Public Speaking: Overcoming Fear

It is well known that fear of public speaking ranks up there with that of death, snakes, and spiders. Why is it that speaking in front of a group of people solicits such fright and dread?

Why are we so afraid?

Let us begin by attempting to answer this question.

Glossophobia, or speech anxiety, is the fear of speaking in public. Wikipedia lists symptoms related to this phobia as “intense anxiety prior to, or simply at the thought of, having to verbally communicate with any group; physical distress, nausea, or feelings of panic.”

You are not alone!

If you have ever experienced these symptoms, you are not alone. Most speakers wrestle with anxiety to a greater or lesser degree. Some speakers do so before, others during, and still others after speaking engagements.

How do you deal with fear and anxiety?

So let’s begin by helping those who struggle with this common problem. Tell us how you have learned to deal with fear and anxiety related to public speaking?

Tell us to what degree you have wrestled with this issue and what you have done to overcome it?

Do you struggle with fear of public speaking?
If you do, you will find these courses helpful:
Vanquish Fear & Anxiety – Fear of Public Speaking Course
Overcoming Fear