In the same way that an actor can have a moment of stage fright before the curtain goes up, facilitators sometimes experience a similar sensation before taking our place in front of a group. Although we do not necessarily enjoy it, the truth is that pre-performance anxiety comes with the territory. The challenge is to recognize what it is and to be prepared with a few coping strategies.

Let us first consider the positive meaning of stage fright. It is a sign that we are living beings —not robots— about to embark on a participatory process for which, by definition, we cannot predict the outcome. Even though we have done our best to plan an interactive agenda that will produce the results desired by the group and/or its leader, it is always possible that our plan will fail.

In the end, the group is in charge of its own destiny and is free to reject or radically transform our beautiful plan. ARRGH!

Faced with this level of uncertainty, a little stage fright is understandable. As long as the fear does not paralyze us completely, the adrenaline rush can be useful.

So what are the options?

In the moment

  1. Breathe. This is a good time to take a deep breath and remember why you are there. Connect your feet to the ground and give thanks for the opportunity to serve the group.
  2. Take Rescue Remedy. This mixture of five Bach flower remedies helps in any stressful situation in which you need to regain balance and get control of your anxieties.
  3. Activate your spiritual support network. Discretely invoke the images, colors or sounds that are your sources of calm and confidence, asking for their guidance in this difficult moment.

Preventative measures

  1. Establish a collaborative relation with the event organizer (your client). In conversations prior to the meeting, become familiar with the concerns and aspirations of the group. Get agreement on the agenda design well in advance, and to the extent possible, identify potential sources of resistance, conflict or other challenging situations that might arise.
  2. Establish a relationship of trust with the group. Clearly explain the parameters of the facilitator’s role and your intention to support the group’s process without intervening in the content they will work on. Ask them to help you do a good job. If a member of the group suggests ways that you could improve your performance as a facilitator, say thanks and if possible, immediately correct the error.
  3. Take classes in improvisation.

One last piece of advice

Remember this refrain from The Facilitator’s Prayer
Grant me the faith to trust the Process
Give me the love to trust the Group