“The show must go on” is a saying that’s typically associated with theater. Some sources claim it originated in the circus, when the performers’ belief was that there must be a show, regardless of obstacles.
I thought of that saying about a week ago, when I arrived to speak and technology issues prevented me from accessing my slides.
An IT representative hurried to the room where I was presenting, apologizing several times over. She explained that there was a serious issue with the equipment, and she recommended that my audience and I move to another room.
“No problem,” I assured her. “This room will be fine. The system can be repaired later.”
The woman stared in disbelief and said, “but you can’t access the computer or the slides.”
I assured her that I knew the material, and everything would be fine. And it was.
I relay this story not to demonstrate my bravery, but rather to share the importance of preparation. With printed notes and a few practice runs under my belt, I was ready to go, with or without technical aids.
Pro tips: Know your material. Bring printed or written notes with you. Be confident knowing the show will go on.
Photo credit: Vidal Balielo Jr. on Pexels
