Why Are People So Anxious About Public Speaking?
Public Speaking Fear can be paralyzing… You probably know the feeling. You can work for weeks, learn the materials, prepare the presentation. You try to ignore the anxiety. And then it’s the moment… You go to the stand… Your throat is dry, you begin to stutter… Your brain feels empty.
Public speaking anxiety is much more common than you may think. You are not alone in worrying about speaking in public; many people experience “stage fright” when they have to give a speech. In fact, over 70% of people say they have a fear of public speaking.
Many of us take the fear of public speaking as being a weakness and will go to extraordinary lengths to avoid it. Obsessing about your performance as a public speaker haunts beginners and experienced speakers alike. Even the most skilled public speakers, admit they battle with their nerves before a big presentation.
The sense of nervousness is caused by a sudden rush of the hormone adrenaline into the nervous system. This causes a “fight or flight” reaction. This reaction, stated very basically, is when we are confronted with a threatening situation, such as an automobile swerving in front of us. The adrenaline rush stimulates our physiological reactions. Our body has two main functions. To keep us alive and to make more humans. If we have a fear of public speaking, our body will react as if it was saving our lives.
As speakers, we can use what nature has given us to our advantage. Nerves are good if we learn to control them. Adrenaline helps us perform better, it is our bodies own natural stimulant. Start by recognizing that the nervous tension we feel as we address a group is a form of positive energy. Being nervous is good, as it shows that you really care about getting your message across. You value your credibility and want to sound and look good to your audience.
Remember this:
- Most people rank public speaking as their number one fear. Over 70%!
- People make a lot of excuses to avoid speaking in public.
- Speaking creates an adrenaline rush. You can harness this adrenaline, and make it work for you.
- Your brain does what ever you tell it to. You can change your reactions based on what you tell yourself.
- It is not shameful to feel anxious about public speaking.
So, what can we do?
- Relax and take deep breaths, slow down your breathing, get it rhythmical
- • Remember adrenaline is causing your physical effects.
- • You are not nervous, you are excited—change your mind set.
- Identify and control your “comforter,” root your feet to stop movements. Pay attention not to fidget with your hair, ring, pockets, etc.
The phobia of speaking in public is a very serious condition and can potentially take over the lives of people suffering from it. The good news is that this phobia can be reversed and that there is help to overcome this problem. With some time and some coaching, you will be speaking with more confidence and less fear. You will be able to focus more on your message and less on your insecurities.
Get your mind right for public speaking
If you are just starting out with public speaking or you need a confidence boost, check out the book “Mind Primer For Public Speakers. You will find confidence tips, the basic outline of a speech, how to find the right audience for your message, and more… Get the book, get the boost, and become your best!