About this quote

Speaking clearly is a skill we often take for granted until our own tongue gets tied in a knot. We expect ourselves to always be articulate, yet human speech is messy and full of awkward stumbles. Accepting your own verbal blunders relieves a massive amount of social pressure. Next time you choke during a presentation, stop trying to sound like a perfect orator. Just laugh at the slip-up and keep moving.

When to use it

• After totally butchering your explanation during a high-stakes client meeting, you drop this line to break the awkward silence.
• When your partner tries to give a romantic anniversary toast but ends up rambling about the dog, you say this to make the whole dinner table laugh.
• You stumble over your words during a class presentation and notice the room going quiet. Saying this helps you reset your brain and finish the slide.