Many people get nervous when they speak in public, especially in front of large crowds. If you are feeling anxious about speaking, find a calming technique that will decrease your agitation and allow you to focus on the task at hand. For example, visualize yourself giving a successful speech to an enthusiastic crowd. Once you find some relaxation techniques that work, practice using them until they become second nature.
Understand Your Anxiety Is Normal
Many people fear public speaking, so don't feel embarrassed. Common signs of anxiety include sweating, quavering voice, churning stomach, racing mind, quickened heart rate and many other nervous behaviors. These are your body's natural responses to stress, so don't feel like something is wrong with you. The key is to teach your body that public speaking is not a dangerous situation.
Control Your Anxiety
Take steps to reduce your anxiety. One simple method is to control your breathing. For example, close your eyes and slow your breathing. Inhale through your nose, and then exhale through your mouth. Repeat this over and over, until your heart rate slows. Also, try thinking positive thoughts. For instance, imagine yourself giving an amazing speech to riotous applause. If you can trick your mind into relaxing, you may actually get to the point that you enjoy public speaking.
Know Your Audience
If your audience identifies with you, they will visibly enjoy your speech, which will help calm you down. Design your speech with your audience in mind. For example, if you plan to speak to a group of doctors, don't use lawyer jargon. Instead, use examples and language your audience can relate to.
Practice Often
The best way to overcome speech anxiety is to gain confidence. One way to do that is to practice your speech as often as possible. Use note cards or work from an outline to keep yourself on track. If your speech has a definite time limit, use a kitchen timer to make sure you are within it. Ask friends and family to serve as a practice audience, and encourage them to offer you constructive feedback. If you can't find an audience, stand in front of a mirror to give your speech. If you practice your speech enough, you will be confident on the day of the speech.
Get Over Mistakes
If you stutter or miss a word, chances are nobody will notice. Don't get hung up on a small mistake. Instead, focus on your next point and force yourself to move on. Recognize that everyone in the room wants you to do well. They are not going to judge you as harshly as you are judging yourself.
