Today we learned about giving presentations. Our hands are meant to tell our story. If we don't use our hands properly, then they become a distraction. We should use our hands to emphasize what point we want to make. They show that you are about to say something important and that everyone should listen up. The best place for our hands when we are in a neutral position is down by our sides. It is okay to put one hand slightly on our waist or in our pocket, but the best is both hands down.
There are some big no-nos. One is called the fig leaves, that is where you clasp your hands together down in front. This can be okay for a moment, but don't stay there the whole presentation. Another one is the drill sergeant, that is where you clasp your hands together down and behind you. When we get nervous, we tend to want to hold onto something so we hold our own hand, but that shows that you are nervous.
Remember even if we are nervous, we need to "fake it, til we make it." Giving presentations brings us back to the point, that we need confidence to make people believe what we are saying and to effectively communicate. If we are a genius, but speak monotone, no one will get to hear what we have to say. Our message will be a waste of time.
This is something that I think everyone has a problem with to a point, it is natural for someone to fall into following habits (since we are creatures of habit). The most important thing is to push past your comfort zone so that you can be a more effective presenter.
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