What do you do if your confidence falters after a public speaking setback?

Rather than seeing the setback as a failure, consider it an opportunity to fine-tune your skills. Break down the experience into actionable takeaways—what went well and where you can improve. Then, apply these insights to your next opportunity. Confidence is built over time, and bouncing back from setbacks is vital to becoming a stronger, more resilient speaker.

Getting to the root of why you are struggling will be very helpful. Is it about you, the message , delivery or some stupid technical issue? If you are able to understand the source- you'll fix it. Some people may be more gifted than others but EVERYONE learned to speak:) Whatever you may have missed, you can uncover, clear up, practice and improve . Do not give up on yourself and on your message.

If your confidence falters after a public speaking setback, it’s important to bounce back quickly. Start by analyzing what went wrong objectively. Identify areas for improvement without self-criticism. Practice your speech again, focusing on those weak points. Seek feedback from trusted peers to gain perspective. Reframe the setback as a learning experience. Gradually rebuild your confidence with smaller speaking opportunities. Remember, every great speaker has faced setbacks and grown stronger from them.

Use a setback as an invitation to grow and reflect on how you prepare and execute as public speaking opportunity. What went wrong? Did you fail to connect with your audience? Did you get cocky and slouch on preparation? Have you failed to evolve your normal schtick? Are you bored with your own delivery? A set back is the best opportunity for growth in the area of public speaking, if you are able to take it that way as opposed to just taking a hit.

Ever wonder if your worst critic is staring back at you in the mirror? When your confidence takes a hit after a public speaking setback, it’s easy to spiral into self-doubt. But here’s the game-changer: turn to constructive feedback. Start by asking specific questions—what resonated, what fell flat, and where your delivery could be stronger. Take notes, and reflect on the input. Then, rehearse with these insights in mind, refining your approach until you feel prepared. Also, record yourself practicing and review it critically. Notice body language, tone, and pacing. Identify small, achievable goals for improvement. Progress, not perfection, is key.

Like performers do dress rehearsals and athletes do race run thoughts, you need to dress up and show up in the ‘arena’ where you will be speaking, and practice there. If eye balls staring at you stress you out, project a video loop of a large audience on the screen, face it and keep talking. You can do the same in a virtual setting. The point is not only to practice but practice in the setting and context in which you will be speaking.

Next game mentality! I’m a former athlete so I relate a lot of life challenges to sports challenges. Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Serena Williams — these are all incredible athletes that’ve had bad games, but bounced back! My coach had a saying: Next Game Mentality. If you have a bad game - it’s okay…don’t dwell on it. Look forward to your next opportunity! The unfortunate reality in sports is there isn’t always a NEXT game, but as-long as you don’t quit in your speaking journey there will be an additional opportunity to make impact and connect with your audience despite your previous slip up. Reevaluate the speaking film, spend time fine tuning the areas of improvement, and get ready for your NEXT GAME! Hope this helps!