Backstage before a fashion show, underwear models all ripped up, stand poised and picture-perfect, waiting for their moment under the runway lights. But behind those flawless faces, perfect six packs, there’s often a rush of nerves—heartbeats quicken, hands tremble, and thoughts spiral: What if I trip? What if I’m not good enough? What if I mess up?

That feeling? It’s anxiety. And just like those models, we all face our own “runway moments” in life—whether it’s a big presentation, an important exam, or even just stepping into an unfamiliar room.

So, how do you deal with it?

Breathe through it. Models backstage often practice steady breathing to calm their racing hearts. Slow, deep breaths tell your body: you’re safe.

Ground yourself. Notice your feet on the floor, the fabric of your clothes, the sounds around you. Anxiety lives in the future—grounding pulls you back into the present.

Positive self-talk. Just as a model reminds herself, I’ve walked this before, I can do this again, you can affirm your own strength. Replace “what if I fail?” with “what if I shine?”

Channel the energy. Anxiety and excitement feel the same in the body. Instead of fighting the nerves, reframe them as fuel to perform.

Focus on purpose, not perfection. Models walk not to be flawless, but to bring the designer’s vision to life. Likewise, your role is not to be perfect—it’s to show up as you.

The truth is, anxiety doesn’t mean weakness. It means you care. And just like those models who step out onto the runway despite the nerves, you can too.