Who hasn't experienced the fear of speaking in public in their life?
We have all experienced this horrible moment when we feel that all the eyes of the audience are riveted on us. We have all felt the fear, the hot flashes, the knot in the stomach, the lump in the throat and the heartbeat racing!
To avoid the gaze of the audience, we all avoid making eye contact with members of the public.
Therein lies the problem!
While avoiding direct eye contact may seem like an effective strategy for coping with talking anxiety, it makes you even more nervous.
To understand why we avoid the gaze of the audience, we must know the origin of this fear! Have a look at this picture.
The bad news is that our brains have transferred that old fear of being watched to public speaking.
Public speaking anxiety is in our DNA.
We react physiologically and physically the same way the body would react to physical signs of danger (shortness of breath, facial flushing, tremors).
This is called ''glossophobia''.
What is Glossophobia?
"Glossophobia'' or ''Speech anxiety" is a common phobia that can impair public speaking abilities while dealing with small groups of people in a social setting.
75% of humans have a phobia of public speaking.
Common signs:
dry mouth
sweaty palms
A high heart rate
Not to be confused with lack of skill or intelligence.
Can we get rid of Glossophobia?
Like all phobias, it cannot be eliminated, but it can be managed and reduced!
The best way to start managing/reducing it is to practice your performance in front of a mirror at home. Think about what could go wrong and practice finding solutions to those problems.
So even if you find yourself in a very difficult position, you will have the self-confidence that comes from knowing that you have already been through every scenario imaginable and that you are ready to face whatever comes your way.
How to master speaking in public?
Effective presenters engage and entertain their audience in order to create a strong connection with them. To achieve this, they prepare their speeches well in advance.
Nothing is left to chance!
Let's take a look at the 5 steps to successful public speaking.
Step 1: Planning
One of the most critical aspects of a presentation is planning.
Think about the duration of the presentation, the number of participants, the objectives, the topics, the time required per subject, the time for practice and delivery, the materials needed, where to rent the seminar space, etc.
You have nowhere to go if you don't have plans.
Step 2: Getting prepared
Step 3: Practicing
Stage 4: Perform
Step 5: Use the power of your voice
Before you start your speech in front of the audience, let me suggest you try these
5 techniques to calm your nerves before a presentation
1. Stay hydrated throughout long speeches.
A water bottle can be used by comedians and other entertainers as a basic tool for their act or presentation.
You can use the bottle as a reminder to take a break. Drinking water will also help you control your breathing during a presentation.
Plus, the water will relieve your dry mouth symptoms while keeping you cool and hydrated when you sweat from the heat of the stage lights.
2. Create strategies to connect with your audience.
3. Give a big presentation in front of a mirror.
4. Strive to improve your body language by stretching.
5. Take several deep breaths.
Need to improve your public speaking skills?
Hi, my name is Mariam Bennouna.
I'm a Life Coach and I help people achieve their goals and live their best lives.
Whether you're looking for help with career, relationships, or personal development, I can provide the support and guidance you need to succeed. I also offer specialized coaching for young people with Parkinson disease, helping them to manage their symptoms and live full and active lives. My approach is personalized and supportive, and I'm committed to helping you reach your full potential.
Comments