There is one universal fear, even a terror, almost everyone has. It is public speaking. Here's how I overcame my fear of what is the highest on most people's list of fears.
Public speaking is many peoples biggest fear. It has also been mine. I've done everything to take me out of fear and improve my speaking skills. I joined Toastmasters five times and found it too intimidating for me. Toastmasters is a great organization and has helped many people. But I wasn't ready for Toastmasters.
A class was offered at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living. The flyer read "Does your Delivery Sabotage Your Message?" With so many opportunities coming up for me to speak, this was perfect for me. I signed up and took the class. However, I needed far more than a six week class, but it was a start. The one thing every student in the class had was a fear of public speaking. I took some private lessons from her. She was very encouraging but determined to get the best out of each of us. We all made progress. She was there to support me each time I spoke and at every workshop I gave. What a blessing she has been.
As time for the workshop approached I knew I was well prepared. I went over it again and again. I had all the experiential exercises and hand-outs printed and organized. I wore my power outfit and felt comfortable.
As I began to speak, I looked around the room and realized people were really interested in what I had to say. I could see it in their faces. I felt my tension flow away. I relaxed and spoke from my heart. That was when I realized that when we speak from our heart people listen. That's what they want to hear. When it was over I knew that I had done very well. I walked out of the room feeling confident and powerful. I knew I could do this.
Here's what I learned: Take the fear and turn it into excitement and enthusiasm. Whatever your fear is, do it anyway. What we really are afraid of is that we may humiliate ourselves. NO ONE WANTS TO SEE US FAIL. When fear steps in, do it anyway. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Get excited about it. Build your enthusiasm. Find a supportive coach who will see you through it. Get friends who support you and make them your "cheering squad." See yourself being great. Do it anyway.
I may not be the world's greatest public speaker, not yet. But I do feel more comfortable than I ever have. The more I speak the more at ease and confident I am. You can do it too.
See Also : Toy Store: Discount Toys Store Online Buy Cheap Economic Books | LOWER Prices Read Horoscope Today
No comments:
Post a Comment