Fearful of Public Speaking? Start by Doing This!

The best way to overcome the fear of speaking before groups of people is to reframe the emotion. By labeling your physical reaction (heart racing, hands sweating, mouth dry) as fear-based, you will struggle to rise above it.

You need to reframe it as excitement!

Many of us choose to do things that fill us with fear and trepidation. (Ride a roller-coaster, go bungee jumping, become parents) and yet it doesn’t stop us—we still go ahead and do it.

The difference is, we frame it as excitement. We tell ourselves that the racing heart and sweaty hands are signs of how thrilled we are to try this new adventure. We think about how exhilarating it will be and how great we will feel afterward, knowing we accepted the challenge. We are excited!

Next time you experience Glossophobia—the fear of public speaking—remind yourself that what you are feeling is excitement.

Say to yourself: I am excited because I am passionate and knowledgeable about my topic, and I am eager to share it with my listeners.