Public Speaking

Public speaking is often ranked as one of people’s top fears, ranking even higher than death! It’s understandable to feel nervous about standing up in front of a crowd, but there are ways to overcome this fear and deliver a killer speech.

Did you know that actress Emma Stone used to have panic attacks before going on stage? She overcame her fear by practising her speeches extensively and focusing on breathing techniques. Even former President Barack Obama has admitted to getting nervous before speaking, but he relied on his preparation and experience to deliver powerful speeches.

Now, let’s get to some tips to overcome the fear of public speaking:

1. Embrace the nerves: Feeling nervous before speaking in public is natural, so don’t fight it. Instead, use that energy to your advantage. Channel it into your speech and let it fuel your passion and excitement.
2. Practice, practice, practice: The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Rehearse your speech in front of a mirror or a friend, and record yourself to review and make improvements.
3. Use humour: Inject some humour into your speech to break the tension and connect with your audience. Even if your jokes fall flat, it shows that you’re human and relatable.
4. Engage your audience: Make eye contact, ask questions, and involve your audience in your speech. This will help to build a connection and make you feel less alone on stage.
5. Visualize success: Picture yourself delivering a flawless speech and receiving a standing ovation. This positive visualization can help to calm your nerves and boost your confidence.
6. Be yourself: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Embrace your personality and speak from the heart. Authenticity is key to connecting with your audience and delivering a memorable speech.

A more structured approach can be found in the goal-setting post

In conclusion, public speaking doesn’t have to be scary. With the right mindset and preparation, anyone can overcome their fear and deliver a killer speech. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll be joining the ranks of Emma Stone and Barack Obama as a master of the podium!