Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: Empower Your Mind

If you Google the search term “public speaking anxiety,” you’ll encounter an avalanche of articles offering advice, from relaxation techniques to the infamous suggestion of imagining your audience naked; though the latter is perhaps less than helpful!

If you struggle with public speaking anxiety, consider enrolling in a mindfully crafted public speaking course; it can be tremendously beneficial. The root cause and solution to this anxiety share a common origin: our minds.

Even the most inexperienced presenters share the same potential as today’s most admired speakers. What often sets them apart is the way they think about their presentation.

To banish public speaking anxiety, we can call upon and develop at least four vital intellectual gifts:

1. Perception

Dr. Wayne Dyer once said, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” Many speakers report feeling “butterflies in their stomachs.” Those who view their presentation as a battle for perfection, positioning themselves as prey, will find that those butterflies dance the rumba rather than waltz.

However, if you see your listeners as advocates and allies, everything shifts. Presenting then becomes an opportunity to help your audience recognise the value of your message. Anxiety often intensifies when speakers focus on themselves, so making your presentation about helping your audience can dissipate nerves and boost confidence.

To transform those fluttering butterflies, you must change your thoughts. Recognise that you are not alone in your anxiety; everyone experiences some level of nervousness when speaking. Accept this truth and become mindful of your thoughts. Identify which thoughts are aiding you and which are hindering you.

“Will they like my idea?” “Why does my boss look so serious?” “What if the video doesn’t play?” “What if I can’t answer a question?”

Sound familiar?

Being aware of these troublesome thoughts is the first step toward changing them. Remind yourself that these thoughts are simply that, thought, and they don’t have to define your experience.

2. Imagination

Albert Einstein famously said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” Reflect on the last time you felt overly anxious about a presentation; often, we imagine negative scenarios, forgetting our words, being paralyzed, or facing disinterested audience members. However, we can harness our imaginations positively.

Instead of fearing failure, envision your audience smiling, nodding, and applauding. Imagine them benefiting from your message. Picture them as friends in a conversation rather than as strangers to impress. They are simply people seeking to improve their lives with your help. Consider how you can engage their imaginations to bring your message to life through storytelling and creativity.

3. Will

“So many of our DREAMS at first seem impossible, then improbable, and then when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable,” said Christopher Reeve. Even renowned speakers experience public speaking anxiety. The difference lies in their clear intention for speaking; they know why their message matters.

The will to focus on your message amid distractions is crucial. If you lack clarity about your purpose, you may easily sway off course. Remember a moment of personal achievement, with a focus on your goals, you can elevate your performance. Recognise how willpower and concentration have helped you succeed in previous endeavours.

4. Memory

“Memory is the diary that we all carry about with us,” said Oscar Wilde. Often, our memories can hold us back when preparing to present, as we remember past failures or obstacles. However, we can choose to leverage our memories to our advantage.

Focus on recalling positive experiences; moments when you felt confident, excited, or unstoppable. By consciously choosing to remember these empowering memories, you can dispel nerves and enhance your confidence.

Ask yourself what you want your audience to remember from your presentation, and do whatever it takes to ensure they do.

“Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.”   Napoleon Hill

If you struggle with public speaking anxiety and need help:

– Book yourself onto a powerful public speaking course.

– Invest in some really good one to one public speaking coaching.

– Get yourself some excellent presentation training

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