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Mirror Mirror
Hints for efficient practice
- Read through the text before you begin.
- Stand in front of a mirror, but far enough back so you can see your head and feet.
- Work at being relaxed.
- Stand with feet slightly apart and one foot slightly forward to prevent swaying and weight shifts.
- Hold your notes in one hand, with the other held naturally at your side.
- This posture may feel awkward, but looks natural and relaxed. Practice it.
- Breathe slowly and deeply, and speak from your diaphragm; project your voice.
- Practice making eye contact with your imaginary audience, but don't single out one individual -- a real person eventually will notice your attention, and end up squirming in his or her seat.
- Don't procrastinate when you're ready to practice. Take two deep breaths, then begin.
- Avoid looking at your notes when you don't need to do so.
- Watch your reflection in the mirror as you speak, looking for odd and distracting habits, such as pacing, twirling your hair, and adjusting your clothes.
- Make sure you are speaking to your audience, not to the floor, ceiling, or projection screen. Don't hide behind the lectern.
- Your words will probably be different each time you practice, but do try to stick to the general outline of your notes.
- Don't attempt to memorize your text; use your notes only as reference points to keep you on track.
- Think about the ideas, and your words will follow naturally. Speak slowly and clearly, and use gestures.
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