Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?
The Unspoken Truth About Public Speaking: A Trainer’s Confession
As a trainer, I’m often expected to be confident and composed when delivering speeches or conducting training sessions. However, I must confess that despite my experience, I still get nervous and mumble at times. In this post, we’ll explore the reality of public speaking, and I’ll share my personal experiences and strategies for managing those pesky pre-speech jitters.
The Reality of Public Speaking
Public speaking is a crucial skill for many professionals, including trainers, teachers, and business leaders. While some people seem to take to it naturally, others struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and fear of failure. According to a survey by the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 75% of people experience some level of public speaking anxiety.
My Personal Experience
As a trainer, I’ve had to perform on stage and deliver speeches on a regular basis. While I’ve become more comfortable over time, I still get nervous before each session. My mind starts racing with thoughts of “What if I forget what to say?” or “What if the audience doesn’t engage?” I’ve learned to manage these nerves by preparing thoroughly, visualizing success, and taking deep breaths before going on stage.
Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt
So, how do I overcome my anxiety and self-doubt? Here are a few strategies that have worked for me:
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare: The more prepared I am, the less room there is for anxiety and self-doubt.
2. Visualize success: I close my eyes and imagine myself delivering a successful presentation. This helps to boost my confidence and reduce my nerves.
3. Take deep breaths: Before going on stage, I take a few deep breaths to calm my nerves and slow down my heart rate.
4. Focus on the message: Instead of worrying about how I’m coming across, I focus on the message I’m trying to convey. This helps me to stay present and engaged.
Camouflaging Anxiety with a Smile
I still remember the times when I was in school and had to give speeches or participate in assembly duties. I would often get anxious and nervous, but I learned to camouflage it with a smile. This trick has stayed with me to this day, and I often use it to hide my nerves before a presentation.
Conclusion
Public speaking is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. Even experienced trainers like myself still get nervous and mumble at times. However, by preparing thoroughly, visualizing success, and focusing on the message, we can learn to manage our anxiety and deliver confident, engaging presentations. So, the next time you’re faced with a public speaking opportunity, remember that it’s okay to be nervous, and with practice and persistence, you can become a confident and compelling speaker.
