How can you project an air of confidence when you’re feeling the exact opposite? Our nervy situation fixers could just provide the tips you’re looking for …
The situation: An interview for an amazing job
How to nail it:
*Forward planning will ensure you give the interview your best shot. Get your outfit ready the night before, ensure your resume is up to date (and print out several copies to take along), and rehearse some likely Q&As so you’re prepared for any curve balls the interviewer throws your way.
*Be enthusiastic about wanting the job, but don’t gush. If you go on about how this is your dream job and you’ll absolutely die if you don’t get it, you risk coming across as all talk, no substance. Choose your words carefully, deliver them with sincerity, and they’ll know you’re keen.
*Don’t panic, because you could end up rambling your answers. Remember: the reason you got an interview is that you’re considered to be a likely candidate for the job. So have the confidence to tell the interviewer why you’d suit the position.
The situation: Meeting the future in-laws
How to nail it:
*Don’t overdo the sweetness – it’s probably best to save the bear hugs for the engagement party or once you’re better acquainted.
*Even though you’re nervous and keen to make a good impression, try to be yourself. If you behave differently to how you normally would, it could be a hard act to keep up, especially if you end up marrying the guy!
*Get your partner to tell you about his parents’ interests, so you can fill in any awkward breaks in conversation with an appropriate question or comment.
*It’s always appreciated if you take a gift when you’re invited to someone’s home, but don’t go over the top. Flowers are safe, but if you want to be more personal, ask your partner about his mum’s favourite things (such the brand of hand lotion she likes). You might earn extra brownie points for your well-thought-out gift!
The situation: Feeling uncomfortable with your post-baby body
How to nail it:
*Don’t set yourself unrealistic expectations. Being a new mum can be challenging enough without worrying about how your body looks. Plus, the time you once had to exercise will now largely be taken up with caring for your baby. You’re probably totally exhausted, too, so don’t put pressure on yourself to start exercising until you’re ready.
*There’s no way your post-baby body is going to slip back into those pre-pregnancy jeans straight away. So leave them in the wardrobe for now and wear what’s most comfortable.
*Remember that those stretch marks are there because you lovingly carried your child inside you. They may fade, but even if they don’t, look at them as being beautiful battle scars (like laugh lines adding character to your face)!
*Once you are ready to get moving, try bub-friendly exercise like walking with the pram in the park, or mums ‘n’ bubs yoga or personal training classes.
How do you overcome situations in which you feel really nervous? Do you have a mantra you repeat, or certain rituals you go through before you go forth?
