How To Conquer Your Fear of Public Speaking (5 Unique Steps)

Imagine if you could give a talk about anything in the world without fear or anxiety.

What would you want to share?

So many of us

-have powerful stories to tell,

-knowledge to share,

-ideas to spread.

However, we don’t share them because we are paralyzed by the fear of public speaking.

Here are 5 unique steps to break free from this fear:

Step 1: Acceptance

To overcome the fear of public speaking, we must first recognize that this fear is completely normal. Speaking in front of an audience makes us feel vulnerable to potential judgment.

This vulnerability triggers the amygdala, the part of our brain that reacts to perceived threats. Consequently, we experience a fight-or-flight response—heart pounding, sweaty palms, a tight stomach, dry throat... Sound familiar?

This is a natural reaction, our nervous system's way of protecting us. Rather than judging ourselves for feeling this way, we should focus on managing this fear.

Step 2: Unveiling Your Fear

Beyond the general social anxiety around public speaking, each of us has unique personal reasons for feeling nervous in the spotlight. Be honest with yourself and ask: What am I truly afraid of?

Is it the fear of:

• Not being good enough?

• Not being understood?

• Not being accepted?

• Not being perfect?

• Not being liked?

• Being exposed?

• Being rejected?

Identify the root cause of your fear, and then take it a step further.

For example, if you realize you fear not being liked, ask yourself: So what? What’s the worst that could happen if this fear comes true? Will you lose your home? No. Will your spouse leave you? No. A room full of strangers will remain strangers. That’s all!

By pinpointing the root of your fear and eliminating the unknown elements, you can significantly reduce its power over you.

Step 3: Concentrating On What You Can Control

There are numerous aspects of delivering a successful speech that are entirely within your control, such as:

• Thorough preparation

• Knowing your audience

• Structuring your speech effectively

• Capturing and maintaining audience engagement

• Demonstrating confident body language

• Enhancing vocal variety

• And much more

A significant factor in becoming a great speaker is developing presentation skills and communication techniques. Public speaking is an ability that, like any other, can be learned, practiced, and mastered.

Remember, most exceptional speakers weren't born that way—they were made through practice and dedication. For instance, practicing your speech multiple times, incorporating storytelling, and using visual aids can also contribute to your success as a speaker.

Step 4: Envisioning Success

Visualizing success, a technique often employed by top athletes to enhance performance, is equally applicable to public speaking. It aids in maintaining focus, managing emotions, and bolstering confidence by dispelling fear and uncertainty.

Imagine you have an upcoming important speech causing anxiety. Construct in your mind the most favorable outcome and the steps leading to it.

Engage all your senses:

-picture what you'll wear

-feel the texture of your clothing against your skin

-smell your chosen fragrance

-hear the music playing as you approach the venue

-visualize standing backstage

-hearing your name announced

-feeling the applause as you step up to the microphone

-experience the sensation of taking a deep breath and

-delivering your speech with assurance and grace

-see the audience responding positively, laughing, engaging

-ultimately applauding you at the end.

Envision every detail vividly, and most importantly, feel the satisfaction and confidence.

Devote five to seven minutes daily to practicing visualization. When we imagine something, we activate the same neural pathways as when we perform the action, allowing consistent practice of this technique to positively rewire the brain. For example, visualize yourself confidently leading a team meeting, acing a job interview, or delivering a successful presentation at a conference.

Step 5: Redirecting Your Attention

A rapid and highly effective method to conquer the fear of public speaking is to redirect your focus away from yourself and onto your audience.

Instead of dwelling on thoughts like:

What if I forget my lines?

What if they don't like me?

What if I face criticism and judgment?

Shift your mindset to:

What value can I offer my audience?

What unique perspective can I provide that others cannot?

How can I deliver my message in a way that leaves a lasting impact?

By directing your attention towards serving your audience, you'll find little room left for worrying about potential mishaps or how you're perceived. This shift not only alleviates your fears but also cultivates the qualities of an exceptional speaker—one who leaves a lasting impression.

Often, we instinctively avoid confronting our fears. Instead, I encourage you to confront and embrace your fear of public speaking, using it as motivation to evolve into a memorable, compelling, and authentic speaker. For instance, think about how you can connect with your audience on a personal level, share relevant anecdotes, or provide actionable insights that resonate with them.

I am Tejaswini Gaikwad-Patil and if you want to become confident and learn public speaking skills. I have something for you. DM ME TODAY.