Speech anxiety is a phobia affecting millions of people worldwide. While some anxiety is common during a presentation, too much can be detrimental to a speech. Fortunately, there are helpful methods to cure speech anxiety.
Recognize Anxiety
Recognize that you have speech anxiety. Speech anxiety comes in varying degrees and with different symptoms. You may find that your mind goes blank, your voice quivers, your body goes weak or that you sweat while speaking. Vomiting is also a telltale sign of severe speech anxiety. Most people are somewhat nervous before a presentation, but they become at ease during their speech. Those with a pronounced fear of public speaking become more anxious throughout their speech until it's almost mentally crippling. Unfortunately, intense fear of public speaking does not go away on its own. Recognize whether your speech anxiety is affecting your ability to speak and perform in public, and consciously use methods to cure speech anxiety throughout your presentation.
Preparation
Preparation is the first step to a great speech. Face the speech head on and do not evade it. According to Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin of the Mayo Clinic, your fear of public speaking won't improve unless you take the proper steps to prepare yourself.
Research your topic vigorously and understand how all the pieces fit. Knowing your topic gives you confidence to talk fluidly about its ins and outs. Visit a library or search online for valid sources on your topic.
Plot out and organize all the vital information that you want to include in the speech. Organization allows you to flow from one subject to the next with ease. Start by writing out all the information that you want to include, and then list how you'll present that information. Examples of presentation materials include PowerPoint presentations, slide shows or a live demonstration.
Practice makes perfect. Practice your speech in front of a mirror or with people you know well. Run through your speech numerous times before you present it and commit it to memory for fewer mistakes.
Relax
Arrive early on the day of your speech and become familiar with the room. Feeling comfortable in your speaking environment allows you to relax. Walk around the room and set up your visual aids and other devices for your presentation. Make sure everything works--including projectors, computers and lights.
Talk to people as they arrive. Become familiar with those who will be listening to your speech. Try to relax and speak as if you were in front of old friends.
During your presentation, focus only on the substance of the speech. Take a deep breath before you begin, take your time, speak slowly, and think about what you are saying. Realize that the audience is not judging you on your speaking skills but is instead there to hear the information you're presenting.
After your speech, reward yourself. Reinforce the positive aspects of your speech and be confident that you performed well.
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