Rehearsal by Surprise: A Real-Life Lesson in Visualization

At a recent TEDx event in Oman, I found myself in an unexpected situation. Slated as the final speaker among 12, I hadn’t yet taken the stage when an important moment arrived: the award ceremony, presided over by the Indian Ambassador to Oman. Due to time constraints, he needed to leave early — which meant all the speakers, including me, were called up before my talk had even begun.

What seemed like a logistical hiccup turned out to be a gift. Standing on stage, feeling the lights on my face, facing the full audience — I got a taste of the environment I was about to enter, without the pressure of performing just yet.

By the time I returned for my actual talk, the stage no longer felt like foreign ground. My nerves had calmed. I’d already been there. Already seen it.

This is the power of visualization — or in my case, accidental exposure. Whether you’re speaking at a major event or giving a team update at work, mentally or physically rehearsing in the environment can dramatically reduce anxiety. Try it. Step into the space. Imagine your success. You might just trick your brain into feeling ready — because you already are.