By: Abby Dizon
Of all the courses that I took at Southern Adventist University, I personally found that Communications and Public Speaking posed the most significant challenge. It was not that the class demanded a lot of homework; it was because I feared public speaking. The idea of speaking in front of others and wondering what they were thinking of me terrified me.
If you can relate to this experience, here are some strategies to not only ace your public speaking class but to overcome your fear of presenting in the future.
When anxious feelings overwhelm you, envision your success. You will be able to overcome your fear of public speaking better not only by picturing a successful presentation but by imagining that life moves on after your presentation.
When I felt overwhelming anxiety and negativity during my speeches, I visualized life post-presentation. I thought about how it would be done before I knew it and that life would carry on seamlessly.
Furthermore, visualizing a successful presentation boosts your confidence and aligns your actions with your mindset.
Practice consistently. No one will hold it against you for rehearsing your complete presentation several times. Valuable practice involves presenting to various audiences, even amongst those with whom you are less comfortable. This allows you to ask for feedback and see opportunities for improvement.
In addition to practicing, keep notecards handy. Over my years of presenting, I have learned that I am unable to work without notecards. They aid my memory and provide a safety net whenever I freeze.
Notecards, like practicing repeatedly, help you feel more at ease and guarantee more success. Just remember to occasionally look up to make eye contact and engage with your audience.
Finally, a tip that I utilize to overcome stage fright is to keep the audience in mind. If you’re haunted by the nagging thought that “everyone will judge you,” challenge that toxic mindset by recognizing the audience’s capacity to empathize. You are likely in the midst of people who understand your anxiety and the challenge of presenting or who are otherwise preoccupied with their own thoughts. Adopting the mindset that the audience cares about you and only wants you to succeed can greatly ease your nerves.
Having to present with stage fright may seem like the end of the world. Your heart is beating rapidly, your hands are clammy and you feel as if you are about to walk out of the classroom. But remember, your feelings and this situation are temporary.
With practice and a fixed mindset, are capable of turning stage fright into a stepping stone toward a confident and successful presentation.
