Speak Up...Overcoming Stage Fright

Your heart beats rapidly. Your palms sweat. Your voice squeaks. Public speaking ranks among the most dreaded prospects - even greater than most other fears. So how can you manage your fear and pull off your speech with finesse? Here are some strategies:

• Be prepared. Preparation can be the perfect cure to calm your nerves. Know your topic better than your audience does. Research and rehearse.
  
• Think positive thoughts to boost your confidence and don't feed into nervousness. Avoid negative thought patterns like, "My hands are shaking" or, "I feel my heart beating faster." Reprogram yur mind with thoughts that provide comfort and confidence.
• Tape-record your speech. Listen to it and try it again after making improvements to your voice, enunciation or pace.
• When you are at the podium, do not mistake blank faces for apathy or hostility. Some people do not smile when they are concentrating.
• Eat a light meal beforehand, such as fruit or a salad. A fat-rich meal can channel your body's energy into the digestive process and slow down your mind.
• Get a good night's sleep. Eight hours is recommended.
• Take care of your voice. If you smoke, stop. And avoid smoky environments before your speech.
• Dress appropriately for your audience and presentation.
• Breathe deeply.
• Keep a bottle of water and take small sips for vocal clarity.
• Don't avoid it. Avoidance makes your fear worse, never allowing you to work through your fear or improve.

Source: The Everything Public Speaking Book: Deliver a Winning Presentation Every Time byScott S. Smith, Adams Media, 2008.

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