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How to Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking

Last Updated: February 28, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Gale McCreary and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Gale McCreary is the Founder and Chief Coordinator of SpeechStory, a nonprofit organization focused on improving communication skills in youth. She was previously a Silicon Valley CEO and President of a Toastmasters International chapter. She has been recognized as Santa Barbara Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year and received Congressional recognition for providing a Family-Friendly work environment. She has a BS in Biology from Stanford University. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 869,177 times.

If you’re afraid of public speaking, you’re not alone. It’s totally normal to have performance anxiety when giving a speech. Fortunately, it’s possible to overcome your fear so you can give effective public speeches. First, build your confidence by knowing your topic well and preparing for your speech. Then, try relaxation techniques to help you deal with your performance anxiety. Additionally, confront your worries so you can let them go. If you continue to struggle with public speaking , take a class or reach out to someone who can help.

Speaking Help

Building Your Confidence

• When you choose a speech topic, try to pick a subject that you already know about.
• If you’re short on time, do an Internet search and read the first few sources that come up. However, make sure these sources are reliable .

• Your speech doesn’t have to be perfect. You can make revisions while you practice it.

Variation: Make an outline of what you want to say for a quick, easy option. Write down the main points you want to make, as well as the evidence or support for those points. You can even use this outline as your notes when you give your speech.

• A. Less trash
• B. Landfills last longer
• A. Used for new products
• B. Cuts use of raw materials
• A. Can choose recycled
• B. Brands meet consumer wants

• If you have a time limit for your speech, time yourself when you're practicing. Then, make adjustments if you need to increase the length or cut it down.
• Just listen to your voice at first. Get a feel for the sound of your speech and make adjustments as necessary.
• When you’re in front of the mirror, practice making gestures or facial expressions. See what feels right to you.

• Don’t worry about the quality of the video or about anyone else seeing it. This video is just for you.

• If you’re really nervous, start with just 1 person. Then, gradually increase the number of people in your audience.

Dealing with Performance Anxiety

• Try thinking of a scene from your favorite comedy. As another option, recite a joke you enjoy.
• If you can, look at your favorite memes on your phone to help you smile naturally.

• If you’re about to go on stage, simply breathe deeply, drawing the air down into your stomach. Then, release out of your mouth.
• Breathing deeply can release the tension in your body and help you calm down quickly.

• Your blood goes to your limbs during a fight or flight response because your body is anticipating needing to get physical.
• You should start to feel calmer after a few minutes.

• This can help you relax because it makes you feel like you can be successful.

• For instance, let’s say you catch yourself thinking, “I’m going to look stupid up there.” Challenge this by asking yourself, “Why do I think this?” and “What could go right?” Then, tell yourself, “I’m well-prepared for this speech, so I know I’ll look knowledgeable.”

• For instance, you might look for public speaking groups on Meetup.com to find opportunities.
• Offer to give a short presentation to a local Boy Scout, Girl Scout, or Cub Scout troop.

Adam Dorsay, PsyD

The goal is to feel the fear and press on anyway. After you're done, do a post-game analysis and ask yourself, "What did I do well?" and "What could I do better next time?"

Confronting Your Worries

• Common worries include being judged, making a mistake, not measuring up, or making a bad impression.

• For example, let's say you're worried that you will forget what you have to say. You could remind yourself that you know your topic well and will have your note card with you to refresh your memory, if you need it. Then, picture yourself using the note card during your speech.
• If the thing you're afraid of has actually happened to you, ease your fear by thinking about what you've done to prevent it from happening again. For instance, remind yourself that you've been thoroughly preparing for the speech and that you've practiced.

• Think about how you feel when you go to see someone speak. Are you hoping they’ll do a bad job? Do you look for mistakes or judge how nervous they look? Probably not.

• You might stand by the door as people come in to greet them.
• Don’t worry if you don’t meet everyone.
• You may feel more confident during your speech if you make eye contact with the people you met beforehand. However, this isn't necessary.

Getting Additional Help

• If you’re trying to improve your skills for work, look for a class that’s designed for business or professional public speaking. You might even be able to get your employer to send you to a professional workshop.

• Look for a therapist online or ask for a referral from your doctor.
• Check with your insurance company to find out if they will pay for your treatment.

• The first time you take the medication should be when you’re at home and don’t have any plans. This will help you see how it affects you.
• You might decide to use calming medication if you need to do public speaking for your job but are struggling to do it.

• You may have to join your local Toastmasters chapter to take advantage of their services. [21] X Research source

How Do You Remove Fear From Your Mind?

Community Q&A

Reader Videos

• Remember, you don't look as nervous as you feel. Thanks Helpful 615 Not Helpful 109
• Only you know what you are supposed to say, so it's okay to change things during the presentation. Don’t worry if you skip something because no one else knows. Thanks Helpful 17 Not Helpful 2

• Don't take anything personally. People who look like they aren't paying attention may be thinking about what you’re saying. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 1

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• ↑ https://hbr.org/2018/02/5-ways-to-get-over-your-fear-of-public-speaking
• ↑ https://www.psycom.net/glossophobia-fear-of-public-speaking
• ↑ https://jurnal.untan.ac.id/index.php/jpdpb/article/viewFile/28694/75676578529
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2015/06/breathing-is-the-key-to-persuasive-public-speaking
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/yec/2018/06/07/five-secrets-to-conquering-your-fear-of-public-speaking/#28ff731a546d
• ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm
• ↑ https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder/treatment/conquering-stage-fright
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/smashing-the-brainblocks/201711/how-conquer-the-fear-public-speaking
• ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/specific-phobias/expert-answers/fear-of-public-speaking/faq-20058416
• ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder.htm
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/speech-anxiety
• ↑ https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1334965.pdf
• ↑ https://psychcentral.com/anxiety/fear-of-public-speaking
• ↑ https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-overcome-anxiety-and-fear
• ↑ https://www.fnu.edu/fear-public-speaking-overcome/
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/

About This Article

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

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To overcome your fear of public speaking, try practicing a speech in front of a mirror to get yourself used to speaking aloud. You can also practice giving it to your friends or family to build your confidence in front of an audience. When you feel more confident speaking to yourself and your friends, try searching online for a public speaking class in your area, since this will help you learn what makes a great speech. You can also attend Toastmasters, which is a nonprofit organization which provides a safe space to practice your public speaking. If you find yourself being overwhelmed by anxiety about public speaking, consider working with a therapist to help ease your stress. For more tips from our Speech co-author, including how to identify the fears you have about public speaking, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Fear of public speaking: how can i overcome it, how can i overcome my fear of public speaking.

Fear of public speaking is a common form of anxiety. It can range from slight nervousness to paralyzing fear and panic. Many people with this fear avoid public speaking situations altogether, or they suffer through them with shaking hands and a quavering voice. But with preparation and persistence, you can overcome your fear.

These steps may help:

• Know your topic. The better you understand what you're talking about — and the more you care about the topic — the less likely you'll make a mistake or get off track. And if you do get lost, you'll be able to recover quickly. Take some time to consider what questions the audience may ask and have your responses ready.
• Get organized. Ahead of time, carefully plan out the information you want to present, including any props, audio or visual aids. The more organized you are, the less nervous you'll be. Use an outline on a small card to stay on track. If possible, visit the place where you'll be speaking and review available equipment before your presentation.
• Practice, and then practice some more. Practice your complete presentation several times. Do it for some people you're comfortable with and ask for feedback. It may also be helpful to practice with a few people with whom you're less familiar. Consider making a video of your presentation so you can watch it and see opportunities for improvement.
• Challenge specific worries. When you're afraid of something, you may overestimate the likelihood of bad things happening. List your specific worries. Then directly challenge them by identifying probable and alternative outcomes and any objective evidence that supports each worry or the likelihood that your feared outcomes will happen.
• Visualize your success. Imagine that your presentation will go well. Positive thoughts can help decrease some of your negativity about your social performance and relieve some anxiety.
• Do some deep breathing. This can be very calming. Take two or more deep, slow breaths before you get up to the podium and during your speech.
• Focus on your material, not on your audience. People mainly pay attention to new information — not how it's presented. They may not notice your nervousness. If audience members do notice that you're nervous, they may root for you and want your presentation to be a success.
• Don't fear a moment of silence. If you lose track of what you're saying or start to feel nervous and your mind goes blank, it may seem like you've been silent for an eternity. In reality, it's probably only a few seconds. Even if it's longer, it's likely your audience won't mind a pause to consider what you've been saying. Just take a few slow, deep breaths.
• Recognize your success. After your speech or presentation, give yourself a pat on the back. It may not have been perfect, but chances are you're far more critical of yourself than your audience is. See if any of your specific worries actually occurred. Everyone makes mistakes. Look at any mistakes you made as an opportunity to improve your skills.
• Get support. Join a group that offers support for people who have difficulty with public speaking. One effective resource is Toastmasters, a nonprofit organization with local chapters that focuses on training people in speaking and leadership skills.

If you can't overcome your fear with practice alone, consider seeking professional help. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a skills-based approach that can be a successful treatment for reducing fear of public speaking.

As another option, your doctor may prescribe a calming medication that you take before public speaking. If your doctor prescribes a medication, try it before your speaking engagement to see how it affects you.

Nervousness or anxiety in certain situations is normal, and public speaking is no exception. Known as performance anxiety, other examples include stage fright, test anxiety and writer's block. But people with severe performance anxiety that includes significant anxiety in other social situations may have social anxiety disorder (also called social phobia). Social anxiety disorder may require cognitive behavioral therapy, medications or a combination of the two.

Craig N. Sawchuk, Ph.D., L.P.

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• Social anxiety disorder (social phobia). In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5. 5th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association, 2013. http://dsm.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed April 18, 2017.
• 90 tips from Toastmasters. Toastmasters International. https://www.toastmasters.org/About/90th-Anniversary/90-Tips. Accessed April 18, 2017.
• Stein MB, et al. Approach to treating social anxiety disorder in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed April 18, 2017.
• How to keep fear of public speaking at bay. American Psychological Association. http://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/tips-sidebar.aspx. Accessed April 18, 2017.
• Jackson B, et al. Re-thinking anxiety: Using inoculation messages to reduce and reinterpret public speaking fears. PLOS One. 2017;12:e0169972.
• Sawchuk CN (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 24, 2017.

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Conquer Your Fear of Public Speaking: 7 Proven Strategies

Are you hearing your heart thump in your chest as you imagine getting up in front of hundreds of strangers to give a speech?

Do you suddenly feel like your throat is in a vice grip every time you think about speaking in public?

If so, you’re definitely not alone in your fear of public speaking. In fact, it’s one of the top fears in the world. But the countless possibilities in life that could be opened up if you could conquer your fear of public speaking are worth the effort. It’s just a matter of finding the right strategy to make it happen. That’s why we’re here today.

In this blog post, we’re going to explore seven of the most proven strategies people have used to successfully conquer their fear of public speaking, no matter how petrified they were at the outset.

So buckle up and get ready, because together, we’re about to take a deep dive into the world of public-speaking fear-conquering. Let’s do this!

Quick Explanation

Everyone feels nervous when speaking in public , but facing your fear is the most effective way to overcome it.

Practicing your presentation in front of small groups or individuals and developing healthy strategies for dealing with anxiety can help you feel prepared and confident when delivering a speech.

An Overview of Fear of Public Speaking

Fear of public speaking, also known as oratory anxiety and glossophobia, is a common psychological phobia characterized by intense feelings of dread, nervousness, and anxiety when facing a crowd.

It is estimated that at least 75% of people experience some type of speech anxiety when addressing an audience, making it one of the most common anxieties worldwide. The effects of fear of public speaking can manifest in physical symptoms including rapid heart rate, sweating, difficulty breathing, nausea, muscle tension, and even panic attacks. In more severe cases, it can lead to full paralysis.

Mental distress such as feeling overwhelmed and unable to control one’s thoughts are equally debilitating. Due to its prevalence, many debate whether fear of public speaking should be classified as an official medical condition.

Supporters argue that this fear is often rooted in deeper psychiatric issues and thus may require immoderate treatments like psychotherapy.

Others contend that the current term itself is too generic for diagnosis purposes. They suggest that the diagnosis ought to be further deconstructed into different types of fears such as those stemming from poor performance anxiety or inadequate preparation. While reasonable arguments can be made on both sides, it is clear that the fear of public speaking cannot be easily overlooked due its potential to impact quality of life negatively.

Regardless of whether it meets the standard for clinical diagnosis or not, individuals with speech anxiety should still seek professional treatment if necessary. The next section will delve into what causes fear of public speaking to better understand methods for tackling these uncomfortable emotions.

What Causes Fear of Public Speaking?

Fear of public speaking is a common problem that affects many people.

Whether giving presentations to coworkers, leading important meetings, or delivering lectures in front of large crowds, this fear can be debilitating and make it difficult for individuals to succeed in their professional roles. 

But what actually causes fear of public speaking? One argument is that the fear is learned and arises out of social conditioning. An innate fear of potential embarrassment or criticism from one's peer group can lead individuals to avoid public speaking situations entirely.

It could also be argued that fear of public speaking stems from a deeper sense of insecurity or lack of self-confidence.

If an individual does not feel capable or prepared enough to fulfill their role in these situations then they may become overwhelmed with anxiety and dread when called upon to speak publicly. Another argument is that the fear may have biological roots and is interconnected with our innate fight or flight response.

Speaking in public can create a sense of vulnerability which triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline within our bodies, causing us to become overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety and terror. Though there are different theories on what causes fear of public speaking, it’s clear that many people suffer from this condition.

Luckily, there are methods and strategies to help overcome this fear. The next section will provide guidance on how to conquer your fear of public speaking through proven techniques and strategies .

How to Overcome Fear of Public Speaking

Fear of public speaking can be a challenging problem to overcome, but it is not impossible. There are several strategies and tactics to help individuals conquer their fears, resulting in more confident and successful public speaking engagements .

In order to successfully rid yourself of this fear, you must first understand the root cause of it. You may find comfort in realizing that public speaking is a shared fear among many people. It is not something that you have to suffer through alone; therefore you still can find ways to communicate with an audience confidently even if your fear persists. 

Understanding the physical symptoms associated with the fear can also be beneficial; such as quickly beating heart rate, dizziness, and stuck or blocked thoughts.

Becoming aware of these symptoms can provide an indication that anxiety is mounting prior to giving a speech so that appropriate steps may be taken. It’s important to learn proper speech preparation techniques in order to achieve both mental and physical relaxation prior to engaging with your audience.

Proper breathing exercises before and during your speech while standing tall, maintaining eye contact and projecting your voice can all help alleviate stress levels.

Additionally, practicing the speech out loud with family and friends or recording yourself delivering it can help gain confidence and familiarity which will reduce anxiety levels significantly.

Knowing your material well is another important step in conquering the fear: having confidence that you know what to say allows for more spontaneous delivery which will grab and keep people’s attention better than a memorized script can. Indeed, while public speaking is still considered one of the scariest tasks by many people, achievable successes are possible given that the right preparation and practice takes place before the event.

With hard work, determination, positive thinking and mindful preparation strategies in place, the fear of public speaking can become manageable over time. Now that we understand how to overcome fear of public speaking, let's discuss tips for successful public speaking which will result in captivating your audience for maximum impact.

Tips for Successful Public Speaking

Public speaking is a skill that, with practice and the right strategies, can be mastered. Utilizing techniques to boost confidence in public speaking can increase the chances of successful delivery of one’s message.

There are many tips for successful public speaking that can help people overcome their fear and give an impressive presentation. Research is a key part of preparing for a presentation . Taking the time to learn a topic thoroughly will enable the presenter to make well-informed statements during the speech.

This knowledge will also lead to more confidence while on stage, allowing the speaker to focus on engaging their audience rather than worrying about instantaneous recall of facts. Practicing the presentation beforehand is important in order to become comfortable with the material. Going through a couple of complete run-throughs will help build familiarity with the content, including how it needs to sound when spoken aloud.

This practice period also allows speakers to determine breaks in between topics and decide which parts need more emphasis or questions from the audience. Thus, practicing helps reduce anxiety so that speakers can present confidently without panic or hesitation. Along with these two fundamentals, there are other actions that can further enhance successful public speaking such as selecting attractive visuals and using an appropriate style of delivery .

Visuals can be helpful tools if used correctly and add contrast and emotion to presentations, especially if they create movement or tie directly into each point being made by the speaker.

Furthermore, it is important to pay attention to tone, speed and pauses while delivering a speech; this will keep listener’s attention and prevent talking too fast or slow, as well as allowing rests for absorbing information and transitioning effectively between ideas. Finally, leaving time at the end for questions is beneficial because engaging your listeners establishes relationship.

Not only does it show respect towards those listening but provides an opportunity for them to understand points further more and provide feedback. Asking questions throughout activates their attention span and allows some sort of personal connection while they contemplate possible responses. Overall, these simple tips will ensure successful public speaking by building confidence in oneself prior to presenting and executing strong visuals, vocal tone variation and classroom interactions during that same session.

With these methods in mind plus enough research and practice preceding a speech, anyone should feel prepared for any kind of talking engagement that comes their way.

As preparation is essential for good results in terms of public speaking, performance anxiety is another factor that must be taken into account when developing strategies for success in this area.

In the following section we’ll take a look at different ways to reduce performance anxiety ahead of presenting publicly.

Performance Anxiety

Performance anxiety is an inevitable part of public speaking. Even the most experienced of speakers experiences feelings of nervousness or apprehension when delivering a speech to an audience. It can be overwhelming and affect your ability to give a successful presentation. The key to overcoming performance anxiety is understanding it and finding ways to cope. First, you should understand that feeling anxious before presenting is natural. According to numerous studies, even extreme anxiety can be beneficial in some ways by increasing motivation and focus. However, too much anxiety can lead to problems with memory recall and make you feel out of control on stage.

To combat this, make sure you take deep breaths and talk slowly . This will help you feel calmer and more confident when you present. Additionally, practice relaxation techniques like meditation and visualisation which can help you feel more relaxed before taking the stage. When considering how to face fear of public speaking, it's important not to let fear paralyse you into inaction. Try taking small steps towards your goals—the purpose of public speaking—and expanding them as your level of comfort grows. Also, learn from mistakes as they come without letting them overwhelm or discourage you. Finally, don’t forget positive self-talk; it’s powerful in helping you remain calm in difficult situations. Having positive thoughts will boost your self-esteem and help reduce any worries or doubts that creep up while delivering a speech. In order to thrive in the world of public speaking, learning how to manage performance anxiety is essential.

With a few helpful strategies such as deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and positive self-talk, anyone feeling overwhelmed with apprehension about getting on stage can start to conquer their fear for good.

Now let’s move on to discussing how best one can prepare for presentations so that fear won't get the best of them in front of an audience.

Preparing for Presentations

For speakers, nothing is more important than being well-prepared for a presentation. Despite the fears you may have surrounding the experience and outcome of your speech, proper preparation can help put you at ease and even enhance your chances of success.

Preparation covers everything from researching your topic thoroughly to developing the content of your presentation, approaching the setup of your speech and running rehearsals of what you’ll say. Although some people prefer to “wing it” when giving a presentation, this approach comes with quite a few risks. You may find that you don't stay on track during the speech or encounter surprises along the way which disrupts its flow even further.

Therefore, if you want to be sure that your presentation is entertaining and informative for its entire duration, it's important to begin preparing for it ahead of time. The first step in preparation is researching topics related to the presentation thoroughly. This research should cover background information related to the story or topic you are discussing as well as any facts or figures that may come in handy.

Once you have researched all relevant information necessary, things like setting up a timeline of events or organizing all your thoughts into a clear structure will help bring this all together.

Having a thorough understanding and knowledge of the subject also allows you to take into consideration potentially tricky points where someone may challenge your statement such as an opposing viewpoint.

By discussing oppositions directly instead of avoiding them you can prove that it has been taken into consideration fully before defending your own opinion on it. Organizing visual aids and practicing out loud can also help build confidence leading up to the speech itself.

Storytelling techniques are welcomed here as they allow for more creativity and can be used with many types of audiences no matter their age or level of knowledge on the topic.

From using analogies to metaphors and even props during the speech, these techniques allow you to make an emotional connection with each audience member by presenting in multiple ways. Your body language tells just as much about yourself as your words do during a presentation so it's essential to ensure comfort in body positioning as well as vocal delivery too. 

Managing nerves is vital here - take deep breaths before beginning, swallow saliva regularly and purposefully maintain direct eye contact with each audience member at least once during the talk.

Or better yet if possible speak directly with people in between sentences depending on topic relevancy when needed; this relaxes both sides naturally allowing a more interactive experience overall. Finally, it's worth rehearsing out loud at least three times so that smooth delivery comes unconsciously while speaking - here practice correct pronunciation of words while speaking slightly louder than usual as well as pacing yourself according to how long you want certain aspects drawn out for or leaving enough space for breaths when needed throughout the course of the presentation too - is key for success. All in all, preparation plays an essential role in dealing with public speaking fear successfully and often determines whether or not yourself and those listening remain engaged throughout its entirety.

Having placed such effort thus far into preparing for presentations, it’s natural that body language is influential here too. Thus, in our following section we’ll discuss how managing reactions from the audience accordingly using body language techniques will influence outcomes within public speaking circles equally so too - Stay tuned!

Body Language and Reactions from the Audience

Visible body language and reactions from the audience can play a crucial role in how well public speaking is perceived by both the speaker and the audience.

When presenting, a presenter should make sure to focus on their postures and facial expressions . Simple cues such as maintaining eye contact, good posture, and gesturing appropriately show an engaged audience that the speaker is present, articulate , knowledgeable, and confident.

It can also help stay connected with the listeners. These visible signals can create a level of trust between the speaker and their listeners, which is essential for any successful presentation. On the other hand, reactions from the audience can be unpredictable and daunting even to experienced speakers. Knowing your material may not be enough if the audience isn't responding positively. If there are no signs of engagement or if they appear tired or bored with what you’re saying, it's easy to become overwhelmed or lose confidence. To ensure your presentation is received well even if the audience’s reaction may appear less than enthusiastic, try using feedback loops to help inform your responses.

Being prepared to recognize trends in the responses of your listeners will help you adjust and tailor your content accordingly so that it resonates better with them. This kind of active engagement can extend the impact of your message and create a more meaningful experience for both yourself and your listeners. By paying attention to body language and managing reactions from the audience during a presentation, speakers can build trust with their listeners, adjust their content tactics, and create engaging interactions for a successful speaking experience.

Top Takeaways

Proper body language and audience reactions can play a crucial part of how public speaking is perceived by both the speaker and the audience.

Presenters should maintain eye contact, good posture, and appropriate gesturing to convey messages of presence, articulation, confidence, and knowledge.

Reactions from the audience can be unpredictable so speakers should prepare to recognize trends in responses in order to adjust their content accordingly for a successful speaking experience.

Coping Strategies for Success

Developing positive coping strategies to help alleviate the fear of public speaking is an important step in overall confidence and success.

As frightening as the prospect of speaking in public may seem, having a few effective tools in one’s toolbox can make it much easier. The first step is accepting that feeling anxious or nervous when engaging in public speaking is a normal response.

Everyone feels these emotions at some point. This can mean taking on a more positive attitude towards the procedure, allowing one to move forward from a perspective of acceptance instead of fear.

Additionally, it helps to actually practice speeches out loud – even for those who are experienced public speakers. Practicing will not only help with comfort levels but also increase knowledge and enthusiasm of the material being presented. In terms of honing communication skills , posture is key! Keeping one's back straight projects professionalism, enthusiasm, and confidence. It will also give the audience the impression that the speaker is “in charge”.

It’s also beneficial to open with an attention-grabber by telling a short story or interesting anecdote related to your topic; this will help to draw in listeners. Using props may also help to break up any monotony and keep listeners engaged throughout the speech.

Thirdly, if something goes wrong during the talk such as forgetting lines or getting off-track , take a few deep breaths and take it as an opportunity to improvise – just as long as it’s done in a professional manner.

Lastly, if all else fails, incorporate some lighthearted joking into the presentation - this can ease tense energy and help create healthier interactions between performers and listeners. Of course, no two people have the same experiences when confronted with the fear of public speaking so what works for one may not work for another; ultimately it’s about finding what works best for each individual person and building upon that.

With these tips in mind and determination, conquering one's fear of speaking publicly should become ten times less scary! To conclude this discussion on coping strategies for success, next we will look at how we can tie all these ideas together into a holistic approach - our section on conclusion.

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health , approximately 73% of people self-report some level of fear when it comes to public speaking.
• A study from 2018 found that 65.5% of participants rated their fear of public speaking above 5 on a scale from 0 to 10, where 10 is the highest level of fear.
• Research indicates that up to 60% of people experience anxiety or terror in social situations such as public speaking.

Public speaking can be a daunting prospect for many people, making it difficult to express themselves or their ideas.

However, there are ways of conquering that fear and gaining the confidence to speak effectively in public.

The seven proven strategies discussed here can help anyone who wants to improve their public speaking skills .

Preparation and practice are essential components of success. It can also be beneficial to break large presentations into smaller chunks, draw from personal experience, and make use of visual aids.

Additionally, focusing on an audience-centered approach, as well as developing an attentive presence, can help speakers command the attention of their listeners.

Only by carefully considering all these components together will any speaker create a successful presentation that allows them to express their message clearly and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What resources are available to help me manage my fear of public speaking.

When it comes to managing your fear of public speaking, there are a number of resources available to you. First and foremost, working with a professional coach may be the most effective way to help you face your fear. A coach can provide personalized guidance and teaching on how to become an effective speaker . They can also help you develop strategies to combat your nerves before, during, and after presentations. In addition, organizations such as Toastmasters International and the National Speakers Association offer courses and seminars to help people learn the skills necessary to be successful in the public speaking arena. You could also join local meetup groups or communities for those interested in public speaking, which can provide support and peer feedback. Finally, there are many online resources such as books, ebooks, videos, podcasts and apps available which teach techniques for calming yourself before presenting and provide tips for giving great speeches.

Additionally, online forums aimed at helping those conquer their fear of public speaking can act as virtual support systems where members encourage one another with words of advice or discussion about difficult topics.

What tips can I use to overcome my fear of public speaking?

There are several strategies you can use to help you overcome your fear of public speaking. 1. Recognize that everyone is afraid of public speaking to some degree. Knowing that your fear is normal and shared by others can help you feel more comfortable with the idea of presenting in front of an audience. 2. Understand why you are afraid. Being aware of your triggers, such as worries about being judged or looked down on , can help you develop healthy ways to respond in these situations. 3. Prepare thoroughly. Creating a well-structured talk and rehearsing your material ahead of time will ensure you have confidence in the information you are sharing and less anxiety around giving the speech itself. 4. Practice mindfulness and breathing exercises before giving your talk to relax and help ground yourself in the present moment. 5. Speak slower than usual to provoke less anxious thoughts during your presentation and maintain an even narrative throughout. 6. Visualize success. Positive self-talk and visualization can reduce nervous tension before and during your talk by reminding yourself of successes from past presentations or imagined outcomes from a successful one ahead of time. 7. Reach out for support from friends, family or colleagues who may be able to provide encouragement, feedback or tips for improving future talks.

What techniques can I use to become a more confident public speaker?

1. Know Your Audience: Knowing as much as possible about who is in your audience and what they expect from you will help you feel more comfortable and confident when presenting. This means doing research on the group before you speak, so that your material is on-point with their interests. 2. Prepare Thoroughly: Spend plenty of time preparing for your presentation, rehearse it until you are comfortable with the material and the delivery. Once you’ve been through multiple practice sessions, you should be able to deliver your speech or presentation without any hitches. 3. Use Visual Aids: Having something visual to look at while speaking can help to lessen any anxiety or fear you may have. Visual aids such as slides , images, and charts can also assist in communicating your message more clearly and engaging with the audience better. 4. Practice Breath Control: Practice deep breathing before speaking in order to control any feelings of fear or anxiety. Inhale slowly to the count of three, hold it for two seconds, then exhale slowly for three seconds. 5. Take Time To Relax: Do some relaxation exercises before giving your presentation in order to calm down and boost confidence levels. This can include stretching exercises or visualization techniques that allow you to focus on the positive aspects of public speaking rather than being afraid of negative outcomes. 6. Try Out Different Voice Tones And Gestures: Try varying up the way you use your body language, gestures, tempo and voice tone when delivering your speech in order to inject more energy into it and keep people interested in what you’re saying. 7. Rehearse With Friends And Others: Ask close friends and other trusted individuals to provide feedback on how you can effectively communicate your message in a confident manner while keeping it interesting for the audience.

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How to Manage Public Speaking Anxiety

Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

Luis Alvarez / Getty Images

Speech Anxiety and SAD

How to prepare for a speech.

Public speaking anxiety, also known as glossophobia , is one of the most commonly reported social fears.

While some people may feel nervous about giving a speech or presentation if you have social anxiety disorder (SAD) , public speaking anxiety may take over your life.

Public speaking anxiety may also be called speech anxiety or performance anxiety and is a type of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Social anxiety disorder, also sometimes referred to as social phobia, is one of the most common types of mental health conditions.

Public Speaking Anxiety Symptoms

Symptoms of public speaking anxiety are the same as those that occur for social anxiety disorder, but they only happen in the context of speaking in public.

If you live with public speaking anxiety, you may worry weeks or months in advance of a speech or presentation, and you probably have severe physical symptoms of anxiety during a speech, such as:

• Pounding heart
• Quivering voice
• Shortness of breath
• Upset stomach

Causes of Public Speaking Anxiety

These symptoms are a result of the fight or flight response —a rush of adrenaline that prepares you for danger. When there is no real physical threat, it can feel as though you have lost control of your body. This makes it very hard to do well during public speaking and may cause you to avoid situations in which you may have to speak in public.

How Is Public Speaking Anxiety Is Diagnosed

Public speaking anxiety may be diagnosed as SAD if it significantly interferes with your life. This fear of public speaking anxiety can cause problems such as:

• Changing courses at college to avoid a required oral presentation
• Changing jobs or careers
• Turning down promotions because of public speaking obligations
• Failing to give a speech when it would be appropriate (e.g., best man at a wedding)

If you have intense anxiety symptoms while speaking in public and your ability to live your life the way that you would like is affected by it, you may have SAD.

Public Speaking Anxiety Treatment

Fortunately, effective treatments for public speaking anxiety are avaible. Such treatment may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.

Short-term therapy such as systematic desensitization and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful to learn how to manage anxiety symptoms and anxious thoughts that trigger them.

Ask your doctor for a referral to a therapist who can offer this type of therapy; in particular, it will be helpful if the therapist has experience in treating social anxiety and/or public speaking anxiety.

Research has also found that virtual reality (VR) therapy can also be an effective way to treat public speaking anxiety. One analysis found that students treated with VR therapy were able to experience positive benefits in as little as a week with between one and 12 sessions of VR therapy. The research also found that VR sessions were effective while being less invasive than in-person treatment sessions.

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If you live with public speaking anxiety that is causing you significant distress, ask your doctor about medication that can help. Short-term medications known as beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) can be taken prior to a speech or presentation to block the symptoms of anxiety.

Other medications may also be prescribed for longer-term treatment of SAD, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). When used in conjunction with therapy, you may find the medication helps to reduce your phobia of public speaking.

In addition to traditional treatment, there are several strategies that you can use to cope with speech anxiety and become better at public speaking in general . Public speaking is like any activity—better preparation equals better performance. Being better prepared will boost your confidence and make it easier to concentrate on delivering your message.

Even if you have SAD, with proper treatment and time invested in preparation, you can deliver a successful speech or presentation.

Pre-Performance Planning

Taking some steps to plan before you give a speech can help you better control feelings of anxiety. Before you give a speech or public performance:

• Choose a topic that interests you . If you are able, choose a topic that you are excited about. If you are not able to choose the topic, try using an approach to the topic that you find interesting. For example, you could tell a personal story that relates to the topic as a way to introduce your speech. This will ensure that you are engaged in your topic and motivated to research and prepare. When you present, others will feel your enthusiasm and be interested in what you have to say.
• Become familiar with the venue . Ideally, visit the conference room, classroom, auditorium, or banquet hall where you will be presenting before you give your speech. If possible, try practicing at least once in the environment that you will be speaking in. Being familiar with the venue and knowing where needed audio-visual components are ahead of time will mean one less thing to worry about at the time of your speech.
• Ask for accommodations . Accommodations are changes to your work environment that help you to manage your anxiety. This might mean asking for a podium, having a pitcher of ice water handy, bringing in audiovisual equipment, or even choosing to stay seated if appropriate. If you have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder such as social anxiety disorder (SAD), you may be eligible for these through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Don’t script it . Have you ever sat through a speech where someone read from a prepared script word for word? You probably don’t recall much of what was said. Instead, prepare a list of key points on paper or notecards that you can refer to.
• Develop a routine . Put together a routine for managing anxiety on the day of a speech or presentation. This routine should help to put you in the proper frame of mind and allow you to maintain a relaxed state. An example might be exercising or practicing meditation on the morning of a speech.

Practice and Visualization

Even people who are comfortable speaking in public rehearse their speeches many times to get them right. Practicing your speech 10, 20, or even 30 times will give you confidence in your ability to deliver.

If your talk has a time limit, time yourself during practice runs and adjust your content as needed to fit within the time that you have. Lots of practice will help boost your self-confidence .

• Prepare for difficult questions . Before your presentation, try to anticipate hard questions and critical comments that might arise, and prepare responses ahead of time. Deal with a difficult audience member by paying them a compliment or finding something that you can agree on. Say something like, “Thanks for that important question” or “I really appreciate your comment.” Convey that you are open-minded and relaxed. If you don’t know how to answer the question, say you will look into it.
• Get some perspective . During a practice run, speak in front of a mirror or record yourself on a smartphone. Make note of how you appear and identify any nervous habits to avoid. This step is best done after you have received therapy or medication to manage your anxiety.
• Imagine yourself succeeding . Did you know your brain can’t tell the difference between an imagined activity and a real one? That is why elite athletes use visualization to improve athletic performance. As you practice your speech (remember 10, 20, or even 30 times!), imagine yourself wowing the audience with your amazing oratorical skills. Over time, what you imagine will be translated into what you are capable of.
• Learn to accept some anxiety . Even professional performers experience a bit of nervous excitement before a performance—in fact, most believe that a little anxiety actually makes you a better speaker. Learn to accept that you will always be a little anxious about giving a speech, but that it is normal and common to feel this way.

Setting Goals

Instead of trying to just scrape by, make it a personal goal to become an excellent public speaker. With proper treatment and lots of practice, you can become good at speaking in public. You might even end up enjoying it!

Put things into perspective. If you find that public speaking isn’t one of your strengths, remember that it is only one aspect of your life. We all have strengths in different areas. Instead, make it a goal simply to be more comfortable in front of an audience, so that public speaking anxiety doesn’t prevent you from achieving other goals in life.

A Word From Verywell

In the end, preparing well for a speech or presentation gives you confidence that you have done everything possible to succeed. Give yourself the tools and the ability to succeed, and be sure to include strategies for managing anxiety. These public-speaking tips should be used to complement traditional treatment methods for SAD, such as therapy and medication.

Crome E, Baillie A. Mild to severe social fears: Ranking types of feared social situations using item response theory . J Anxiety Disord . 2014;28(5):471-479. doi:10.1016/j.janxdis.2014.05.002

Pull CB. Current status of knowledge on public-speaking anxiety . Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2012;25(1):32-8. doi:10.1097/YCO.0b013e32834e06dc

Goldstein DS. Adrenal responses to stress . Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2010;30(8):1433-40. doi:10.1007/s10571-010-9606-9

Anderson PL, Zimand E, Hodges LF, Rothbaum BO. Cognitive behavioral therapy for public-speaking anxiety using virtual reality for exposure . Depress Anxiety. 2005;22(3):156-8. doi:10.1002/da.20090

Hinojo-Lucena FJ, Aznar-Díaz I, Cáceres-Reche MP, Trujillo-Torres JM, Romero-Rodríguez JM. Virtual reality treatment for public speaking anxiety in students. advancements and results in personalized medicine .  J Pers Med . 2020;10(1):14. doi:10.3390/jpm10010014

Steenen SA, van Wijk AJ, van der Heijden GJ, van Westrhenen R, de Lange J, de Jongh A. Propranolol for the treatment of anxiety disorders: Systematic review and meta-analysis . J Psychopharmacol (Oxford). 2016;30(2):128-39. doi:10.1177/0269881115612236

By Arlin Cuncic, MA Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

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How Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking

If the idea of getting up in front of a group of people — a big or small audience, online or in-person — makes you sweat, you might suffer from the  fear of public speaking.

Public speaking is a fantastic skill I believe most people should master, though. Whether you want to make a career out of it or just want to be able to feel comfortable speaking publicly on a personal level.

Regardless of the fears you may have right now, it is possible for you to become a successful motivational public speaker .

So how do you kick the public speaking anxiety? Learn some public speaking facts and try these tips to learn how to overcome your fear of public speaking and become a public speaking master.

Why Are People Afraid of Public Speaking?

It may help you to know that you are not alone in your fear of public speaking. In many, it can cause a fight or flight response. In fact, forty percent of Americans suffer from glossophobia . 

What is glossophobia really? It is an anxiety disorder and a common fear – and it goes beyond just being nervous or worrying about being in front of an audience.

Some of the physical symptoms you might feel include your heart racing and you may find it harder to breathe (hint it is always helpful to take a couple of deep breaths). You could feel sweaty, dizzy, or nauseous.

You might be shaking uncontrollably or even want to run out of the room. This can be from starting your speech, or even before when making direct eye contact with members of the audience.

Many people learn how to overcome their public speaking fears by learning relaxation techniques and also by  taking public speaking classes.

Another method that has proven to work is to practice exposure therapy (more on that), however, it is very effective for people who may be suffering from various types of anxiety disorders such as social phobia.

Understanding the power of positive thinking can also help you overcome your fear of public speaking. 

Whether you have glossophobia or are just nervous about your speech, the right tools will give you the confidence you need to achieve your public speaking goals.

Here Are My Tips to Help You Overcome The Fear of Public Speaking

As someone who’s made a career out of speaking publicly , I’ve personally tested and tried each of these tips to help me grow as a speaker. This advice has also helped many people learn how to overcome their fear of public speaking.  Here are the key points that I’ve learned and want to share with you.

1. Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About

When you care about something, it becomes easier to speak about it and get others invested and passionate about what you’re talking about as well. 

So if you’re going to speak on a topic, make sure it’s something you’re passionate about.

Overcome nervous public speaking feelings by choosing a topic that:

• Has had an inordinate impact on you
• You want to share with others
• You intensely feel others could benefit from knowing 
• You can speak about it from the heart

Other people can benefit from the knowledge you have gained through your unique experiences. Combine your passions with your desire to improve others’ lives to calm your nerves and boost your confidence in front of an audience.

2. Get Organized

A big part of what causes fear of public speaking is not being prepared. 

One of the best things you can do to help you feel more prepared and confident in your speech is to stay organized.

Get your notes together and outline the main points of your speech . Plan how you are going to start your speech to grab the attention of your audience within the first 30 seconds.

Consider color-coding certain parts of your speech so they are easy to refer to.

If you plan to use visual aids, get them together and practice using them. Know where you will place them during your speech.

Make sure your technology is in working order as well. Be familiar with your laptop, tablet, or phone and how to cast your screen or run a projector if that is what you will be using.

Ask questions about the presentation area so you know what to expect. Will there be a podium? Will you have a microphone? Will you wait backstage before your speech or with the audience?

3. Practice Practice Practice

Nothing takes the place of practicing and preparing for your speech. Write out a script of your key points, but don’t read from the script word for word. 

One of my best fear of tips to combat a fear of public speaking is to prepare for your speech so well that you could answer any possible question thrown at you.

When someone asks me how he can build effective communication skills and improve his public speaking, I quote the words of Elbert Hubbard, who said, “The only way to learn to speak is to speak and speak, and speak and speak, and speak and speak and speak.”

4. Perform Your Speech in Front of a Mirror

Practice your speech in front of the mirror as if you were speaking directly to someone. If you really want to learn how to overcome stage fright, then pay attention to:

• Your facial expressions
• Your gestures
• Your body movements
• How welcoming you appear

When you have gentle expressions and a calm demeanor when you speak, you will be more welcoming to your audience.

5. Record Yourself and Learn

Think about how top athletes go back and watch tapes of their gameplay to see how to improve. To overcome your fear of public speaking, you would be essentially doing the same thing by recording your speech.

Set up your phone or a video camera to record your speech. Record yourself giving the talk from beginning to end. If you stumble over your words, forget something, or mess up, just keep recording.

Then listen to it or watch it, and make notes on how you could make it better. Some people do not like listening to the sound of their voice on tape, so it is important that you get used to your own voice and speaking style.

6. Work on Your Breath

Sometimes when speaking, we also tend to ramble. Working on your breathing will help you learn how to pace yourself in your speech so you don’t ramble or speed through at a pace your audience can’t keep up with.

When you focus on your breathing your voice will have more resonance and you will relax. 

Breathe calmly and focus on getting into a rhythm. Although this is an exercise to overcome public speaking anxiety, breathwork will help reduce stress and improve clarity in all areas of life.

7. Have Someone Review Your Presentation 

Sometimes we get in our own heads about our presentations, and it can be helpful to have someone we are close with who can still remain objective review the speech to provide feedback before presenting in front of the audience.

If you can, have someone else you trust to listen to your speech for personalized public speaking help. Choose someone that would be considered close to the audience you’re planning to present to in order to get the best feedback.

This tip follows the principle of exposure therapy, which have you confront your fear of speaking in front of someone by speaking in front of someone. 

Starting small with an audience of one who can give you positive feedback will help you visualize just speaking to that one person when it is time to give your speech — from your introductory statement to the end of your speech if needed.

8. Take a Public Speaking Class

One of the best ways to improve public speaking and your comfort with it — and leave the fear of public speaking in your past — is to take public speaking courses .

There are many options out there — whether you take them at the university level or online in your spare time.

Invest in yourself as a public speaker as you would by going to school to earn a degree or certification for a better-paying job. While many speakers start out by giving speeches for free, the typical compensation for a public speaking event is $4,500 to $7,500.

The right training tools can help you become a six-figure speaker too. 

9. Exercise Before You Speak

One of my tips for public speaking anxiety that you may not think of is to exercise before you speak. 

Exercise is a key factor to success . It sparks creativity, gets the blood flowing, and helps get pent-up energy out.

Exercising before you speak could help tame the nerves and make you feel more relaxed before your speech. 

10. Include a Visual Aid to Help You Remember Talking Points

Visual aids like PowerPoint presentations could be a fantastic addition to your speech.

They can also help provide visual cues for you as the speaker about what you wanted to speak on next so you can feel more prepared and your public speaking anxiety will not creep in. 

Just make sure you’re not reading directly from the slides or the visual aid isn’t too overcrowded or small for your audience.

Keep it simple when it comes to visual aids. Rely on your speaking more than props.

11. Take a Pause

The powerful speech pause might be the most important speaking technique you will ever learn. Not only will it help you overcome your fear of public speaking, but it will help you master your control over the emotional impact of your speeches.

This secret is something that I’ve used for many years as a salesman and as a public speaker.

In music, all of the beauty is contained in the silence between the notes. In speaking, the drama and power of the speech are contained in the silences that you create as you move from point to point.

This is an art that you can learn with practice. As you practice your speech, pause for three to five seconds after asking a question, making one of your main points, or finishing a story.

The pause will give the audience time to ponder your message and connect with you. It will also help you slow down so that you are not speaking too quickly or rambling off-topic.

12. Drink Water and Have It Available

Consider keeping a glass of water next to you while you speak in case you need it.

Sometimes squeezing some lemon into your water helps as well. It helps lubricate your throat. 

Try to avoid sugary beverages before speaking. These can dry out your mouth and make it harder to talk.

Also, remember to drink water throughout your day to stay hydrated and keep your mind sharp and body ready to present … especially if you exercised before!

13. Read More

The stories we consume help shape the stories we share.

To become a better speaker with a proficient vocabulary and a cohesive message, reading more can help you develop your speaking skills.

Take time each day to read inspirational motivational quotes and other material from speaking professionals to help you overcome your fear of public speaking.

Consider reading Eloquence in Public Speaking by Dr. Kenneth McFarland. McFarland, who passed away in 1985, is also known as the “Dean of American Public Speakers.” In his book, he didn’t talk about methodology or technique at all.

His central message, which influenced me very strongly when I began speaking publicly, was that the key to eloquence is the emotional component that the speaker brings to the subject.

To put it another way, the starting point of being an excellent speaker is for you to really care about your subject.

Get to know your audience so you can speak their language, know their pain points, and help solve their problems. Use the motivational and leadership quotes you learn to inject some passion into your speeches and touch people’s emotions.

Remember that your speech is about them, it’s not about you. You are giving a speech to offer valuable information to others and improve their lives.

14. Focus on the Story You’re Telling, Not Your Audience’s Thoughts

When you’ve already done your research on your audience prior to your speech, you know what they want or need to hear from your speech.

Because of this, you should rest well knowing your message will resonate. 

There is always going to be someone in the audience on their phone or yawning. Remember that there will always be people who are bored or tired. None of these audience reactions have anything to do with you personally.

So then just focus on conveying that message or telling that story instead of what you think the audience is thinking while giving your speech.

Some of the most important public speaking help I can give you is to be yourself. Let your personality come through as you are talking to your audience and they will connect with you on a human level — and want to hear more from you. 

So get out of your head, focus on your story and wait for the applause at the end.

15. Relax, Meditate, and Use Positive Affirmations

In addition to breathwork, make sure you find ways to relax throughout your day and during your speech.  

Consider meditating or repeating positive affirmations to yourself to help you focus and build confidence in yourself and your ability to speak confidently in public .

Learn to channel your nervous energy into positive energy. Being nervous is a form of adrenaline. You can use it in a positive way to help give an impassioned presentation during public speaking events.

Practice breathing exercises for anxiety. Shallow breathing makes anxiety worse, deep breathing relaxes your body and brain. Shallow breathing comes from your chest; deep breathing comes from your abdomen.

Find a quiet place to sit or lie down and practice belly breathing. With one hand on your abdomen and the other on your chest, breathe in through your nose and let your belly expand. Breathe out slowly through pursed lips, noting that your chest should be fairly still.

Another popular breathing exercise to calm nerves is the 4-7-8 exercise. Breathe in through your nose for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of seven, then exhale by forcibly pushing your breath out for a count of eight.

Practicing these breathing exercises, meditation, and positive affirmations will reduce your public speaking anxiety as well as your anxiety in everyday life. 

16. Always Seek to Improve

No one ever stops growing. Even if you gave the best speech possible, there are always ways to improve.

Stop focusing on perfection and focus on delivering the best you can at this point in time, then go back, review, and learn to improve for your next amazing speech.

If there is a video of your speech, watch it and make notes on how you can improve on it for next time.

• How do you think you did?
• Are there areas you think you could have improved?
• Did you seem stiff or make any weird facial expressions?
• Did you use a PowerPoint presentation to your advantage? Did it help?
• Did you use “um” often?
• How was your rhythm?

Write everything down and keep practicing to improve. In time, you will banish all of your fears of public speaking.

Turn Your Fear of Public Speaking Into Confidence

Now that you have actionable ways to manage and eliminate your fear of public speaking with these tips for public speaking anxiety, it’s time to get speaking!

And remember, only you are responsible for your success.

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About Brian Tracy — Brian is recognized as the top sales training and personal success authority in the world today. He has authored more than 60 books and has produced more than 500 audio and video learning programs on sales, management, business success and personal development, including worldwide bestseller The Psychology of Achievement. Brian's goal is to help you achieve your personal and business goals faster and easier than you ever imagined. You can follow him on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , Linkedin and Youtube .

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Detailed Guide for Overcoming your Fear of Public Speaking

February 16, 2021 - Dom Barnard

Public speaking is a common form of anxiety and fear. Over 75% of people experience some degree of anxiety or nervousness when it comes to speaking in front of others.

People who have been surveyed commonly rank this fear above spiders, heights and death. So the first thing to remember is that your fear is totally normal.

It can range from slight nervousness to paralyzing fear and panic, with more extreme fear known as glossophobia. Many people with this fear avoid public speaking situations altogether, or they suffer through them with shaking hands and a quavering voice.

But with preparation and experience, you can overcome your fear.

Sections in this article:

Glossophobia: more than a common fear of speaking, what fear does to us during a speech, verbal communication is essential for your career, why do we have this fear.

• Video: Tips to overcome anxiety

8 tips to overcome your fear of public speaking

What to do before and after the event.

• The cure for insecurity is preparation

Speaking Up without Freaking Out  webinar , with Matt Abrahams, Lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.

Most of us have experienced some sort of fear when speaking in public. However, a person with glossophobia is unable to control their nerves and has an extremely strong fear of public speaking, sometimes to the point of a nervous breakdown.

With this can come uncontrollable trembling, sweating, and a racing heartbeat.

This anxiety may not be confined to speaking to large audiences – people suffering with glossophobia may struggle to speak in a meeting, classroom and other smaller group settings.

This can make it very difficult for sufferers to communicate verbally in order to express their ideas and thoughts. As a result, glossophobia may hamper the sufferer’s ability to further his or her academic, social or career opportunities.

• Read more:  What is Glossophobia and How to Overcome it

Being nervous during a public speaking event affects the way we come across to an audience and the quality of our delivery. Nervous speakers tend to  talk too quickly  and generally  ignore the audience , focussing instead on their presentation slides or the floor.

They  talk in a flat voice , with little excitement or vocal pitch variation, and they try to get through the experience without committing to the speech or presentation.

Talk too quickly and in a monotone

Rushing through a talk requires that you talk fast, and talking fast interferes with your breathing. Instead of breathing comfortably, you breathe in a short, shallow manner, or you might even hold your breath.

This gives you the sensation of running out of air and being unable to breathe, a common fear in this situation, and one that greatly increases fear of public speaking.

Talking quickly reduces the chance the audience can enjoy your speech. It creates a barrier between you and them, as they might struggle to understand what you are saying.

Here are some common issues with talking too quickly:

• You won’t be breathing deeply enough to fill your lungs with air
• You’ll sound monotone due to lack of vocal range and air in your lungs
• You’ll sound nervous to the audience
• The audience will struggle to understand what you are saying

Remember, the human voice is in theory capable of paying 24 notes on the musical scale. Most people only use 3 in their everyday speech so if you can incorporate more then you’re already well on your way to becoming an interesting and engaging public speaker.

• Read more about how to  Use your Vocal Toolbox

Ignore the audience and avoid eye contact

Fearful speakers often try to ignore the audience, hoping this will decrease their speech anxiety. For instance, lots of speakers  avoid eye contact  with the audience. This prevents you from noticing any audience reactions. You won’t notice when people seem more interested, or have questions.

When you have no audience contact, you focus on your own thoughts. And if you’re a nervous speaker, your thoughts are virtually guaranteed to be far more negative, and unrealistic, than anything your audience might think or say.

Fight to hide your fear

Finally, efforts to hide your fear create the additional fear of being “found out” as a nervous person. This only adds to the public speaking anxiety you already experience.

It has another negative side effect. After you’ve given a speech, even if it has gone well, you may not feel like it was a success because you think: “If the audience knew how afraid I was, they’d think less of the presentation.

Despite many people fearing speaking in public,  communication skills are essential in the workplace :

83% of human resource directors saying employees who couldn’t develop social skills would not  become high performers .

So, if you manage to overcome your fear of public speaking, this is a brilliant skill for your resume and you’ll be able to accelerate more quickly in your career, as well as be more confident in your personal life.

The core of being a great public speaker lies predominantly in one thing:  confidence .

GMAT study on skills companies demand in new graduate business school hires.

Let’s discuss how this fear comes about and why so many of us fear speaking in public. Understanding the root cause will hopefully help you deal with it better.

In the book, “Confessions of a Public Speaker” by  Scott Berkun , he suggests that our brains identify the following four conditions as extremely bad for survival:

• Standing alone
• In an open territory with no place to hide
• Being without a weapon
• In front of a large crowd who are staring at you

These conditions made sense during the early years of humans. Being alone, or without a weapon for example, could have been very dangerous with wild animals and other fierce tribes nearby.

There conditions happen to all be experienced during public speaking. You’re often alone on a stage, open to the audience who are looking at you, without a weapon and with nowhere to hide (assuming you don’t hide behind your laptop).

So what exactly can you do to gradually overcome the fear of public speaking? Here are key tips that you can apply before, during and after the speech.

Videos: Tips to overcome public speaking anxiety

Speech anxiety tips:

Watch 10 anxiety management tips to use when giving a presentation.  Matt Abrahams  talks us through these tips and explains how best to deal with your fear of public speaking.

Learn more about  practice in virtual reality (VR) .

1. Practice aloud

This is the most important point – you need to practice, over and over again. You can practice in front of friends or family for feedback, join your local  Toastmasters club  or use a virtual reality (VR) app. VR apps are highly effective at tricking the brain into thinking the audience in the app is real.

Methods of practicing aloud:

• Join a local Toastmasters club
• Give a  speech in virtual reality
• Present to a friend or colleague
• Practice with a mirror (ideally full length)
• Practice in a  video conferencing simulator

This is a great way of bridging the gap between practicing in front of a mirror to practicing in front of a group of people (something that you might avoid altogether depending on your fear of public speaking).

Grow your confidence with  interactive practice exercises , on skills such as public speaking, impromptu speaking, giving feedback, and more.

2. Remember why you’re there

Usually you are on stage because people value your expertise and knowledge – or at the very least, whoever has put you there has confidence in your capability. You might be speaking about a recent publication, or a branch of research you successfully tested.

Use this thought to try and relax – people aren’t there to give you a hard time. In fact, most people are probably just grateful it’s you speaking on stage and not them!

To ensure you connect with your audience, you need to plan your speech accordingly. For example,  don’t use jargon or acronyms  if your audience is from a different industry to yours. Keep your language and your slides as simple as possible.

3. Have a script, but don’t memorise it

What are people most afraid of? Forgetting what to say in front of hundreds of people. Even the most  notable public speakers  in history have used scripts, forgotten what they were going to say, and then panicked. The fear of public speaking can consume all we think about.

This might seem really daunting at first and will increase your anxiety levels just thinking about not having the safety of a script. However, remember that when you have a script you tend to either read from it (and therefore lose your connection with the audience) or you memorise it word for word.

The problem with the second method is that if you lose your place, you’ll panic, stumble, and not know what to say next.

A better approach is to make your script into a series of bullet points or, better yet, a list of themes or connecting sentences on a cue card. This will make the speech sounds more authentic and less rehearsed, and you’ll be more likely to show your passion for your topic when speaking from your heart rather than your head.

Method for going from a topic to a speech

Start with a rough outline of the topic you want to talk about. Type up this outline in a conversational style and read it aloud several times to yourself. When certain parts of the speech don’t sound right, correct the outline accordingly.

As you keep rehearsing, try to use your written outline less and less. Highlight certain keywords and phrases you need to mention and add those to cue cards or something similar.

Now start practicing with just the cue cards as you would when speaking at an actual event. On the day of the event, keep the cue cards as backup, maybe next to your laptop, and you’ll be able to speak much more naturally than if you had rehearsed from a script.

4. Don’t rely on technology

If there was something more nerve wracking than forgetting the lines of your speech, it would be for a live  demo to fail . It is a horrible, gut wrenching feeling.

One way to have more confidence and reduce your fear of public speaking on the day is to make sure you have a backup such as a video showing of your presentation or a second method of presentation.

Make sure you’re prepared for technology breaking, including your slides or videos not loading.

For example, if you’re using PowerPoint software and the computer or projector isn’t working, it can be handy to have printed out the presentation for the audience (and yourself if you need it).

Similarly, you should import your presentation offline so that if the internet doesn’t work, you can still present without becoming flustered.

What can go wrong with technology during a speech:

• Embedded videos might not play or have no sound
• The presentation pointer / clicker may stop responding
• Projector doesn’t link to your laptop
• Any live demo may fail (an example being the face recognition for the iPhone X demo)

5. Know your audience

The type of audience you’ll be facing affects your choice of language, humour, opening sentences, length and many more. There are several ways to understand the audience you’re speaking to:

• Research the event using their social media and blog posts
• Learn about the other speakers (if it’s a conference) and the types of presentations they are giving
• Greet audience members when they enter the room and ask them a few questions about their background, expertise, what they expect etc.
• Find out the size of the audience (this may determine the structure of your speech, including where to do the question and answer session, whether to include humour etc.)

Once you understand your audience, you’ll feel more confident about the questions and answers session at the end and that you are delivering a speech the audience actually want to hear.

• How to Analyse your Audience before a Presentation
• Guide to Choosing a Successful Speech Topic

6. Pause and take deep breaths

This simple advice cannot be emphasized enough. When you’re nervous, you breathe rapidly and shallowly. This is telling the audience that you’re not confident. Slow and measured breathing is a sign that you’re in control.

Before you go to the front of the room, concentrate on taking a few slow breaths. Repeat this several times. When you start to speak, remember to pause and breathe after you make a point.

It’s important to remember that there is nothing wrong with a bit of silence during a speech. It can actually be a good thing and bring emphasis to what you’ve just said. Be aware that on stage, pausing for just a few seconds can seem like a very long time – resist the urge to break the silence for at least 3 seconds.

• 10 Effective Ways to use Pauses in your Speech

7. Create backup slides for audience questions

One reason people often experience anxiety before a presentation is the fear that they’ll be asked questions that might be difficult to answer. Don’t get caught off guard.

Think carefully about  potential questions  that might arise and rehearse the answers. Go one step further by creating slides for some potential questions about complex issues.

You can include in your extra slides important information, numbers, stats or even an interesting graph or pie chart that would be helpful to the audience. If such a question arises, it’s okay to say, “I thought I might be asked this question and I’ve got a slide which explains it well…”

8. Focus on the beginning and ending

Your opening sets the tone for your speech and your closing is what you will leave your audience with. You’ll have a few seconds when you start to capture the attention of the audience and prevent them returning to their mobiles.

So you need to make it good. Try starting with an attention grabbing statement, statistic or interesting quote.

• How to Start a Presentation Effectively

The ending brings the presentation to full circle and is when your audience’s attention peaks again. This may be one of the few sections they remember so it’s important you get it right.

• Different Ways to End a Presentation or Speech

Rather than leaving the opening and ending to chance, write and practice them over and over again. What you can do is memorize certain sentences or phrases you think are key to your speech and note down bullet points of other information you want to include in these sections.

Video: How I Overcame My Fear of Public Speaking

In this talk, Danish Dhamani discusses how overcoming your fear of public speaking is key to leading a fulfilling life and unlocking your true potential.

Before the public speaking event

Use these tips to help deal with your fear before an event:

• Greet audience members as they enter the room you’ll be presenting in. Knowing a few of them before you start will ensure you have a few friendly faces you can look at during the presentation
• Do the breathing exercises detailed below this section to slow down your heartrate
• Check that your slides and laptop are working with the projector
• Drink some water to prevent a dry mouth
• Perform some vocal exercises to  warm up your voice before a speech

After the public speaking event

It’s a good idea to reflect on your speech afterwards. Dale Carnegie once said about public speaking, “There are always three speeches, for every one you actually gave. The one you practised, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave.”

For that speech you wish you gave, this is why you need to invest some time to reflect in your performance. Be honest with yourself on three points – what was good about your speech, what didn’t work about your speech and what could have been improved?

If you have trusted friends who were part of your audience, run through these questions with them to obtain a better and more diverse perspective.

Better still, record all your speeches and review them personally. Yes, it can be painful and you will probably cringe while watching yourself on video or listening back to an audio recording. But this process is absolutely necessary for you to become a better speaker and one who is committed to overcoming their fears of speaking.

The cure for insecurity is preparation and experience

The key to overcoming your fear of public speaking is preparation and experience. Solid preparation will leave you feeling more confident in your ability as an excellent public speaker, able to deliver a clear, engaging speech.

Experience will help you become more comfortable with the whole experience and stop you dreading that presentation. You’ll need to get out there and speak in public a few times, so join a local Toastmasters, volunteer to speak at a conference, practice in virtual reality or try any other method of overcoming your fear of public speaking.

• See our top rated  public speaking courses  to help you improve your speaking skills.

Summary of tips

• Prepare by practicing aloud
• Remember why you were chosen to speak
• Don’t memorise a script word for word
• Don’t reply on technology, practice without it if possible
• Know your audience
• Pause and take deep breaths
• Create backup slides for audience questions
• Focus on the beginning and ending of your speech

Note:  If these tips are ineffective despite repeated attempts, you may need to look further into the causes of your anxiety and consider seeking medical advice. See the  NHS website  for more information on treatments.

Understanding And Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety

Most of us might experience what is commonly known as stage fright or speaking anxiety, nervousness and stress experienced around speaking situations in front of audience members. Even for experienced speakers, this can be a normal response to pressurized situations in which we are the focus of attention—such as we might encounter in front of an audience. For some people, though, the fear of public speaking and nervous energy can be much more severe, and can be a sign of an anxiety disorder. 

Speaking anxiety is considered by many to be a common but challenging form of social anxiety disorder that can produce serious symptoms, and can possibly impact an individual’s social life, career, and emotional and physical well-being. 

In this article, we’ll explore what speaking anxiety is, common symptoms of it, and outline several tips for managing it.

Identifying public speaking anxiety: Definition, causes, and symptoms

According to the American Psychological Association,  public speaking anxiety  is the “fear of giving a speech or presentation in public because of the expectation of being negatively evaluated or humiliated by others”. 

Often associated with a lack of self-confidence, the disorder is generally marked by severe worry and nervousness, in addition to several physical symptoms. The fear can be felt by many, whether they are in the middle of a speech or whether they are planning to speak at a future point. They may also generally fear contact with others in informal settings.

Public speaking anxiety can be a common condition, with an with an  estimated prevalence of 15-30%  among the general population.

Public speaking anxiety is considered by many to be a form of social anxiety disorder (SAD). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-V) includes a  performance specifier that allows a SAD diagnosis to relate specifically to anxiety surrounding public speaking or performing. For some extreme forms of this mental health condition, a medical professional may prescribe medication that can help overcome severe symptoms—although for most people this won’t be necessary.

The symptoms of performance-type social anxiety can include:

• Worry or fear surrounding public speaking opportunities or performing, even in front of friendly faces
• Avoiding situations in which public speaking or performing may be necessary
• Shaky voice, especially when one has to speak in public
• Stomach pain or gastrointestinal discomfort
• Rapid breathing

There are several strategies for addressing the symptoms of this and feeling more confident with your oratory skills, whether you need to use them at work, in formal social settings or simply in front of friends. 

The following are several strategies you can employ to address the fear of public speaking and manage your fear when it arises.

While the primary concern for those who experience speaking anxiety might typically be the fear of judgment or embarrassment when speaking publicly, there can be other causes contributing to distress. To figure out how to address this, it can help to understand potential contributing factors—as well as how others may be dealing with it on their own. 

First, it can be helpful to determine where the fear came from in the first place. Here are some  common sources of public speaking anxiety :

• Negative past experiences with public speaking
• Lack of preparedness
• Low self-esteem (this possible cause can cause feelings of overwhelm if one has to give a speech) 
• Inexperience with public speaking 
• Unfamiliar subject matter
• Newness of environment
• Fear of rejection (such as from an audience) 

Practice deep breathing

Public speaking anxiety might often be accompanied by feelings of stress, and also often affects physical factors such as increased speed of heart rate, tension, and rapid breathing. If you’re dealing with speaking anxiety and want to calm your nerves before a public speaking event, it can be helpful to practice deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing is considered by many to be a widely utilized technique  that can help bring your nervous system out of fight-or-flight mode, relax your body, and quiet your mind. Many find it to be one of the most convenient ways to manage symptoms, as many can do it anywhere as needed. 

To practice deep breathing prior to speaking, consider using a method called box breathing: breathe in for a four count, hold for a four-count, breathe out for a four count and hold again for a four count. You can repeat this process three to four times, possibly incorporating it with other relaxation techniques. It can also help to be mindful of your breathing as you’re presenting, which can help you steady your voice and calm your nerves.  

Practice visualization

When we experience nervousness, we can sometimes focus on negative thoughts and worst-case scenarios, despite the reality of the situation. You can work to avoid this by practicing positive visualization—such as imagining friendly faces in the crowd or you acing the main content of your speech. Positive thinking can be an effective technique for managing performance anxiety. 

Visualization is generally regarded as a research-backed method of addressing speaking anxiety that involves imagining the way a successful scenario will progress in detail. 

Having a clear idea of how your presentation will go, even in your mind’s eye, can help you gain confidence and make you feel more comfortable with the task at hand.

Understand your subject matter 

The fear of speaking in front of others can be related to potential embarrassment that may occur if we make a mistake. To reduce the risk of this possibility, it can help to develop a solid understanding of the material you’ll be presenting or performing and visualize success. For example, if you’re presenting your department’s sales numbers at work, familiarizing yourself with the important points and going over them multiple times can help you better retain the information and feel more comfortable as you give the presentation. 

Set yourself up for success

Doing small things to prepare for a speech or performance can make a big difference in helping to alleviate public speaking anxiety. If possible, you may want to familiarize yourself with the location in which you’ll be speaking. It can also help to ensure any technology or other media you’ll be setting up is functional. For example, if you’re using visual aids or a PowerPoint deck, you might make sure it is being projected properly, the computer is charged and that you can easily navigate the slides as you present.

You might even conduct run-throughs of the presentation for your speaking experience. You can practice walking the exact route you’ll take to the podium, setting up any necessary materials, and then presenting the information within the time limit. Knowing how you’ll arrive, what the environment looks like and where exactly you’ll be speaking can set you up for success and help you feel more comfortable in the moment.

Practicing your presentation or performance is thought to be a key factor in reducing your fear of public speaking. You can use your  practice time  to recognize areas in which you may need improvement and those in which you excel as a speaker. 

For example, you might realize that you start rushing through your points instead of taking your time so that your audience can take in the information you’re presenting. Allowing yourself the chance to practice can help you get rid of any filler words that may come out during a presentation and make sure all your points are clear to keep the audience’s interest. Additionally, a practice run can help you to know when it is okay to pause for effect, take some deep breaths, or work effective body language such as points of eye contact into your presentation. 

It may also be helpful to practice speaking in smaller social situations, in front of someone you trust, or even a group of several familiar people. Research suggests that practicing in front of an audience of supportive, friendly faces can improve your performance—and that the larger the mock audience is, the better the potential results may be. 

To do this, you can go through the process exactly like you would if they were real audience. Once you’re done, you can ask them for feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of your presentation. They may have insights you hadn’t considered and tips you can implement prior to presenting, as well as make you feel confident and relaxed about your material. 

Self-care leading up to the moment you’re speaking in public can go a long way in helping you reduce nervousness. Regular physical activity is generally considered to be one proven strategy for reducing social anxiety symptoms . Exercise can help to release stress and boost your mood. If you’re giving a big presentation or speech, it may be helpful to go for a walk or do some mild cardio in the morning. 

Additionally, eating a healthy diet and drinking enough water can also help promote a sense of well-being and calm. You may choose to be mindful of your consumption of caffeinated beverages, as caffeine may worsen anxiety. 

How online therapy can help

If you experience anxiety when you need to speak in front of other people and want additional support for your communication apprehension, it can help to talk to a licensed mental health professional. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a therapist can work with you to find effective ways to manage public speaking anxiety and feel more confident performing in front of others.

Is Online Therapy Effective?

Studies suggest that online therapy can help individuals who experience anxiety related to presenting or performing in public. In a study of 127 participants with social anxiety disorder, researchers found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in treating the fear of public speaking , with positive outcomes that were sustained for a year post-treatment. The study also noted the increased convenience that can often be experienced by those who use online therapy platforms. 

Online therapy is regarded by many as a flexible and comfortable way of connecting with a licensed therapist to work through symptoms of social anxiety disorder or related mental disorders. With online therapy through  BetterHelp , you can participate in therapy remotely, which can be helpful if speaking anxiety makes connecting in person less desirable. 

BetterHelp works with thousands of mental health professionals—who have a variety of specialties—so you may be able to work with someone who can address your specific concerns about social anxiety.

Therapist reviews

“I had the pleasure of working with Ann for a few months, and she helped me so much with managing my social anxiety. She was always so positive and encouraging and helped me see all the good things about myself, which helped my self-confidence so much. I've been using all the tools and wisdom she gave me and have been able to manage my anxiety better now than ever before. Thank you Ann for helping me feel better!”

Brian has helped me immensely in the 5 months since I joined BetterHelp. I have noticed a change in my attitude, confidence, and communication skills as a result of our sessions. I feel like he is constantly giving me the tools I need to improve my overall well-being and personal contentment.”

If you are experiencing performance-type social anxiety disorder or feel nervous about public speaking, you may consider trying some of the tips detailed above—such as practicing with someone you trust, incorporating deep breathing techniques and visualizing positive thoughts and outcomes. 

If you’re considering seeking additional support with social anxiety disorder, online therapy can help. With the right support, you can work through anxiety symptoms, further develop your oratory skills and feel more confidence speaking in a variety of forums.  

Studies suggest that online therapy can help individuals who experience nervousness related to presenting or speaking in public. In a study of 127 participants with social anxiety disorder, researchers found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in treating the fear of public speaking , with positive outcomes that were sustained for a year post-treatment. The study also noted the increased convenience that can often be experienced by those who use online therapy platforms.

• How To Manage Travel Anxiety Medically reviewed by Paige Henry , LMSW, J.D.
• The Correlation Between Certain Mental Disorders Medically reviewed by Paige Henry , LMSW, J.D.
• Relationships and Relations

How to Overcome Fear of Public Speaking and Give a Great Presentation

T hat Dilbert comic is pretty accurate. Gallup says 40% of people fear public speaking — and some people fear it more than death.

Jerry Seinfeld interpreted this as meaning that at a funeral, more people would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy.

Via Nerve: Poise Under Pressure, Serenity Under Stress, and the Brave New Science of Fear and Cool :

A wide variety of studies have crowned fear of public speaking – or glossophobia, for sticklers – as our king of all phobias; according to a 2001 Gallup poll, more than 40% of Americans confess to a dread of appearing before spectators. (In some surveys, fear of public speaking even outranks fear of death, a fact that inspired Jerry Seinfeld’s famous observation that at a funeral, this means the average person would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy.)

How do you get over public speaking fear?

I’ve given great talks at MIT, UCLA, the University of Pennsylvania and other places. Here are 6 tips from experts and research to help you do the same.

1) You’re Not Perfect – And That’s Normal

In Scott Berkun’s excellent Confessions of a Public Speaker he points out that anytime we talk it’s a bit of a mess.

Even the unedited speeches of great orators like Martin Luther King and Churchill have numerous errors.

People know this and are naturally forgiving.

Berkun references Michael Erard’s book Um :

They [mistakes] occur on average once every ten words…. If people say an average of 15,000 words each day, that’s about 1,500 verbal blunders a day. Next time you say something, listen to yourself carefully. You st-st-stutter; you forget the words, you swotch the sounds (and when you type, you reverse the lttres — and prhps omt thm too). The bulk of these go unnoticed or brushed aside , but they’re all fascinating, as much as for why they’re ignored as why they’re noticed.

Take your errors in stride. The audience will look to you to decide how serious a blunder is and if you’re cool, they probably will be too.

Via Confessions of a Public Speaker :

Know that your response to a mistake defines the audience’s response. If I respond to spilling water on my pants as if it were the sinking of the Titanic, the audience will see it, and me, as a tragedy. But if I’m cool, or better yet, find it funny, the audience will do the same.

2) How To Prepare

Obviously you have to prepare the material. But how can you prepare for the fear ?

Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking , and an introvert herself, is now a professional public speaker.

How did she overcome public speaking fear?

She practiced in front of small, supportive groups to desensitize herself.

From my interview with Susan :

I really had to desensitize myself to my fears of public speaking. I did that by practicing in very small, very supportive and very low-speed environments where it didn’t matter if I screwed up. And eventually you get used to the strange feeling of being looked at, which used to make me feel horrified. You become accustomed to it over time and your fear dissipates.

3) Know The First Minutes Cold

The Art of Public Speaking makes an excellent point: work especially hard practicing your intro .

Not just because it grabs the audience and sets the tone, but research shows having the beginning down cold can help with jitters.

Anxiety levels drop after a few minutes so having the intro well-rehearsed gets you through the toughest part of the talk.

Via The Art of Public Speaking :

4) Reduce Stress Ahead Of Time

Scott Berkun also has excellent tips for making sure things go well — which makes sure you don’t have to worry about things going well.

5) What To Do If You Do Screw Up

Scott Berkun recommends looking for a face in the crowd that seems supportive.

That’s your emotional base. Look to that person for support to keep you moving forward and build from there.

If all else fails — you know the audience hates you and your point of view — seek out the person who hates you the least… If you are going to get a first smile, a nod of support, or a round of applause, it’s going to come from him. Once you find that one person, use him as your base. Don’t ignore everyone else, but know where to look for support.

6) Cheat: Make Friends Ahead of Time

Yes, there’s a way to cheat your way through public speaking fear.

Berkun recommends talking to a few audience members before the presentation, and referencing them by name during the talk.

This has three benefits:

• Now the audience members aren’t all strangers to you.
• Those people feel special and engaged when you mention them.
• The rest of the audience feels like you’re part of the group.

Request the names of three people to interview who are representative of the crowd you will speak to. See if your fears are real or imagined. Then, when giving your talk, make sure to mention, “Here are the three top complaints I heard from my research with Tyler, Marla, and Cornelius.” Including the audience in your talk will score you tons of points.

What sums up the thrust of all six tips?

Spend a lot of time preparing and make every effort to connect with your audience personally.

If you forget everything else, keep that in mind and you’ll still see dramatic improvements in your ability.

Need more help?

• Here’s more on how to give a great presentation .
• Here’s how to boost confidence and be fearless .

Join 45K+ readers. Get a free weekly update via email here .

Related posts:

Presentation Techniques: 6 Secrets To Giving Amazing Presentations

The top FBI hostage negotiator teaches you the 5 secrets to getting what you want

Susan Cain Interview: 5 Things You Need To Know About Introverts

This piece originally appeared on Barking Up the Wrong Tree .

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5 Ways to Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking

• Mark Bonchek
• Mandy Gonzalez

Play out the toughest scenarios in advance.

We all want to be good public speakers. But for many of us, fear inevitably gets in the way. The good news is you don’t have to overcome your fear in order to be a great public speaker; it never goes away entirely. Instead, the goal is to have  less fear. You can dial down your fear by being prepared. This means knowing the material so well that you don’t have to think about it. Checklists are helpful to make sure you have all the details covered. Enlist friends to help review your material, ask tough follow-up questions, or act like an indifferent audience. Play out the toughest scenarios in advance, so you won’t have any surprises when it’s showtime. Then you can focus on being fully present in order to connect with your audience in an authentic way.

We all want to be fearless public speakers. We dream of confidently striding onto the stage to give a speech or presentation, breaking the ice with the perfect joke, captivating the audience with compelling stories, handling the most difficult questions with ease, and exiting to cheers and applause.

• Mark Bonchek  is the Founder and CEO (Chief Epiphany Officer) of Shift Thinking . He works with leaders and organizations to update their thinking for a digital age. Sign up for the Shift newsletter  and follow Mark on Twitter at  @MarkBonchek .
• Mandy Gonzalez can be seen on the stage, TV, and film, and is currently starring on Broadway as Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton . She just released her debut album Fearless and is the founder of the #FearlessSquad , a movement for inclusion and positivity in social media.

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How to Write a Speech on Fear

Erin schreiner.

Nearly everyone has experienced that creepy, crawly, something-just-isn't-right feeling associated with fear. For some, fear is induced by a dark house on a stormy night; for others, it's the sight of a spider or bee, or a supernatural being, such as a zombie. As you prepare to give your next speech, consider making this universal feeling your topic of choice. By crafting a speech on the topic of fear, you can encourage your audience to think back on times when they have felt like their lives were on the line, creating unity among your listeners through the arousal of a common emotion.

Brainstorm about fear. Sit down with a piece of paper, pencil and timer. Set the timer for 10 minutes, and start writing. Keep your hand moving the entire time, writing down anything that comes into your mind when you hear the word “fear.”

Select a message. After your 10 minutes have passed, look back over what you wrote and circle or star the ideas you think are the strongest. On the bottom of your paper, or on the back, write down an overall message you could convey about fear. For example, if you have listed an array of things that scare you but that you don't think would scare others, your theme may be “fear is a personal thing.”

Choose supports. Below your selected message, list three to four things you could say to support your message. For example, if you are trying to prove that fear unites people, you could jot down, among other things, that people huddle together at haunted houses when caught off-guard by scary sights.

Open with an engaging lead. Aim to capture your listeners' attention from the start by beginning your speech with a quote about fear, a fear-inducing scary story or a personal account of a time in which you felt seriously afraid.

Mix research and personal experience. Spend some time studying the science behind fear to make your speech seem better prepared. By mixing these facts with fear-related things you personally have experienced, you can craft a compelling and attention-keeping speech.

Add some quotations, peppering in words that others have said about fear. By doing so, you can ensure that your speech isn't just your perspective, but also includes others' perceptions of the topic.

Craft a strong closing. Drive the points you have made regarding fear home to your listeners by writing a strong conclusion in which you restate your main ideas and leave your listeners with something to think about. For example, if you discussed the seemingly paradoxical concept of people wanting to be scared and, as a result, enjoying things like scary movies, end your speech by referring back to the main ideas you mentioned and encouraging them to think about these things when they next buy a ticket to a horror flick.

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About the Author

Erin Schreiner is a freelance writer and teacher who holds a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University. She has been actively freelancing since 2008. Schreiner previously worked for a London-based freelance firm. Her work appears on eHow, Trails.com and RedEnvelope. She currently teaches writing to middle school students in Ohio and works on her writing craft regularly.

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10 Causes of Speech Anxiety that Create Fear of Public Speaking

Do you suffer from fear of public speaking? Here are 10 causes of speech anxiety and powerful tips about how to speak with confidence!

Want an attention-grabber the next time you give a speech? How about this: speech anxiety ranks higher than death as the fear people mention most often!

How's that for a widespread form of social anxiety?

Speech anxiety limiting your career? Learn how to command the stage with my book Fearless Speaking , named One of 100 Best Confidence Books Of All Time.  On  Amazon .

The Prevalence of Fear of Public Speaking

To be fair:  heights, insects, and deep water  also   rank above death in the survey that's still cited above any other. It's from  The Book of Lists,   which in 1977 reproduced a 1973 survey by Bruskin Associates.* Here's the full ranking of the "14 worst human fears": 1. Speaking before a group 2. Heights 3. Insects and Bugs 4. Financial Problems 5. Deep Water. 6. Sickness 7. Death 8. Flying 9.Loneliness 10. Dogs 11. Driving in a Car 12. Darkness 13. Elevators. 14. Escalators.

To bring that up to date to our 21 st century, a recent post from a “knowledge, awareness, and self-improvement” site finds fear of public speaking occupying the #3 slot. In this list, a dread of loneliness and death edge out our social phobia. But fear of speaking reliably remains as one of our great waking nightmares. [1]  

So if you fear speaking in public more than riding an escalator, you're certainly not alone. Speech jitters still ranks high the world over on lists of things people would rather not do. But what specifically causes this type of social anxiety?

Need to relax before speaking? Discover how in my  essential  cheat sheet for speakers ,  "How to Calm Your Nerves before Speaking. " It works in only 5 minutes!

How to Overcome Stage Fright and Speech Anxiety

As the founder and president of   The Genard Method   in Boston, I've spent the past 18 years helping professionals eliminate their stage fright through our Fearless Speaking Program . In the video below, I explain this powerful coaching course for overcoming fear of speaking: 

Looking for ways to conquer stage fright? You'll find 50 of them in my book  Fearless Speaking . Eliminate your fear in as little as 12 days! Download a free chapter here .  

The Top 10 Reasons You Have Stage Fright

Here's what you need to know to start your journey to greater confidence and enjoyment of public speaking. These are the ten biggest reasons you have this fear, and my tips on how you can overcome it . . . and basically get your life back!

• Self-consciousness in front of large groups.  This is the most frequently named reason for performance anxiety. Speech coaches often hear: "I'm fine talking to small groups, but when it's a large audience I get really anxious." Two strategies will help: (1) Remember that the people in a big audience are the same ones you talk to individually, and (2) Concentrate on just talking to them, not "presenting". You'll be at your best.
• Fear of appearing nervous . Do you fear that you'll look  fearful? Many speakers do. It's easy, then, to believe that if the audience sees those nerves, they'll think you don't know your topic. But of course the two aren't linked. When you see that a speaker is nervous, don't you sympathize, rather than making a judgment on that person's professionalism? If anything, your audience will extend you sympathy not resistance.
• Concern that others are judging you.  The tough-love message here is that people really don't care about you. They're in the audience to get something out of your lecture, presentation, or speech. They want their time to be well spent. Watching a speaker fail is embarrassing for everyone. So the audience is actually pulling for you!
•   Past failures.   Public speaking anxiety is often learned behavior. That is, at some point in the past you failed, and the seed of self-doubt was planted. But if you know your stuff and are prepared  this time , there's no reason for things to go south like they did in the long ago. Not unless you insist that will happen, and believe it. Plan to succeed instead.
•   Poor or insufficient preparation.   See #4 above. If you haven't done your homework (including knowing your audience), there's no reason you should succeed. Blame nobody but yourself. Nothing undermines public speaking confidence like being unprepared. But nothing gives you as much confidence as being   ready. Your choice.

Do you know how to hook your audience's attention? Get the guide to great openings! Grab listeners as soon as you start speaking with my e-book   "How to Start a Speech."  

•   Narcissism.   This is the toughest love message I give to clients with stage fright. Indulging in extreme self-consciousness while speaking is narcissistic. How can you influence others if you're totally wrapped up in yourself? You can't. So turn that bright spotlight around and "illuminate" your listeners. You don't matter. They do.
•   Dissatisfaction with your abilities.   Okay, this is a legitimate concern. But it's also one of the easiest of my Top 10 causes to remedy. You   should   feel dissatisfied if your speaking skills are below par. But dissatisfaction can be an excellent spur. Get the speech training you've been thinking about. Just knowing you have first-rate skills can provide you with a truckload of confidence. It's also much more likely to make you eager to speak.
•   Discomfort with your own body.  Why is it that we're all at ease physically with friends, but self-conscious and awkward in front of an audience? If that's you, read  the tip above about having a conversation with listeners. That should help you relax into your body. Also, pay attention to how you stand, sit, gesture, and move when you're in a comfortable environment. Then recreate that natural movement with larger audiences. Here are   5 secrets of powerful body language for effective public speaking . 
•   Poor breathing habits.   Unless you've been trained as an actor or singer, you're probably  unaware of how to breathe for speech. Public speaking requires more air than "vegetative breathing." Also, you need to control your exhalation to sustain sound through the end of your idea. Diaphragmatic breathing is the way to do all of this. It's also great for calming your galloping heart. 
•   Comparing yourself to others.   Don't do it! Your job is never to be an "excellent" speaker. It's to be interesting when you discuss your topic or passion. That's it. The really good news is that no one in the entire universe can do that as well as you, because you're the person to tell us about it. Truly, you're the one we came to hear. 

Do you read mysteries or supernatural suspense ? If you do, you'll love Dr. William Scarlet, Scotland Yard police surgeon and psychic. Read Book #1 in the thriller series, Red Season !

You should follow me on Twitter   here .

Tags: public speaking anxiety , stage fright , conquer your fear of public speaking , fear of public speaking , overcoming fear of public speaking , how to give a speech , eliminate stage fright , top 10 causes of speech anxiety , conquer stage fright , The Genard Method , Dr. Gary Genard , fearless speaking , fearless presentations , how to overcome fear of public speaking , how to banish speech anxiety , eliminate fear of public speaking , overcoming nervousness , overcome stage fright , how to conquer public speaking fear , eliminating fear of public speaking , speak for leadership

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How to Conquer the Fear of Public Speaking

Are you ready for a standing ovation.

Posted November 28, 2017 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

• What Is Fear?
• Find a therapist to combat fear and anxiety

Fear of public speaking is very common, with almost 1 in 4 people reporting being anxious when presenting ideas and information in front of an audience. Being a good public speaker is an essential skill that can help you advance your career , grow your business, and form strong relationships.

Researchers have identified many reasons why we are afraid of public speaking , which you can read more about here . It seems that the way we feel, think, and act with respect to having to speak in public can raise or lower the amount of fear we experience significantly.

While fear teaches you to protect yourself in risky situations, letting that fear stand between you and your audience could prevent you from sharing inspiring ideas, speaking about important work, and presenting interesting solutions to problems that affect many people. In short, it’s everyone’s loss.

What can we do about it?

The factors that cause fear of public speaking are also the factors that researchers have targeted to help people overcome it. Several methods exist for conquering the fear of public speaking. Some of them address the physiological aspect of fear, others focus on the cognitive aspects, and a few focus on the behavioral components that contribute to higher levels of fear and anxiety around public speaking. Based on that research, here is where to start:

1. Learn how to put your body in a calm state.

A variety of relaxation techniques can reduce the increased physiological activity that the body produces automatically when confronted with an event or situation that causes fear. In the case of public speaking, the stimulus that causes fear can range from the actual speaking event itself to the mere thought of having to speak in public. Learning to relax while thinking about, preparing for, or giving an oral presentation reduces the experience of fear and prevents it from interfering with performance. Relaxation techniques involve learning to control your breathing, to lower your heart rate, and to lessen the tension in your muscles. These techniques work best when paired with gradual exposure to public speaking. For example, you begin applying these techniques first when you agree to speak, then as you prepare your speech, and eventually when you present it. You could also gradually increase the scale of the events as you learn how to manage your anxiety through relaxation, starting with very small audiences and moving up in numbers bit by bit. You could also start with speeches that are easier to prepare for or less scary to deliver to master the relaxation techniques, and then continue to use them as you enter speaking situations where the stakes are increasingly higher. Relaxation is an effective technique, with quick, but not necessarily long-lasting results.

2. Challenge your beliefs about public speaking.

Another way to conquer the fear of public speaking is to challenge your beliefs about your ability to prepare and deliver an effective and impactful speech. Cognitive reframing approaches target your negative self-statements ( I am not a good speaker; audiences find me boring ), or any irrational beliefs about public speaking ( People can see how anxious I am on stage ). Irrational, in this case, means that your beliefs are not supported by the facts or by your experience. Cognitive reframing helps you challenge negative statements and beliefs and replace them with favorable, supportive, and proactive statements. It is important to note that these techniques are not intended to simply replace negative thinking with vapid and meaningless statements. They challenge you to think more pragmatically and intentionally. In essence, you are teaching yourself to see public speaking as a non-threatening event that you can learn to handle and to see yourself as a confident speaker-in-progress.

3. Shift your focus from performance to communication.

A different cognitive approach includes shifting your perspective from being evaluated to being of value. You train yourself to see public speaking as a situation where you are communicating with people something that you think they will benefit from, instead of thinking of it as a situation where you will be tested and judged. That shift in perspective relieves you of the worry of how you will come across and focuses you on how to best get your message across.

4. Prepare, prepare, prepare.

A public speaking appearance is only the culmination of a thorough process of preparing and rehearsing your presentation. The more prepared you are, the less worried you will be about looking nervous, forgetting your lines, or losing your train of thought. Think about the amount of work actors put into delivering entire scripts in front of audiences. Approaching public speaking the same way actors approach performing will help you shift your focus from worrying to preparing, and the more prepared you are, the more focused on your message and the less distracted by your fear you will be. In this TEDx talk , Amy and Michael Port (author of Steal the Show ) encourage people to see themselves as performers and apply techniques similar to those that actors use “to create a reality of their choosing” in high-stakes situations that involve sharing ideas and information with other people. Such an approach allows you to accomplish your goal and at the same time maintain your authenticity . Remember, being underprepared is always more nerve-wracking than being overprepared.

5. Seek out more opportunities to speak.

Whether you are working on your body responses to fear, your view of yourself as a speaker, or your general approach to public speaking, the more experience you get, the more confidence you'll gain. Finding and creating opportunities to speak gives you the chance to practice what you have learned and get better at it. In addition, it helps you learn how to use your own experiences to continue improving your presentation skills. Essentially, you learn from what didn’t work well, instead of punishing yourself for it. And the more often you speak, the more you realize that what makes a good speaker is a combination of the noble intention to inform or inspire an audience, a positive mindset, and a lot of prep work.

6. Ask for help.

While you can do a lot to overcome the fear of public speaking on your own, there are many options available for a little extra help. Getting help can, in many cases, be a more effective way of achieving results than doing it alone. There are several tested interventions available to help overcome the fear of public speaking and many specialized professionals who deliver them . In addition to asking professionals for help, there are consumer-organized groups, like Toastmasters , which also provide opportunities for building your skills in a non-threatening and non-committal environment. Many people join such groups specifically to overcome their fear of public speaking.

The bottom line is that if something scares you, you will avoid it, and if you avoid it, you will not get enough practice, and when you don’t get enough practice, you will not get better at it, and if you are not getting better at it, you will continue to be afraid of it. This cycle of fear can go on and on. But it doesn’t have to. With the number of options available, it is up to you to decide when and how to break this cycle of fear of public speaking.

LinkedIn Image Credit: fizkes/Shutterstock

A Racing Heart, Rattling Knees, and Ruminative Thoughts: Defining, Explaining, and Treating Public Speaking Anxiety Graham D. Bodie, Louisiana State University

Theo Tsaousides, Ph.D. is a neuropsychologist, assistant professor, and author of the book Brainblocks: Overcoming the Seven Hidden Barriers to Success .

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Speech Anxiety

Most people experience some level of speech anxiety when they have to speak in front of a group; in fact, public speaking is many people’s greatest fear. Speech anxiety can range from a slight feeling of “nerves” to a nearly incapacitating fear. Some of the most common symptoms of speech anxiety are: shaking, sweating, butterflies in the stomach, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, and squeaky voice. Although it is often impossible to completely eliminate speech anxiety there are a variety of ways to deal with it and even make it work to your advantage.

About Speech Anxiety

Experiencing speech anxiety is normal. Nearly everyone gets nervous when they have to give a speech or a presentation, even experienced speakers. The speakers that look relaxed and confident have simply learned how to handle their anxiety and use it to enhance their performance.

Most of your anxiety is not visible to the audience. You may feel like you are shaking uncontrollably but people in the audience probably cannot even tell. Gain confidence from the fact that you are the only one who knows how nervous you are.

The audience wants you to succeed. Novice speakers commonly feel that the people in the audience are extremely critical and want them to fail. This is very rarely the case. Think about situations where you have been an audience member. Did you want the speaker to fail? Probably not, in fact we are usually quite supportive of speakers and may even feel bad for them if they stumble over a word or lose their train of thought. Most audiences you will address as a student are rooting for you.

Anxiety decreases as a speech progresses. Speech anxiety is usually worst right before a speech and at the beginning of the speech. Most people find that once they get through the introduction their anxiety begins to decrease and confidence increases.

Tips for Dealing with Speech Anxiety

Before the speech . . ..

Identify the cause of your nervousness. Write down the reasons why you are nervous to give a speech or presentation. If you come up with something like, “I’m afraid I’ll look stupid” dig a little deeper. What would make you look stupid? You may find that you are really afraid that you will forget what you wanted to say. This will help you pinpoint specific things to work on. If you are afraid you will forget what you wanted to say then spending extra time practicing your speech should reduce that anxiety.

Choose topics that you are interested in. We do not always get to choose topics that we speak about. If you are able to choose your topic pick one that interests you. It is much easier to spend time researching and preparing a presentation on a topic that you care about than one you have no interest in. You will also be more inclined to display enthusiasm about a topic that you enjoy.

Prepare your speech early and thoroughly. Having to prepare a speech at the last minute will only increase your anxiety. After you have prepared your speech PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!! Practice delivering your speech at least 7 to 10 times before your actual presentation. Be sure that you know the organization of your main points to avoid losing your place. Watch yourself in the mirror while you deliver your speech, this will allow you to see your gestures and body language and practice making eye contact. You can also give your speech to friends or family members and ask them for feedback. Audio or videotaping your speech are other ways to evaluate and improve your delivery. If you are given a time limit for your presentation be sure to use a stopwatch as you give your speech. Time each practice run and make changes to ensure that you will be able to stay within your allotted time. Keep in mind that most of us speak more quickly when we are in front of a real audience.

Know your topic. If you have researched the topic thoroughly you will be certain that you are presenting accurate information and you will be able to answer questions that the audience may ask. These things will greatly increase your confidence.

Be aware of the speech situation. One of the hardest things for a speaker to deal with is a surprise. While we cannot completely avoid surprises we can minimize them. Make sure that you are aware of all aspects of the speech situation ahead of time. Know your time limit, the size of your audience, the make-up of your audience (see audience analysis), what equipment you will have available to you (computer, overhead, podium, easel, etc.), and any other details that may affect your presentation. Also, if you are using any type of technology in your speech (i.e. a PowerPoint presentation) be sure that you have a back-up plan (see Visual Aids and Technology). Technology can be a wonderful tool but it can also be unpredictable.

Set realistic expectations. No one is perfect. Public speaking is difficult to master even seasoned speakers make mistakes. Instead of telling yourself that you have to deliver your speech flawlessly, think realistic things like, “If I lose my place I will calmly scan my notes and then continue my speech” or “Small mistakes aren’t going to ruin my speech.”

Replace negative thoughts with positive ones and visualize success. Thinking negative thoughts increases anxiety. When a negative thought comes to mind try to immediately replace it with positive thoughts. For example, if you think, “I’m going to forget what to say and just stand there,” replace that with thoughts like, “I’ve done a great deal of research and I know this topic well” and “I have practiced my speech many times and I’m going to deliver it just like I practiced.” Other performers such as athletes and musicians have found that visualization can be a powerful tool to improve performance. See yourself delivering the speech with confidence and successfully conveying your message.

Continue gaining experience. One of the best ways to combat speech anxiety is to gain speaking experience. Take any opportunity that you have to speak in public. Speak in your classes or volunteer to give presentations for groups you are involved in - anything that gives you a chance to hone your speaking skills.

On the day of the speech . . .

Exercise. Exercising on the day of a speech can help reduce anxiety and stress.

Use relaxation techniques. Simple relaxation techniques lessen anxiety and allow them to focus on the task at hand. Some of the most common relaxation techniques are: taking deep breaths, tightening and then relaxing your muscles, and visualizing a peaceful scene.

Accept fear and use it. Accept the fact that you are nervous (remember it’s normal to experience speech anxiety) and use that nervous energy to enhance your delivery. Use the extra adrenaline that you get from fear to invigorate your gestures and enthusiasm about your topic. Remember, even the best speakers get nervous, but they use it to their benefit.

Wear clothes that you feel confident in. Most of us have a few outfits that we feel particularly comfortable and confident in. These are good things to wear when you present a speech. If you feel good about how you look standing in front of your audience, you can put all of your focus on your message. You do not want to distract your audience or yourself by adjusting your clothes or hair during your speech.

Act confident and do not profess your anxiety to the audience. Remember that your nervousness is usually invisible to your audience. If you act confident your audience will assume that you are. This can become a positive circular process: the audience gives you the respect of a competent speaker, you receive positive feedback that gives you more confidence in your ability, and the audience gives you more respect. A common mistake that novice speakers make is telling the audience that they are nervous. This does not lessen your anxiety and it tends to make your audience uncomfortable since they want you to succeed. Acting confident is a much more effective strategy.

Find friendly faces in the crowd. While you are speaking find one or two people in the audience that are giving you positive feedback (nodding in agreement, smiling when appropriate, etc.). When you feel nervous make eye contact with those people. Their friendly faces will give you encouragement.

Find ways to hide your anxiety. If your mouth goes dry, be sure to bring a glass of water with you when you speak. If you sweat excessively, wear clothes that will not allow your audience to detect it. If your hands shake, use gestures that mask the shaking.

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Speech on Fear

• Updated on  
• May 3, 2023

ASL or Assessment of Speaking and Listening is an integral part of the CBSE Class IX and X curriculum. It is a part of the continuous and comprehensive evaluation system under CBSE . Students are usually asked to choose a topic they wish to speak on and then prepare a speech on it within a stipulated time period. In this blog, we have curated samples of speech on fear, for ASL and public speaking competitions.

This Blog Includes:

Speaking task (2-3 minutes) of speech on fear, speaking task (5 to 10 minutes) of speech on fear, speech on fear pdf.

During this task, students are allocated a topic on the spot and they must speak on it for 2-3 minutes.

Good morning everyone. My name is Vatsal Sharma, and I am going to present before you a  speech on Fear. So, let’s talk about the actual connotation of the word “fear”. What is fear? Fear can be defined as a complicated emotion one feels in response to certain stimuli. Fear might be a response to either an external or an internal stimulus. It might be triggered on the rarest of occasions and under the rarest of circumstances. If we take an example, it might feel like my heart is in my throat, and I lose my ability to focus on anything else without any conscious choice. When fear strikes, you lose control of everything happening around you, and everyone else around you disappears. Fear is generally perceived as a negative emotion. Still, it can also be positive and healthy as it serves as a survival instinct helping humans recognise situations that can be harmful or dangerous.

Must Read: Speech Topics

If the speech is for 5 to 10 minutes, refer to the following sample speech on fear.

Good morning to all. My name is Ashita Kumar, and today I will present before you a relevant topic in today’s time – a speech on fear. Through this speech, I would try my best to explain this topic. Fear, the quintessential human emotion, is an unavoidable human emotion that every human experiences at some point. Although the extent or range of fear may vary from person to person, the emotion is the same. This particular emotion is capable of causing psychological changes, which ultimately lead to behavioural changes in a person. Fear might be a response to either an external or an internal stimulus. It might be triggered on the rarest of occasions and under the rarest of circumstances occurring in the present or an anticipated future threat that is a risk to oneself. The response to fear generally arises through recognising danger, leading to the confrontation of the situation or escaping the fear or avoiding the. Fear can be classified into two types, innate fears and identity fears. Innate fears are the fears humans are born with, and every individual has them on some level. This fear also serves as a kind of survival instinct. Identity fear is the type of fear that humans develop with age. Any speech on fear is incomplete without the physical effects it has on our bodies. Although fear is an emotion experienced in the mind, it triggers a strong physical reaction in one’s body. As soon as one’s body recognizes fear, the brain starts working, alerting the nervous system, which sets the body’s response to fear into motion. As a result of fear, the human brain releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which increase blood pressure, and adrenaline. As a result, one may start breathing faster, and the direction of blood flow in the body changes – blood flows away from the heart into the limbs. Thank you for listening. I hope this speech was insightful and informative.

Must Read: Speech on Indian Education System

Start a fear speech with an engaging and interesting lead.

Speech on fear is all about accepting the emotion but not letting it take over our lives.

Fear is an important emotion since it readies you for what is to come.

With this, we come to the end of our blog on Speech on Fear. If you are studying for your exams and need quick notes for revision, check out other study blogs on Leverage Edu and subscribe to our newsletter to get regular updates. Follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn .

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How to Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking

• The Speaker Lab
• May 2, 2024

Table of Contents

Ever felt your heart racing just before a presentation? If so, you’re not alone. This jittery sensation is the fear of public speaking , and it can feel both overwhelming and insurmountable. Maybe you’ve already wondered: Is there any way to overcome this fear of public speaking?

As a matter of fact, there is, and we promise this isn’t some far-off dream. In fact, that’s why we’re here: to help you overcome your fear of public speaking. From understanding its roots to exploring how it affects our lives; from practical strategies for overcoming it to professional help available and even the role technology plays in all this—we’ve got you covered.

So stick around! There’s plenty ahead that will help turn your butterflies into fearless flight.

Understanding the Fear of Public Speaking

The fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, is a phobia that affects many people.

At the root of this fear is our primal instinct to avoid rejection or humiliation from others. This might seem like an outdated response in today’s world where physical danger isn’t usually present when we give a speech at work or make a toast at a wedding. Yet, for some reason, our brain still sees it as threatening and responds accordingly by releasing adrenaline into our system.

Psychology Today explains how adrenaline can cause us to lose situational awareness, shutting down our peripheral vision and increasing our heartrate. These symptoms are all signs that your body is preparing for “fight or flight.” So even though you’re just standing on stage with nothing more than words to defend yourself with, your body reacts as if facing real danger.

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Symptoms of Glossophobia

Categorized as a social phobia, glossophobia shares a lot of symptoms associated with other social anxiety disorders. Aside from the physiological responses mentioned earlier—elevated heartbeat and loss of peripheral vision—other symptoms associated with glossophobia include:

• Nauseous feeling before or during speeches,
• Increased blood pressure,
• Trembling voice,
• Dry mouth, and
• Panic attacks in severe cases.

Prevalence and Causes of Glossophobia

According to Psychology Today , approximately 25% of Americans admit they’re afraid of public speaking. That’s one in four people who experience this fear to some degree.

But what exactly causes a person to become nervous about speaking publicly? Research has identified four contributing factors, namely,

• A predisposal to anxiety,
• Negative thoughts (especially about oneself),
• Situational challenges (such as status differences or an unfamiliar audience), and
• Perceived experience and skill.

Interestingly enough, these four contributing factors suggest that most fears aren’t based on personal experiences. In fact, it’s possible that glossophobia is often learned from hearing about others’ bad experiences or watching distressing events on TV or social media. As a result, understanding what causes glossophobia can be the first step towards overcoming it and becoming a confident speaker.

Being scared of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, is a pretty common phobia. It’s often sparked by our natural desire to steer clear of rejection. This fear can lead to physical signs like your heart beating faster or sweating, and it can also mess with your emotions. What’s interesting though is that this fear doesn’t always come from something you’ve gone through yourself—sometimes we pick it up from other people’s experiences or things we see in the media. Getting why these fears happen under your belt is the starting point for kicking glossophobia to the curb.

How Fear of Public Speaking Impacts You Professionally

In the professional world, being able to communicate effectively is often key to advancement. If presentations make you quake with fear instead of excitement about showcasing your skills and ideas, it’s likely that promotions will pass you by. Plus, this constant state of stress can wreak havoc on your self-confidence levels over time.

A reluctance to take center stage also means less visibility within an organization which may translate into slower career progression compared with peers who are more comfortable expressing their thoughts publicly.

Even financially speaking, glossophobia can be a liability. Believe it or not, some people go so far as to bypass certain jobs simply because they know those roles require public speaking. That means missing out on potentially higher paying opportunities. Even if you’re in a job already, glossophobia could make it harder for you to climb the corporate ladder if presenting is a required part of a higher position.

How to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking

The feeling of hundreds of eyes on you, all of them waiting for you to speak can be nerve-wracking. But don’t worry! There are practical ways to beat this fear and become a confident speaker.

Breathe Deeply

One way to overcome your fear of public speaking is by practicing deep breathing exercises. Remember, when your brain perceives danger, it automatically sends your body into fight-or-flight mode, which can cause you to hyperventilate or hold your breath. In order to keep oxygen flowing, taking deep breaths is key. And, no, it’s not some esoteric mumbo-jumbo; it’s scientifically proven that taking slow, deep breaths helps reduce anxiety and calm your nerves.

To practice, use the easy breathing techniques found here , all of which can help you relax both mind and body before getting up on stage.

Mindful Visualization

Anxiety often stems from our imagination running wild with negative outcomes. To fix this, we need to use positive visualization.

Mindful visualization is technique used by top performers across a variety of fields. In practice, it involves picturing yourself delivering an outstanding speech successfully while maintaining a positive mindset throughout the process. While it may sound silly, positive visualization works wonders for anxiety, making sure the negative thoughts don’t run rampant.

Familiarize Yourself With The Venue And Audience

If you remember from earlier, situational challenges are a major factor contributing to a fear of public speaking. Among other things, these challenges can include unfamiliar audiences. As a result, familiarizing yourself with your speaking venue and educating yourself more about your audience could give you that much-needed confidence boost.

Knowing Your Audience 101: A Detailed Guide for Speakers, provides comprehensive insights into understanding one’s audience better.

Practice Makes Perfect

Just like learning a musical instrument or a new language, mastering public speaking requires practice. Try rehearsing in front of the mirror, or recording yourself and playing it back to observe your body language and tone.

If possible, try presenting to a small group of friends or coworkers. Although it can still be nerve-wracking to speak in front of a familiar audience, it can be helpful to get in a little extra practice time with an audience that could give you some valuable feedback and encouragement.

For more tips, check out Toastmasters International , an online resource for public speakers, offers valuable resources on improving public speaking skills through constant practice.

Role of Professional Help in Managing Fear of Public Speaking

For some, fear of public speaking is a deeper issue, one that doesn’t go away even after a lot of practice and breathing exercises. If this is you, there’s good news—professional help is available and it makes a real difference. Therapists or coaches with experience in this field can provide effective strategies to manage your fear.

To get personalized guidance, consider working one-on-one with an experienced therapist specifically trained in managing public speaking anxieties. Professionally trained, these therapists get to understand the root cause behind your fears which allows them to tailor techniques that best suit your situation.

The Power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a method proven to help individuals overcome their fear of public speaking and is often employed by therapists. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns into positive ones so that the mind responds differently under stress.

Sometimes CBT involves exposure therapy. By exposing you to what you’re afraid of (in this case, public speaking), a therapist can walk with you through the emotions you experience, helping you identify unhelpful thought patterns and advising you on how to keep your fears in check. The goal of exposure therapy is to gradually train your mind to resist panic through repeated interaction.

Speech Coaches

Besides therapists, speech coaches also play an instrumental role in overcoming stage fright. Speech coaching goes beyond merely polishing presentation skills; they also tackle underlying confidence issues affecting performance during public addresses.

If you’re looking for online resources, then we’re here for you! Here at The Speaker Lab , we’re committed to helping individuals find their voice. Check out our blog for advice on creating compelling speeches and rehearsing your next presentation .

Group Therapy–You’re Not Alone

You might be surprised to learn that group therapy is another powerful tool in the battle against glossophobia. Group settings provide a supportive environment where you can practice speaking skills without judgment or ridicule.

Toastmasters International, for instance, provides a safe platform for individuals grappling with public speaking fears to gain experience and grow in self-assuredness by practicing speeches among understanding peers.

Pairing the right professional guidance with consistent effort can lead to remarkable results. This is a great combo that should not be disregarded.

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How Technology Can Help Conquer Fear of Public Speaking

The rise in technology is transforming the landscape for public speaking. It’s a two-way street; on one hand, it can offer assistance to ease apprehension and enhance execution, yet it can also heighten fears.

Virtual Reality: Practice Makes Perfect

Immersive experiences like virtual reality (VR) are becoming a popular way to combat stage fright. Simulating real-life environments, VR allows speakers to practice their presentations in front of virtual audiences. One VR app, called VirtualSpeech , even lets users choose between a photo-realistic audience or a reactive audience of AI-powered avatars controlled by ChatGPT. This innovative method helps speakers get comfortable with being “on stage” without actual people watching.

While VR solutions to glossophobia are still quite new, early results show promise.

Apps That Ease Anxiety

In addition, anxiety-reducing apps—sometimes used in conjunction with therapy or coaching sessions—can be a valuable tool for managing public speaking fears. Apps like Headspace , Calm , and Anxiety Coach by Mayo Clinic  offer guided meditations, mindfulness exercises and cognitive-behavioral strategies to help individuals manage anxiety before a big presentation.

FAQs on Fear of Public Speaking

How can you overcome your fear of public speaking.

By practicing regularly, preparing thoroughly for each speech, focusing on the message rather than yourself, and using relaxation techniques like deep breathing, you can conquer this fear.

How do you get rid of glossophobia?

Glossophobia, or the fear of public speaking, is best handled with exposure therapy. This means gradually facing the feared situation until it no longer triggers anxiety.

Do I have glossophobia?

If giving a speech or presentation causes extreme distress and impacts your life negatively, there’s a chance that you might be dealing with glossophobia.

Why am I so scared of presenting?

Fear of judgment from others often sparks this fright. It’s normal to feel some nerves, but if it’s crippling your performance, then steps should be taken to address it.

Public speaking doesn’t have to be a monster lurking in your professional life. It’s entirely possible to conquer it with practical strategies we discussed. As you work to improve your public speaking skills and conquer your fear, remember that getting professional help is not a sign of weakness but an important step towards overcoming this hurdle. Plus, if a technological solution is more your speed, there are also options like VR and meditation apps.

In conclusion, don’t let fear hold you back. The stage is yours—seize it!

• Last Updated: May 2, 2024

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The only thing we have to fear is fear itself

President Hoover, Mr Chief Justice, my friends: this is a day of national consecration. And I am certain that on this day my fellow Americans expect that on my induction into the presidency, I will address them with a candour and a decision which the present situation of our people impels.

This is pre-eminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great nation will endure, as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself - nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyses needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life, a leadership of frankness and of vigour has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. And I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days.

In such a spirit on my part and on yours we face our common difficulties. They concern, thank God, only material things. Values have shrunk to fantastic levels: taxes have risen; our ability to pay has fallen; government of all kinds is faced by serious curtailment of income; the means of exchange are frozen in the currents of trade; the withered leaves of industrial enterprise lie on every side; farmers find no markets for their produce; and the savings of many years in thousands of families are gone. More important, a host of unemployed citizens face the grim problem of existence, and an equally great number toil with little return. Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment.

And yet our distress comes from no failure of substance. We are stricken by no plague of locusts. Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered, because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for. Nature still offers her bounty and human efforts have multiplied it. Plenty is at our doorstep, but a generous use of it languishes in the very sight of the supply.

Primarily, this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed, through their own stubbornness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failure, and have abdicated. Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men.

True, they have tried. But their efforts have been cast in the pattern of an outworn tradition. Faced by failure of credit, they have proposed only the lending of more money. Stripped of the lure of profit by which to induce our people to follow their false leadership, they have resorted to exhortations, pleading tearfully for restored confidence. They only know the rules of a generation of self-seekers. They have no vision, and when there is no vision the people perish.

Yes, the money changers have fled from their high seats in the temple of our civilisation. We may now restore that temple to the ancient truths. The measure of that restoration lies in the extent to which we apply social values more noble than mere monetary profit.

Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort. The joy, the moral stimulation of work no longer must be forgotten in the mad chase of evanescent profits. These dark days, my friends, will be worth all they cost us if they teach us that our true destiny is not to be ministered unto but to minister to ourselves, to our fellow men.

Recognition of that falsity of material wealth as the standard of success goes hand in hand with the abandonment of the false belief that public office and high political position are to be valued only by the standards of pride of place and personal profit; and there must be an end to a conduct in banking and in business which too often has given to a sacred trust the likeness of callous and selfish wrongdoing. Small wonder that confidence languishes, for it thrives only on honesty, on honour, on the sacredness of obligations, on faithful protection, and on unselfish performance; without them it cannot live.

Restoration calls, however, not for changes in ethics alone. This nation is asking for action, and action now.

Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accomplished in part by direct recruiting by the government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing great, greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganise the use of our great natural resources.

Hand in hand with that we must frankly recognise the overbalance of population in our industrial centres and, by engaging on a national scale in a redistribution, endeavour to provide a better use of the land for those best fitted for the land.

Yes, the task can be helped by definite efforts to raise the values of agricultural products, and with this the power to purchase the output of our cities. It can be helped by preventing realistically the tragedy of the growing loss through foreclosure of our small homes and our farms. It can be helped by insistence that the federal, the state, and the local governments act forthwith on the demand that their cost be drastically reduced. It can be helped by the unifying of relief activities which today are often scattered, uneconomical, unequal. It can be helped by national planning for and supervision of all forms of transportation and of communications and other utilities that have a definitely public character.

There are many ways in which it can be helped, but it can never be helped by merely talking about it.

We must act. We must act quickly. And finally, in our progress towards a resumption of work, we require two safeguards against a return of the evils of the old order. There must be a strict supervision of all banking and credits and investments. There must be an end to speculation with other people's money. And there must be provision for an adequate but sound currency.

These, my friends, are the lines of attack. I shall presently urge upon a new Congress in special session detailed measures for their fulfilment, and I shall seek the immediate assistance of the 48 States.

Through this programme of action we address ourselves to putting our own national house in order and making income balance outgo. Our international trade relations, though vastly important, are in point of time, and necessity, secondary to the establishment of a sound national economy. I favour, as a practical policy, the putting of first things first. I shall spare no effort to restore world trade by international economic readjustment; but the emergency at home cannot wait on that accomplishment.

The basic thought that guides these specific means of national recovery is not nationally - narrowly nationalistic. It is the insistence, as a first consideration, upon the interdependence of the various elements in and parts of the United States of America - a recognition of the old and permanently important manifestation of the American spirit of the pioneer. It is the way to recovery. It is the immediate way. It is the strongest assurance that recovery will endure.

In the field of world policy, I would dedicate this nation to the policy of the good neighbour: the neighbour who resolutely respects himself and, because he does so, respects the rights of others; the neighbour who respects his obligations and respects the sanctity of his agreements in and with a world of neighbours.

If I read the temper of our people correctly, we now realise, as we have never realised before, our interdependence on each other; that we can not merely take, but we must give as well; that if we are to go forward, we must move as a trained and loyal army willing to sacrifice for the good of a common discipline, because without such discipline no progress can be made, no leadership becomes effective.

We are, I know, ready and willing to submit our lives and our property to such discipline, because it makes possible a leadership which aims at the larger good. This, I propose to offer, pledging that the larger purposes will bind upon us, bind upon us all as a sacred obligation with a unity of duty hitherto evoked only in times of armed strife. With this pledge taken, I assume unhesitatingly the leadership of this great army of our people dedicated to a disciplined attack upon our common problems.

Action in this image, action to this end is feasible under the form of government which we have inherited from our ancestors. Our constitution is so simple, so practical that it is possible always to meet extraordinary needs by changes in emphasis and arrangement without loss of essential form. That is why our constitutional system has proved itself the most superbly enduring political mechanism the modern world has ever seen.

It has met every stress of vast expansion of territory, of foreign wars, of bitter internal strife, of world relations. And it is to be hoped that the normal balance of executive and legislative authority may be wholly equal, wholly adequate to meet the unprecedented task before us. But it may be that an unprecedented demand and need for undelayed action may call for temporary departure from that normal balance of public procedure.

I am prepared under my constitutional duty to recommend the measures that a stricken nation in the midst of a stricken world may require. These measures, or such other measures as the Congress may build out of its experience and wisdom, I shall seek, within my constitutional authority, to bring to speedy adoption.

But, in the event that the Congress shall fail to take one of these two courses, in the event that the national emergency is still critical, I shall not evade the clear course of duty that will then confront me. I shall ask the Congress for the one remaining instrument to meet the crisis - broad executive power to wage a war against the emergency, as great as the power that would be given to me if we were in fact invaded by a foreign foe.

For the trust reposed in me, I will return the courage and the devotion that befit the time. I can do no less.

We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of national unity; with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values; with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stern performance of duty by old and young alike. We aim at the assurance of a rounded, a permanent national life.

We do not distrust the future of essential democracy. The people of the United States have not failed. In their need they have registered a mandate that they want direct, vigorous action. They have asked for discipline and direction under leadership. They have made me the present instrument of their wishes. In the spirit of the gift I take it.

In this dedication - in this dedication of a nation, we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us. May He guide me in the days to come.

• Franklin D Roosevelt
• Great speeches of the 20th century

Most viewed

This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today.

This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper.

So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself - nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days. In such a spirit on my part and on yours we face our common difficulties. They concern, thank God, only material things. Values have shrunken to fantastic levels; taxes have risen; our ability to pay has fallen; government of all kinds is faced by serious curtailment of income; the means of exchange are frozen in the currents of trade; the withered leaves of industrial enterprise lie on every side; farmers find no markets for their produce; the savings of many years in thousands of families are gone. More important, a host of unemployed citizens face the grim problem of existence, and an equally great number toil with little return. Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment. Yet our distress comes from no failure of substance. We are stricken by no plague of locusts. Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for. Nature still offers her bounty and human efforts have multiplied it. Plenty is at our doorstep, but a generous use of it languishes in the very sight of the supply. Primarily this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed, through their own stubbornness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failure, and abdicated. Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men. True they have tried, but their efforts have been cast in the pattern of an outworn tradition. Faced by failure of credit they have proposed only the lending of more money. Stripped of the lure of profit by which to induce our people to follow their false leadership, they have resorted to exhortations, pleading tearfully for restored confidence. They know only the rules of a generation of self-seekers. They have no vision, and when there is no vision the people perish. The money changers have fled from their high seats in the temple of our civilization. We may now restore that temple to the ancient truths. The measure of the restoration lies in the extent to which we apply social values more noble than mere monetary profit. Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort. The joy and moral stimulation of work no longer must be forgotten in the mad chase of evanescent profits. These dark days will be worth all they cost us if they teach us that our true destiny is not to be ministered unto but to minister to ourselves and to our fellow men. Recognition of the falsity of material wealth as the standard of success goes hand in hand with the abandonment of the false belief that public office and high political position are to be valued only by the standards of pride of place and personal profit; and there must be an end to a conduct in banking and in business which too often has given to a sacred trust the likeness of callous and selfish wrongdoing. Small wonder that confidence languishes, for it thrives only on honesty, on honor, on the sacredness of obligations, on faithful protection, on unselfish performance; without them it cannot live. Restoration calls, however, not for changes in ethics alone. This Nation asks for action, and action now. Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accomplished in part by direct recruiting by the Government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganize the use of our natural resources. Hand in hand with this we must frankly recognize the overbalance of population in our industrial centers and, by engaging on a national scale in a redistribution, endeavor to provide a better use of the land for those best fitted for the land. The task can be helped by definite efforts to raise the values of agricultural products and with this the power to purchase the output of our cities. It can be helped by preventing realistically the tragedy of the growing loss through foreclosure of our small homes and our farms. It can be helped by insistence that the Federal, State, and local governments act forthwith on the demand that their cost be drastically reduced. It can be helped by the unifying of relief activities which today are often scattered, uneconomical, and unequal. It can be helped by national planning for and supervision of all forms of transportation and of communications and other utilities which have a definitely public character. There are many ways in which it can be helped, but it can never be helped merely by talking about it. We must act and act quickly. Finally, in our progress toward a resumption of work we require two safeguards against a return of the evils of the old order; there must be a strict supervision of all banking and credits and investments; there must be an end to speculation with other people's money, and there must be provision for an adequate but sound currency. There are the lines of attack. I shall presently urge upon a new Congress in special session detailed measures for their fulfillment, and I shall seek the immediate assistance of the several States. Through this program of action we address ourselves to putting our own national house in order and making income balance outgo. Our international trade relations, though vastly important, are in point of time and necessity secondary to the establishment of a sound national economy. I favor as a practical policy the putting of first things first. I shall spare no effort to restore world trade by international economic readjustment, but the emergency at home cannot wait on that accomplishment. The basic thought that guides these specific means of national recovery is not narrowly nationalistic. It is the insistence, as a first consideration, upon the interdependence of the various elements in all parts of the United States--a recognition of the old and permanently important manifestation of the American spirit of the pioneer. It is the way to recovery. It is the immediate way. It is the strongest assurance that the recovery will endure. In the field of world policy I would dedicate this Nation to the policy of the good neighbor--the neighbor who resolutely respects himself and, because he does so, respects the rights of others-- the neighbor who respects his obligations and respects the sanctity of his agreements in and with a world of neighbors. If I read the temper of our people correctly, we now realize as we have never realized before our interdependence on each other; that we can not merely take but we must give as well; that if we are to go forward, we must move as a trained and loyal army willing to sacrifice for the good of a common discipline, because without such discipline no progress is made, no leadership becomes effective. We are, I know, ready and willing to submit our lives and property to such discipline, because it makes possible a leadership which aims at a larger good. This I propose to offer, pledging that the larger purposes will bind upon us all as a sacred obligation with a unity of duty hitherto evoked only in time of armed strife. With this pledge taken, I assume unhesitatingly the leadership of this great army of our people dedicated to a disciplined attack upon our common problems. Action in this image and to this end is feasible under the form of government which we have inherited from our ancestors. Our Constitution is so simple and practical that it is possible always to meet extraordinary needs by changes in emphasis and arrangement without loss of essential form. That is why our constitutional system has proved itself the most superbly enduring political mechanism the modern world has produced. It has met every stress of vast expansion of territory, of foreign wars, of bitter internal strife, of world relations. It is to be hoped that the normal balance of executive and legislative authority may be wholly adequate to meet the unprecedented task before us. But it may be that an unprecedented demand and need for undelayed action may call for temporary departure from that normal balance of public procedure. I am prepared under my constitutional duty to recommend the measures that a stricken nation in the midst of a stricken world may require. These measures, or such other measures as the Congress may build out of its experience and wisdom, I shall seek, within my constitutional authority, to bring to speedy adoption. But in the event that the Congress shall fail to take one of these two courses, and in the event that the national emergency is still critical, I shall not evade the clear course of duty that will then confront me. I shall ask the Congress for the one remaining instrument to meet the crisis--broad Executive power to wage a war against the emergency, as great as the power that would be given to me if we were in fact invaded by a foreign foe. For the trust reposed in me I will return the courage and the devotion that befit the time. I can do no less. We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of the national unity; with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values; with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stem performance of duty by old and young alike. We aim at the assurance of a rounded and permanent national life. We do not distrust the future of essential democracy. The people of the United States have not failed. In their need they have registered a mandate that they want direct, vigorous action. They have asked for discipline and direction under leadership. They have made me the present instrument of their wishes. In the spirit of the gift I take it. In this dedication of a Nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us. May He guide me in the days to come.  

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Politics latest: MP defection 'cheap party political point-scoring'; UK and allies 'at a crossroads', Cameron argues

The fallout is continuing from the shock defection of MP Natalie Elphicke from the Conservatives over to Labour. She has now released a statement apologising for supporting her ex-husband, who was her predecessor as MP for Dover, after his sexual assault conviction.

Thursday 9 May 2024 23:03, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• New Labour MP issues apology
• Cameron says defection 'says more about Starmer'
• Analysis: Public will see through 'cheap party political point-scoring' party switch
• Rob Powell: Elphicke apology unlikely to change minds
• Minister insists party 'not trying to chase Reform'
• Ex-chancellor to stand down at election  | Every MP who's quitting
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch and (earlier)  Faith Ridler

Thank you for joining us for another busy day in politics.

Here's what happened:

• Lord Cameron delivered two speeches today in which he called for NATO to make 2.5% of GDP the default defence spending target;
• Prime Minister Rishi Sunak summoned university bosses to Downing Street where he urged them to tackle antisemitism on campuses that has risen by over 200%;
• Labour's new MP Natalie Elphicke apologised for supporting her ex-husband after his sex assault conviction, which has created huge controversy in the Labour Party;
• Former chancellor and vaccines minister, Nadhim Zahawi, announced he will stand down at the next election;
• Newly re-election Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen hit out at the "chaos" in the Tory party and said responsibility "ultimately lies with Rishi (Sunak)";
• The government triggered emergency plans to be able to hold prisoners in police cells due to a shortage of places in the system - and is blaming it on barristers taking industrial action;
• Interest rates were held at 5.25% in a blow to the PM who wants them to come down ahead of the general election.

Join us again from 6am for the very latest political news.

By  Faye Brown , political reporter

Labour will create a new Border Security Command to tackle people-smuggling gangs bringing migrants across the Channel, Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce.

The "elite" unit, to be part-funded by scrapping the Tories' Rwanda deportation scheme, will be led by a former police, military or intelligence chief and be granted new powers under the Counter Terrorism Act.

These powers will allow officers to conduct stop and searches at the border, carry out financial investigations and issue search and seizure warrants targeting organised immigration crime.

Sir Keir will outline the measures in a speech on the Kent coast on Friday, when he will vow to "replace gimmicks with graft" and draw on his experience as the former head of the Crown Prosecution Service.

Read extracts from Sir Keir's speech below:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Lord Cameron has just delivered his second speech of the day - this time at the Lord Mayor's banquet in central London.

Here are the key points of what he said (this post was updated live):

• The foreign secretary opens by saying: "I thought my days of dressing up in white tie and speaking in halls like this were well and truly over, so I want to thank PM Rishi Sunak for bringing me out of retirement";
• He says his six month as the UK's top diplomat "have been every bit a whirlwind as much as being prime minister" - but "not quite as exciting";
• Lord Cameron argues that foreign policy cannot be divorced from economic performance;
• He says movements to "pull up the drawbridge" and retreat into isolationism are "profoundly wrong" - but they cannot be ignored;
• The current dangerous world is "in stark contrast to my first years in politics", he says, and argues we must "face up to that situation";
• "My conviction is that we, with our partners, can choose to make a difference - we have agency. The question is whether we have the courage to use it, the courage to act";
• He says the government is "hardening" defences against attacks on our infrastructure - both physical and cyber following recent attacks;
• The foreign secretary reiterates his call for spending 2.5% of GDP on defence to be the standard NATO benchmark;
• He calls on the allies to join the UK in committing funding to Ukraine until 2030;
• On the Israel-Hamas war, Lord Cameron says he wants the fighting to end now and for the hostages released, but says: "Simply calling for an immediate ceasefire does not make it more likely", arguing that practical steps need to be taken;
• He concludes by saying: "We are at a crossroads: if we make the right choices, if we act now, a bright future awaits, but if we hesitate, our adversaries will write our futures for us";

The foreign secretary is giving his second speech of the day.

Lord Cameron will be donning his white tie at Mansion House for a slightly shorter version of the speech he gave this morning on the UK's foreign policy and national security.

Follow live coverage here in the Politics Hub.

The government has triggered emergency plans to be able to hold prisoners in police cells due to a shortage of places in the system - and is blaming it on barristers taking industrial action.

Operation Safeguard triggers the availability of cells in police stations for prisoners sentenced by the courts when there is a critical shortage of normal spaces.

Sky News understands the Ministry of Justice has formally requested that a limited number of cells be made available.

The government insists that this is "not an unprecedented measure" and has been deployed over four periods since 2006 - and most recently in February and April this year.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said the emergency measure "is helping us respond to acute capacity pressures caused in part by barristers' industrial action and the aftermath of the pandemic, while we press ahead with delivering the biggest expansion of prison places in a century including six new jails".

On this episode, Niall Paterson speaks to one of the doctors who worked to restore the hearing of an 18-month-old girl – who was born deaf.

Medics at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge have used gene therapy to help a rare condition, auditory neuropathy. It's caused by the disruption of nerve impulses travelling from the inner ear to the brain.

Opal Sandy can now respond to her parents' voices and can communicate words such as "Dada" and "bye-bye".

Plus, Natalie Elphicke, the MP who defected from the Conservatives to Labour yesterday, apologises for comments she made after her ex-husband, and predecessor as MP for Dover, was convicted of sexual assault in 2020.

She said at the time that being "attractive" and "attracted to women" had made him an "easy target".

Niall talks to deputy political editor Sam Coates about the disquiet within Labour over Mrs Elphicke’s arrival.

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts  👈

In a short while, the foreign secretary is due to give his second speech of the day.

We will have live coverage here on the Politics Hub, so do follow along.

Above: The last time David Cameron addressed a Mansion House audience, just weeks before the Brexit vote and his resignation.

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

In a dramatic move just moments before Prime Minister's Questions got under way this week, Natalie Elphicke joined Labour as her surprised Conservative colleagues looked on.

What exactly happens when an MP defects to another party?

Ms Elphicke  is far from the first MP to change sides between elections, but it was incredibly rare - until recently - for a member of the governing party to switch to the opposition.

She is the third Tory to do so in just over two years, following  Christian Wakeford in 2022  over the partygate scandal and  Dan Poulter just two weeks ago  over the Tories' handling of the NHS.

Before that, it hadn't happened since 1995, when Alan Howarth became the first ever Conservative to cross to Labour on the eve of his party conference, citing the "divisiveness" of policies under John Major's leadership.

Only three MPs in the past 25 years have gone the other way - from main opposition to government - all leaving the Conservatives to join Labour.

Defecting to smaller parties happens more often, such as moves  from both Conservative and Labour to Change UK  during the Brexit years, or  Douglas Carswell  and  Mark Reckless  heading over to UKIP ahead of the referendum.

By Jenness Mitchell, Scotland reporter

John Swinney has axed the post of minister for independence from his ministerial team.

The role, the first of its kind, was created last year by then first minister Humza Yousaf.

Jamie Hepburn, who previously held the Scottish government post, has now taken over from George Adam as minister for parliamentary business.

Earlier on Thursday, SNP MP Alyn Smith appeared to confirm during a radio interview that the role had been "subsumed" into Angus Robertson's constitution, external affairs and culture brief.

Mr Swinney was  legally sworn in as Scotland's seventh first minister   at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on Wednesday morning.

Read more on the new Scottish cabinet here:

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