Chapter 4: Overcoming Fear of Speaking

Chapter 4: Overcoming Fear of Speaking

• Specify your fear
• A specific fear is easier to fix than a vague one. 
• "I'm totally freaking out!"  versus "I'm worried about blanking out!
• Good preparation will help you feel confident
• D&C 38:30 "...but if ye are prepared ye shall not fear."
• Develop a good outline and practice, practice, practice.
• Pray for help to remember what you studied and prepared.
• Visualize success
• When you are experiencing fear and anxiety try imaging yourself confidently delivering the speech
• Replace negative thoughts with positive ones
• Replace Negative: "I'm going to say "um" to much." with Positive: "No one will notice if I say "um" a few times. They will notice my great content and know how hard I worked."
• Try Relaxation Techniques
• Fight or Flight: Your body reacts to fearful situations by preparing it for "fight" or "flight." Public speaking isn't as intense as fighting a tiger or running from one. So... what do we do with the increased heart rate, rush of adrenaline, and tense muscles?
• Breathe! Force some oxygen to your brain. It will help you relax and focus.
• Inhale through the nose and exhale through your mouth. It's the best way to slow down your breathing.
• Go for a brisk walk
• Do some neck rolls, knee bends, or arm swings.