Many adults claim that public speaking is their biggest fear, surpassing fears of flying, financial ruin, illness, and even death.
Some people quip that some people would rather be in their own coffins than deliver eulogies at funerals, which is something you may have heard. Although it might be overstated, most people would concur.
When getting ready to speak up or perform in front of a group, the majority of us experience some degree of apprehension. But, those who have feelings of dread and terror in situations like these, or anywhere they could be the centre of attention may have a specific type of social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia).
Stage fright, often known as a fear of public speaking or performing, has a severe negative impact on a person’s self-esteem and can lead to them quitting their jobs, quitting school, or declining promotions. Many people—including seasoned professionals in the performing arts—suffer in silence. Some also try to hide their fear from others out of embarrassment, even from their spouses, other close relatives, and close friends.
Taking Action to Conquer Your Fear:
Although learning to enhance your public speaking or performance abilities is beneficial, it rarely suffices to significantly lessen your fear. All negative impressions, ideas, thoughts, pictures, and predictions you may have regarding public speaking or performing must be addressed and revised. And it’s frequently beneficial to delve deeper into the fears associated with being heard and seen by others, exhibiting vulnerability, and being viewed as less-than-perfect. The key to healing is learning to accept who you are and letting go of the need to prove it to other people.
It is advised that you acquire the skills necessary to control your fear and anxiety rather than relying solely on prescription drugs or herbal remedies. Using cognitive-behavioural techniques is also essential if you want to break the habit of avoiding scary situations. While avoiding something may make you feel better right away, it ultimately makes you more afraid.
To cope with the symptoms of performance anxiety, some people might decide to take medication or use alternative treatments. Find out which medical procedure is best for you by speaking with your doctor.
Try these 10 suggestions to lessen stage fright:
- Turn your attention away from yourself and your worry and onto your genuine mission, which is to add something worthwhile to your audience.
- Quit worrying yourself by imagining all the possible disasters. Instead, centre your attention on soothing and consoling ideas and images.
- Refuse to entertain ideas that undermine your confidence and instil self-doubt.
- Use techniques to relax and quiet your body and mind, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises.
- Exercise, a healthy diet, and other positive lifestyle choices should all be made. Caffeine, sweets, and alcohol should all be kept to a minimum.
- Envision your accomplishment by keeping your attention on your fortitude and capacity to deal with difficult circumstances.
- To hear your voice, prepare your material in advance and read it out.
- Establish relationships with your audience: Think of people as friends rather than foes, and greet them with a smile.
- Adopt a self-assured, secure stance while standing or sitting. Make eye contact while remaining welcoming and open.
- Stop attempting to be flawless and accept that mistakes will be made. Be yourself and be natural.
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Writer:
Risalat Rahman Hridoy
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE