OVERCOME FEAR OF SPEAKING
Lately, I’ve been getting so much questions from my course mate and friends on how I overcome stage fright and what they can do about their’s to overcome it too.
I solved their problem by giving them tips and practicals on what to do which work out perfectly well for them. So I’ve decided to publish it so that others can benefit from it.
WHAT IS STAGE FRIGHT?
Stage Fright Is a state of nervousness about performing some action in front of a group of people, on or off a stage; a lack of self-confidence before an audience. It is a state of anxiety or fear which occurs when an individual is faced with the requirement of performing in front of an audience (either directly or through a screen, e.g television).
SYMPTOMS OF STAGE FRIGHT
physical symptoms:
a) Rapid heartbeat
b) Shaking
c) Sweating
d) Dry mouth
Emotional Symptoms:
a) Fear of embarrassment or humiliation.
b) Anxiety or nervousness
c) Panic or feeling overwhelmed
d) Worrying about making mistakes
Cognitive Symptoms:
a) Racing thoughts
b) Difficulty concentrating
c) Mind going blank or forgetting lines
d) Negative anticipation or catastrophic thinking
HOW TO OVERCOME STAGE FRIGHT
1.Self-assessment: Get to know yourself as a business woman, what are your capabilities, limitations, strengths and weaknesses. Identify what you’re afraid of and deal with it.
2. Preparation: Thoroughly prepare and rehearse your material to build confidence in your performance. Practice regularly until you feel comfortable with your material.
3. Eye contact: Be alert and have an eye contact with your audience to know if they’re still engaged and following up with your speech or not.
4. Visualization: Visualize yourself succeeding and performing well in front of your audience. Imagine yourself feeling calm, confident, and in control. Visualization can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
5. Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Challenge self-doubt and negative beliefs by reminding yourself of past successes and strengths. Repeat affirmations such as "I am prepared," "I am confident," and "I can do this."
6. Be your own audience: Practice talking to yourself,you can stand in front of your mirror to rehearse your speech before your big day,your gesture and composure matters alot.
