Matt Abrahams

Well, it would be incredibly embarrassing, it would be awkward, and it might have some short-term implications.

But who in their life hasn't been embarrassed

been in situations that are awkward and had short-term implications.

So when you put it in that context, all of a sudden blanking out isn't as likely as you think, and it's not as bad as you think.

That reduces the stress you have about doing it, which reduces the likelihood.

So by not memorizing and rationalizing, you can actually reduce the likelihood of blanking out.

Now, let's say the worst happens.

You blank out.

You don't know what to say.

First and best thing to do is just what you do if you lose your phone or lose your keys.

Retrace your steps.

Repeat what you just said.

Most of us can remember what we just said, and then that gets us back on track.

If that doesn't work, the final ripcord I think you can pull is to distract your audience.

What does that mean?

Ask a question.

This will happen to me.

I teach the same class a lot.

Sometimes I can't remember.

Did I say this this time?