Are sweaty palms, a fast heartbeat, and trembling knees familiar to you every time you need to talk in front of people? Millions of people struggle with public speaking anxiety known as glossophobia which disturbs not only their private life but also their working career. This blog acts as your guide to shutting out that inner critic and converting the symptoms of nervousness into confident speaking.
Tip #1: Realize that anxiety and nervousness are not signs of trouble
Feeling anxious or nervous before speaking in public is perfectly normal. Even professionals, like world-famous actor Michael Douglas, admit to feeling nervous when they have to do public speaking. It's important to remember that these feelings are not a sign that something is wrong with you. Instead, they indicate that you are about to do something important.
Tip #2: Realize that you're only about half as nervous as you think
When you feel nervous, it's easy to focus on that feeling and forget that there is also excitement mixed in. Anxiety and excitement are two sides of the same emotional coin. Next time you feel nervous about public speaking, try reframing it as excitement. This shift in mindset can help you embrace the challenge and remind yourself that those butterflies in your stomach are proof that you're alive and about to do something special.
Tip #3: Realize that you do not look as nervous on the outside as you feel on the inside
One common misconception about public speaking anxiety is that it is highly noticeable to others. However, the reality is that your listeners can't tell how you feel on the inside. Even if you rate your nervousness as an eight, nine, or ten on a scale of one to ten, chances are your audience will perceive it as much lower. So, try to play it cool like Sylvester Stallone in Rocky. Remember, others can't tell how nervous you are, and that's one less thing for you to worry about.
Tip #4: The peak of nervousness lasts less than 60 seconds
The anticipation and waiting before speaking are often the hardest part. Once you start your presentation, the spike of nervousness usually subsides. Just like a professional football quarterback who settles into their game plan after the first few plays, you'll feel much better once you get rolling. Remind yourself that the most intense anxiety typically lasts for less than a minute, and you'll soon feel more at ease.
Tip #5: Accept that anxiety and nervousness are not barriers to doing an outstanding job
It's a common misconception that being nervous means you can't do a good job. However, this is simply not true. Many successful athletes admit to getting nervous before big games, but that doesn't stop them from performing well. The same goes for public speaking. Some of the best professional speakers in the world experience nerves, but it doesn't hinder their ability to give a superior presentation. Accept that anxiety is not a barrier, and focus on delivering an outstanding performance.
Tip #6: Assume that everybody is rooting for you
When we're nervous, we tend to overestimate the negative judgment we might receive from others. However, the truth is that most people are sympathetic and want you to succeed. The majority of your audience has likely been in your shoes and understands what it's like to speak in public. It's important to remember that even if you encounter someone with an unpleasant facial expression, it's likely not about you. They may be having a bad day or simply have a habit of looking that way. Assume that everyone is on your side and wants you to do well.
Conclusion
Overcoming public speaking anxiety requires both mindset and behavioral changes. By implementing these six mindset tips, you can begin to change the way you think about public speaking and reduce your anxiety. Remember that anxiety and nervousness are normal, and you have the power to transform them into excitement. Others can't perceive your nervousness as strongly as you feel it, and the peak of nervousness is usually short-lived. Accept that anxiety doesn't hinder your ability to give a great presentation, and assume that everyone is rooting for your success.
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