Some people get the feeling that they’re going to collapse when their heart starts to race, they start to sweat, their hands and knees start to tremble which is all part of the anxiety associated with public speaking.

Nervousness is a common experience when it comes to public speaking, but there are several ways you can overcome it:

Overcoming Nerves When Speaking In Public

Public speaking can be daunting, and it is not uncommon to feel nervous or anxious when faced with the task of speaking in front of a group of people. However, there are several techniques that you can use to overcome nerves and become a more confident public speaker.

Prepare thoroughly

One of the most effective ways to reduce nerves is to prepare thoroughly for your speech or presentation. Research your topic thoroughly and make sure you have a clear understanding of the key points you want to communicate. Practice your delivery and timing so that you are comfortable with the flow of your presentation. By being well-prepared, you will feel more confident and less likely to become overwhelmed by nerves.

Rehearse

Rehearsal is key when it comes to overcoming nerves. Practice delivering your speech or presentation out loud – multiple times if necessary. This will help you refine your delivery, identify any areas that need improvement, and become more familiar with the material. Consider recording yourself and watching it back to see where you could improve further.

Practice Deep breathing

Deep breathing can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. Before your presentation, take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, filling your lungs completely, then exhale slowly. Repeat this process a few times until you feel more relaxed.

Focus on your message

When you are feeling nervous, it can be tempting to focus on the physical sensations you are experiencing – a racing heart, sweaty palms, etc. Instead, try to focus on the message you want to communicate. Remember why you are giving the speech or presentation and focus on communicating your ideas clearly and effectively. By shifting your attention away from your nerves, you will become more present and engaged with your audience.

Use visualization techniques

Visualization techniques can be a powerful tool for reducing nerves. Imagine yourself delivering a successful speech or presentation. Visualize the audience being engaged and attentive, and imagine yourself feeling calm, collected and confident. This can help you build a positive mindset and reduce the anxiety associated with public speaking.

Engage with your audience

Connecting with your audience can help to make you feel more comfortable and confident. Consider using humor or telling a personal story to engage your listeners. Make eye contact with members of the audience – this can help you establish a rapport and create a sense of connection.

Be kind to yourself

Remember that nerves are natural, and it is okay to feel a little anxious when speaking in public. Try to be kind to yourself and avoid judging yourself harshly for any mistakes. Instead, focus on the progress you have made and the improvements you can make for next time.

In summary, overcoming nerves when speaking in public requires preparation, practice, and a positive mindset. By focusing on your message, engaging with your audience, and being kind to yourself, you can become a more confident and effective public speaker.