Public speaking! Many of us struggle when we have to speak in front of an audience, whether it's a presentation at university, a speech at work, or an artistic performance.
I remember that when I had to give presentations at university, I would get a stomachache and terrible diarrhea. I knew it wasn't because I'd eaten something bad; my emotions were making themselves known at that moment.
Public Speaking Tips
Overcoming nerves, anxiety, and fear in these situations isn't easy. It takes time, commitment, and, above all, patience. Here are some tips to help you gradually get more comfortable speaking in public.
Act as if you weren’t afraid
This is a technique used in psychology to help you change your attitude, overcome a fear, or acquire a new skill. It’s very simple, and I’ll explain how it works.
The technique basically involves acting the way you’d like to feel and look—acting like the person you want to become. In other words, instead of waiting until you feel ready inside before showing it on the outside, you act that way first and then the feelings follow. It’s somewhat contrary to what we’ve been taught all our lives.
I remember one day when I had a big presentation. I was very nervous, so I told myself, “You’ve done this many times,” “You’re an expert on the subject,” “You always win over the audience,” and “It’s simple and easy—you’re a wonderful presenter.”
None of it was true. Still, I got into character: I thought about the way I walked, my posture, and what I wore. I walked into the room pretending to be confident, and guess what? They congratulated me on how well I did, and I got an excellent grade.
So, the next time—and eventually—you won’t need to act anymore, because it will become a real part of you.
Externalize your fears
There is a type of therapy called “narrative therapy,” which uses a technique based mainly on understanding that our conflicts, problems, fears, addictions, and mistakes do not define us.
In other words, you aren’t an alcoholic; you’re a person who has a problem with alcohol. You aren’t a coward; you’re a person being affected by fear. Seeing our greatest fears and conflicts as something outside ourselves gives us more control over them.
Why? Because we know they aren’t part of our true selves. We weren’t born this way; these things are affecting us.
Here’s an example. When I was overwhelmed by anxiety and insecurity, I gave them names: I called my anxiety “Pancha” and my insecurity “Negrita.” I’d say, “I don’t want you with me today. I won’t let you in. Today, confidence and calm are coming with me, so get the hell out of here.” I’d leave the house sure that I’d left them behind and they couldn’t follow me.
Give it a try!
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Practice public speaking
They say practice makes perfect, and it’s more than just a saying—it really makes sense. The more we practice something, the better we get at it. This applies not only to learning something like a language, an instrument, or a sport, but also to overcoming our fears.
Practice giving speeches to yourself in front of a mirror, and record yourself on video or audio. Then choose a trusted friend and give a short speech—your presentation, a topic you like, or anything you want. After that, find an opportunity to face your fear, such as a book club, poetry reading, storytelling group, or something similar…
I know it sounds difficult, but let me tell you: the only way to overcome your fears is to face them, not run away. So you’ll have to do it again and again until you feel more and more confident. I promise, it’s possible.
I remember my current supervisor at work. At first, he couldn’t speak during meetings. He got so nervous that he mixed up everything he said. The meetings lasted 5 minutes, and he was drenched in sweat.
Now, after about a year, he’s a completely different person. He cracks jokes and makes comments during meetings, laughs, and seems calm and confident. He only managed to overcome his fear after meeting upon meeting upon meeting.
So now you know: try these simple public speaking tips, and above all, remember to breathe. Inhale and exhale slowly as you count; this will calm your body and help you feel more at ease. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated and eat a substantial meal before standing in front of an audience.
