The Human brain starts working the moment you are born and never stops, until you stand up to speak in public.” These are the words of George Jessel, an America actor, known in his lifetime as ‘Toastmaster General of the United States’.
Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking is evident among people irrespective of colour, class and calling. It affects politicians, professionals, preachers, teachers, managers, job seekers and students.
For the Nervous Novice, public speaking is a ‘no-go’ area. But really anybody can battle with nerves, including some seasoned speakers. But the challenge is being able to channel your adrenaline towards excitement instead of fear. Yes, you can tremble from time to time, but you should never fall!
Many people confess to dread public speaking next to death. Canadian wellness and health expert, Beverly Beurmann-King asserts that the fear of public speaking is a source of stress, hence a public health issue. When I first spoke with Beverly many years ago, she reinforced the fact that even though public speaking is safe, many shudder at the thought of it and thus develop ailments such as nausea, palpitations, high blood pressure, stomach upset, headache, insomnia, sweaty palms, dry throat and other physical tensions.
The fear of public speaking is real. It is characterized by unwarranted and persistent fear of public appearance.
It is really interesting to know that for many, public speaking fear ranks higher than the fear of death and disease.
The fear of public speaking can sometimes tilt to insecurity. I mean there is something about being on the spot that may make you feel emotionally naked. Really, standing up there, with all eyes on you can be excruciating, but your ability to face your fear makes a huge difference.
Morton C. Orman, MD, in his discourse; “How to conquer Public Speaking Fear” asserts that Public Speaking is a common source of stress for everyone. But it does not have to be stressful, especially when you correctly understand the hidden causes of public speaking stress, and if you keep just a few key principles in mind.
I may not know where you are coming from, but I know that you really desire to become a success in your business. Everyone has a story to tell when it comes to addressing a group of people. I do not know your story. What is your own story? What lessons did you take away from it?
Your worry may be that you want to become a profound and inspiring public speaker.
You have been dreaming of how to make effective and efficient presentations, but do not know how to start.
You could be struggling with poor leadership, business failure, career redundancy and relationship crisis.
The good news I have for you today is that at last, we can work out practical steps for you to follow to realize your dreams. Please stay with me, because together, we shall find all the answers we need to speak without fear.
CHIAMAKA BOBBY-UMEANO
