Do you feel tongue-tied and nervous when you are asked to give a
speech? Your heart pounds and your mind blanks out. Even though you may
be a lively chatter among friends, you feel self-conscious and fear in
public speaking when you are asked to speak in front of a group of
people.
The fact is that most public speakers who shine on the stage were once like you. Do not think that you are the only one facing this fear. In this article, I would like to share with you 3 simple tips to overcome your fear in public speaking.
Tip #1: Be Well Prepared on the Topic
Preparation is the key to overcoming your fear in public speaking. Before you speak, research the topic, plan your speech well and know thoroughly what you are going to talk about.
If you are not well-prepared and unsure of the topic, the ignorance and lack of confidence are likely to come through in your presentation. You will feel nervous and fearful, thinking that the audience might spot loop-holes in your speech.
Tip #2: Act Confident Even if You Are Not
To develop courage before the audience, act as if you already have it. Sit up cheerfully, act and speak as if you already have that cheerfulness in you.
Before you face an audience, breathe deeply for 30
seconds. The increased supply of oxygen calms your nerves and gives you
courage.
Stand up at full height facing the audience. One good way to trick the mind is to imagine every one in the audience owes you money and they are begging you for extension of credit. You will feel the benefits of the psychological effects almost instantly.
Tip #3: Think of Yourself as the Messenger
People often feel self-conscious thus affecting their ability to speak clearly and convincingly. One reason is that the mind focuses too much on "me", "I", "what people would think of me if I screw up," etc.
Have a message and think of yourself as the messenger whose job is to deliver the message. Focus on the message and how it can benefit the audience. Keep your heart and mind on the message. Know it and believe in it thoroughly. That will take your mind off focusing on fearful thoughts which usually center on ourselves.
I hope you will find this article helping in overcoming your fear in public speaking.
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