About Fear of Public Speaking
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Causes of Fear
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People who fear public speaking often have underlying reasons for that fear. Some people feel that they are not articulate enough to speak in front of a crowd, so they avoid public speaking or feel anxiety before their appearance. A past incident in a person's life can lead to fear of public speaking. People who've been teased and taunted in childhood carry the psychological belief that people will laugh at them if they make a mistake into adulthood.
Embrace the Fear
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One way to overcome fear of public speaking is to accept that you have this problem and realize that other people, even people who seem in control, suffer from this condition. Once people embrace their fear of public speaking, they can try various approaches in order to get over that fear.
Preparation and Practice
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Many people experience fear of public speaking. However, those who prepare and practice before their speaking engagement feel less anxiety. If you know that you will have to speak in front of other people, you should begin researching their topic and writing their speech weeks in advance. Rehearse in front of a mirror to practice eye contact and reduce verbal ticks. Another method to overcome fear of public speaking is practicing with friends and family. They may be able to provide valuable insight as to things that will improve the speech.
Visit the Location
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If possible, visit the location where the speech takes place. Knowing the size of the venue helps people overcome their fear of public speaking because they can figure out the estimated size of the crowd, places where they can focus their attention and the acoustics of the building. Knowing all of this will allay some of the fears that result from standing in front of a crowd because they will be more comfortable.
Relaxation Techniques and Training
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Adopting relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, helps many people reduce their fear of public speaking. People suffering from this form of anxiety often hold their breath when they start their speeches. Learning how to breathe using the diaphragm reduces the occurrence of hyperventilation and passing out. Many community colleges and universities provide classes that help people overcome public speaking fears.
Before Speaking
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Find a friendly face in the crowd and focus on it. Psychologically, that approval will relax you. To lessen fear of public speaking, take a deep breath and start with a joke, anecdote or rhetorical question as ice breakers. These techniques will loosen you and the crowd before the presentation.
Conclusion
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Fear of public speaking affects most people at some point in their lives, even people who talk to people for a living. However, acknowledging this fear, preparing and practicing before a speech, and employing relaxation devices before speaking helps many people overcome their anxiety.
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