Have you ever been mid-presentation, everything flowing—the execs are engaged, the tech is cooperating—and then…
Your mind goes completely blank.
Yeah, me too. It happens to the best of us. That’s why I wrote you this short scene—to capture that moment and show you a way out. Let me know if it sounds familiar.
And if you’ve ever found yourself in that spot, I’ve also included a short video at the end with some additional tips to help you recover smoothly.
GOING BLANK, written by me for you
The fluorescent lights hum softly overhead. A projector casts your carefully crafted slides onto a large screen at the front of the conference room. A dozen executives sit around the long table, eyes on you, waiting.
You’re mid-sentence, in the flow, when suddenly—
Nothing.
The words vanish mid-thought.
Silence.
You grip the clicker a little tighter. Someone shifts in their chair. A few heads tilt, expectant.
And then—you have a little chat with your brain:
Brain: Uh-oh.
You: What?
Brain: We’re blank.
You: No, we’re not. I was literally mid-sentence.
Brain: And now… you’re not.
You: Okay, no big deal. Just rewind. What was I saying?
Brain: Couldn’t tell ya. But everyone’s watching.
You: Wow, super helpful.
Brain: I try.
You: Alright, options. Check my slide? Take a sip of water? Maybe—
Brain: Just pause. Own the silence.
You: Right. Deep breath. Steady eye contact.
(A slow inhale. A calm exhale. A beat of silence stretches… then clicks.)
You look at the execs, “Let’s take a moment with that last idea. Because this next part builds on it.”
Brain: Ohhh, nice save.
You: Thanks, I’ve been taking improv classes.
Brain: It’s paying off.
You: Now, where were we?
Brain: Next slide. You got this.
You: Right. And… we’re back.
Ever had that moment?
Here’s a short 2-minute video with a few more solutions for the next time you go blank during a high-stakes presentation!
If you want to handle those blank moments with confidence, join Confidently Speaking! You’ll gain practical tools to handle high-stakes moments, think on your feet, and command attention.
We meet Wednesdays and Fridays—perfect for hands-on practice and powerful growth. No pressure—just growth, fun, and support in a safe space to sharpen your speaking skills. ✨
Let’s make your presentations unforgettable—no matter what surprises come your way!