Glossophobia, or fear of public speaking, is noticeably common. Experts estimate that as much as 77% of the population experiences some level of anxiety regarding public speaking. So, you are not alone in this! The question then becomes: how are some people great public speakers?
To start, no one was born with such amazing talents. Frankly speaking, some experts deny that "talents" exist. They say that it is all skills that were improved over a long period. However, knowing that there is no such thing as fixed skills for each person is crucial to overcoming glossophobia because now you know you can improve those skills.
In order to become a better public speaker, you have to be prepared. You cannot imagine how much your anxiety levels will drop if you just came prepared. However, it isn't that easy, as you have to do mental, physical, contextual, and speech preparation:
- Mental preparation: Come to your speech mentally ready. Don't be afraid of messing up and focus on your message, not how people will think of you.
- Physical preparation: Sleep well the night before, wear something comfortable, and eat breakfast.
- Contextual preparation: Know the circumstance and the audience. If you are able to visit the speech place before, arrive early.
- Speech preparation: Practice giving the speech with a timer and maybe make someone your audience.
These are a few steps that would make you feel a lot more relieved if done. Remember, you never look as nervous as you feel. So, fake it until you become it!