Why Do People Get Nervous When Speaking in Public?

Public speaking is the scariest thing possible for millions of people. In fact, one survey shows that public speaking is ranked ahead of even death in America's greatest fears. As Jerry Seinfeld said: "The average person at a funeral would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy."

History

• The first known literary work pertaining to public speak was written over 2500 years ago in ancient Greece. Concepts and strategy from public speaking have changed little throughout the ages, and doubtlessly, so has the apprehension of a speech.

Physiology

• When nervous, the body undergoes a "fight or flight" response. In the speaker's case, it is flight. The hypothalamus in the brain kicks in causing a rush of blood to your head and triggers your adrenaline supplies, accounting for sweaty palms, increased heart rate, and a flushed face.

Stress

• Stress can also be a cause of fear. If a speech has been hastily put together, or the speaker has been given inadequate time to prepare, one will have difficulty expressing themselves in an eloquent manner paving way for feelings of nervousness.

Low-Self Esteem

• The primary cause of fear of speaking in public, is the notion of looking like a fool in front your peers and the judgement you receive from them. However, realistically, this is not the case. It is inevitable that people will judge you, but it is even more likely that people are attentive and are interested in hearing what you have to say.

Overcoming

• Strategies for overcoming fear of public speaking include practicing your speech in front of family members or friends and mentally trying to visualize yourself succeeding. If eye contact with the audience makes you feel uncomfortable, focus on a point on their lower forehead-- this gives the impression of eye contact. And also, keep in mind that you possess information that the audience is interested in knowing.