Anxious about an upcoming speech that you have to give? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Although more people fear giving a speech in front of others than death, it is possible to learn how to prevent public speaking anxiety. One powerful technique to use to prevent public speaking anxiety is to visualize. Everyone visualizes before they give a speech, but chances are you are doing it incorrectly. Take a moment and think about the day when you will be giving your speech. What thoughts pop into your head? Take
a moment to think them over and write them down. Do any of your thoughts sound like this? “What if I make a mistake?” “What if I drop my notecards?” “What if no one laughs at my joke?” “What if people look bored?” “What if…?” “What if…” “What if…?” Every time you think of the future and you experience a “what if” moment, you are training your body to feel more nervous and your anxiety increases. You are conditioning yourself to do poorly. This ability has helped our ancestors in the past. Feelings of anxiety and the flee or fight preparation that our body utilizes are great when real danger is present. So be grateful that your body has the ability to warn you with anxiety, but know that it no longer serves its purpose. You need to let it go. You will need to train yourself to think in a different matter. It will take time, but do not give up. Every time you have a negative “what if” moment, say “stop it.” Interrupt the negative thought. Take control of it. Sing a song, do a silly dance, or talk to a friend. Recognize the thought for what it is and do not let it affect you. If you like, you can let the thought run on and assert your control by taking it to a ridiculous ending.
Feb
27