Use of objects in the hands

The pen as a temporary crutch

For novice speakers or those who suffer from high stage anxiety, having empty hands can be a source of additional stress, generating the feeling of not knowing what to do with them.

In these cases, the strategic use of a small object, such as a pen or pointer, to function as a safety "anchor" or "crutch" is permissible.

Holding this object can provide a tactile sense of control and help channel nervous energy, preventing the hands from visibly shaking. However, this should be a temporary expedient.

The ultimate goal is to achieve the looseness needed to gesture without props, allowing the hands to express with complete freedom and nuance.

Dangers of playing with the object (distraction)

The main risk of carrying an object is that it becomes an anti-stress toy. It is common to see speakers repeatedly "clicking" the pen, twirling it between their fingers, throwing and catching it, or tapping it against the table.

These repetitive movements act as a magnet for the audience's attention, diverting it from the auditory message to the visual and sound stimulus of the object.

If the object changes from being a support tool to a distracting element ("baton" or "fan"), it loses its usefulness and sabotages the presentation.

The audience will stop listening to the content to concentrate on the hypnotic movement of the pen.

Therefore, if you decide to use it, it should be kept still or used only to point out specific data, avoiding any nervous manipulation that would betray the speaker's anxiety.

Summary

A pen can function as a temporary crutch for anxious speakers. Holding it provides a sense of control, preventing hands from visibly shaking during the initial speech.

It should be a temporary expedient; the ultimate goal is to gesticulate freely. The necessary looseness allows hands to express nuances without relying on external props.

Playing with the object distracts the audience, diverting attention from the message. Repetitive movements sabotage the presentation; the prop should be held still or used for pointing.