Public speaking fear is one of the foremost common phobias of all. Phobias are irrational fears that may become surprisingly disruptive. Untreated phobias can grow into panic disorder. Panic disorders are characterized by symptoms such as:.
- Racing heart, fast pulse.
- Chest pain or tightness.
- Dizziness.
- Breathing problems.
- Intestinal distress, stomach ache.
- Headaches.
- Sensations of tingling or numbness.
Fear can be a normal response when the threat is real. Fear that interferes with normal life is irrational fear. Public speaking isn't dangerous nonetheless fear of it can be intense. Fear of speaking in public may involve fear of looking or sounding foolish.
Fear of speaking in public hits lots of people. Folks who must speak publicly as part of their profession often feel stress before a speech. Teachers, college instructors, fund raisers, businessmen, sales persons, and politicians all experience fear of speaking in public at some time in their careers. Losing one's voice before a speech is a common occurrence. Physical symptoms can scare individuals out of giving the planned speech.
Self-help methods for managing fear of public speaking are plentiful and easy. Popular ways for managing the fear include:.
- Take time to organize. Write your speech on note cards in advance. Arrange your response to problems in advance. Be ready for common questions and review your topic thoroughly beforehand. Rehearse your responses to anticipated questions.
- Practice as much as you can. Practicing public speaking really does make your speech perfect. Try taping your speech on audio cassette. Review your speech for areas of improvement. Practice your speech in front of a friend or family member.
- Formulate a back-up plan. Have an alternate plan in case something goes wrong. Plan a slide show as a back up, for example. Ask about rescheduling your speech. Having a back-up can keep you from worrying about mishaps so you can focus on giving a good speech.
- Make your audience less intimidating. A selection of strategies will help you do this. Find a face that appears friendly and try talking to only one person. Another technique is to focus just over the heads of your audience Audiences will not know you are not looking them in the eye.
- Relax before the speech. Don't prepare obsessively up till the last minute. Resting right before the speech will boost your confidence more.
Public speaking classes will help a lot if you must give speeches often as part of your job. A 3rd option is to join a "speaking in public" community group like Toastmasters. Create a supportive group of friends who also speak frequently in public.
Once you get past the butterflies in your stomach, you may even begin to enjoy public speaking.
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