Many people have an overwhelming fear of addressing the public; some even claim to have “stage fright” or anxiety when speaking. This can happen in small and big groups, and it can impede professional and private development. Therefore, I will talk about my experiences with anxiety related to speaking to an audience, coping mechanisms I have used to manage stage fright, and the usefulness of “self-talk” in conquering speech anxiety.
I have personally experienced talking in front of an audience which can cause communication anxiety and is extremely stressful. Anxiety can impair communication since it might lead to a fear of evaluation or judgment. I have witnessed this occur to other people, including acquaintances or coworkers, who are usually confident yet may feel anxious when speaking in front of a crowd. Some techniques that have worked for me and others to lessen the anxiety related to giving speeches include planning, execution, and meditation (Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 2019). While exercise entails repeatedly practicing the speech or performance to instill self-assurance, preparation entails thoroughly understanding the subject and the intended audience. By picturing oneself giving the speech or presenting successfully in one’s head, imagination can be a powerful tool in reducing anxiety and building confidence.
In addition to these methods, “self-talk” is beneficial in lowering anxiety when communicating. Positive self-talk includes using affirmations to counter negative thoughts or fears (Dhu, 2023). One might use phrases like “I am completely ready for this speech” or “I have full trust in my abilities.” When addressing an audience, shifting one’s mindset from a pessimistic to an upbeat one may make individuals feel more comfortable and less nervous. I believe a helpful technique for conquering stage fright is to utilize positive self-talk to combat negative ideas and fears. However, it ought not to be the only strategy used. Planning carefully, practicing, and using imagery are different components of effective speech anxiety control.
References
Anxiety and Depression Association of America. (2019). Conquering stage fright | Anxiety and depression. Web.
Dhu, P. (2023). 6 techniques for overcoming stage fright and nervousness. Corporate Communication Experts. Web.