needed)

Even with the best planning, unexpected things happen—technical issues, tough questions, or a sudden change in timing. Great speakers, like great sailors, adjust and keep moving forward. Stay adaptable and go with the flow when needed.

5. Drop the Anchor (Find Your Confidence)

When the waters get rough, an anchor keeps a ship steady. Confidence is your anchor when speaking. Find small ways to build confidence—deep breaths, positive self-talk, or a power pose before going on stage. The more you believe in yourself, the steadier you’ll feel.

6. Steer Through the Storm (Handle Nerves Gracefully)

Feeling nervous? That’s normal! Even experienced sailors get a little uneasy in high winds. The trick is to use that energy to fuel your performance. Take slow, deep breaths, focus on your message, and remind yourself that nerves mean you care.

7. Navigate by the Stars (Follow a Speaking Structure)

Sailors use the stars to stay on course. A good speech has a clear structure—an engaging opening, key points, and a strong conclusion. If you ever lose your place, knowing your structure will help you find your way back.

8. Trust Your Crew (Engage With Your Audience)

A captain relies on their crew, and a speaker should connect with their audience. Make eye contact, ask questions, and pay attention to their reactions. A strong connection makes your talk more engaging and memorable.

9. Keep Your Compass Handy (Stay on Track)

It’s easy to get lost at sea—or in a speech. Avoid rambling by sticking to your key points. If you feel yourself drifting off-topic, use a transition phrase like, “Getting back to the main point…” to bring yourself back on course.

10. Enjoy the Voyage (Have Fun!)

Speaking, like sailing, is meant to be an adventure. If you’re enjoying yourself, your audience will too. Smile, use natural gestures, and embrace the moment. The more fun you have, the more confident and engaging you’ll be.

Time to Set Sail!

Speaking doesn’t have to feel like rough seas. With the right mindset and preparation, you can navigate any stage with confidence.

If you’re ready to take your public speaking skills to the next level, my book SpeakerSHIP will help you chart your course for success. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned speaker, it’s time to raise your sails and share your message with the world!