ALT-11 How to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking
The act of public-speaking can be one of the most stressful and nerve-wracking experiences in many people's lives. Causes of this sress are many and varied, from genetic predisposition to learned shyness; from fear of one's fly being open to lack of confidence in oneself; from negative experiences in the past to low self-esteem about one's voice.
So while the causes are varied, so are the solutions to fear of public speaking. Some things to try as you try to overcome your fear of public-speaking follow:
1.) With friends, practice a natural public speaking voice. It should be clear and unmuttered.
2.) Put yourself into positions where you will have practice with small bits of public speaking. Some opportunities might come at work, where you report a team's efforts, results, or findings. Getting small practice truly can boost one's confidence.
3.) When you do have a public speaking engagement, master your content and master your speech. Have them down cold. Practice your speech several times a day, being careful not to psyche yourself out. If you feel the need, gather a friend or two to listen to your speech and give you feedback.
4.) Don't drink a lot of water before you speak. While you speak, take only sips. It can be a very uncomfortable feeling to need to visit the loo while you are speaking.
5.) There are several good programs out there to increase confidence in public-speaking. Find one and take part in it.
