Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

By Owen Grimes, Illinois FBLA State Vice President, Eastern Area

Public speaking is one of the most common fears people have, right up there with snakes and spiders. This anxiety can come from many sources: worrying about judgment, the fear of forgetting lines, or feeling pressure to make a good impression. The good news is that overcoming this fear is possible and can end in personal and professional growth. By using certain techniques and practicing regularly, anyone can turn their fear into a newfound passion.
Techniques for Overcoming Fear

1. Preparation and Practice: One of the best ways to fight anxiety is to be well-prepared. Knowing the ins and outs of your material gives you a strong foundation and can help ease your fears. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or present to friends. The more familiar you are with your speech, the less nervous you’ll feel.
   
2. Visualization: Picture yourself successfully speaking in front of an audience, seeing them engaged and responding positively. Visualizing success can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety before you even step behind that podium.
   
3. Breathe Breathe Breathe: Deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind before a performance. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, holding for a few seconds, and then slowly exhaling. This can help you feel more relaxed and in control.
   
4. Positive Thoughts: Changing negative thoughts into positive ones can make a big difference. Instead of thinking, “I’m going to mess up,” tell yourself, “I’m prepared, and I will kill this performance.” This shift in mindset is crucial to a good performance.
   
5. Nobody is Perfect: Remember that perfection isn’t the goal. Everyone makes mistakes, and that’s part of learning. Even the best of the best have moments where things don’t go perfectly. Lebron James might go up and miss a layup, but the true greatness comes from how he picks himself back up. What truly matters is how you recover from those moments. Embracing imperfection allows you to focus on connecting with your audience.
   

Practicing OpportunitiesFinding chances to practice public speaking is crucial. FBLA offers excellent opportunities to practice public speaking through presentations, competitions, and networking events, helping members build confidence and communication skills. Also, look for opportunities to speak at community events, workshops, or school presentations. Each successful speaking experience will bring you one step closer to conquering the fear.
In ConclusionOvercoming the fear of public speaking is a journey that takes practice and determination. By using effective techniques, and seeking out opportunities to speak, anyone can turn this fear into a new hobby. Each step you take toward conquering this fear not only improves your speaking skills but also opens up new opportunities for growth. Ultimately, public speaking is an avenue of expression, allowing you to share your voice and connect with others.