Watch this short video on controlling fear. Show Toastmasters have produced a very useful guide to managing and even making use of fear in your speaking, the workshop Controlling your Fear. It is common for both experienced and beginning speakers to be nervous about giving a speech. The difference is that the experienced speaker knows how to control this nervousness and use it to enhance the speech. By understanding the causes and symptoms of the fear, a speaker can harness that seemingly negative energy and channel it toward a positive outcome. The experienced speaker also knows how to appear confident in front of an audience. To obtain a confident appearance, a seasoned orator applies the proper methods and techniques for relaxation. ANXIETY TRIGGERS The following are known to trigger anxiety: New and unknown situations – New experiences are stressful. The inability to anticipate the unforeseen causes high levels of anxiety. ANXIETY SYMPTOMS When confronted with a situation that causes anxiety, the body responds by increasing the flow of adrenaline. Adrenaline causes the heart to beat faster. Extra blood and oxygen rush to the muscles and brain. This natural rush provides extra energy that enables quick responses, but it also can have some less desirable effects: Increased heart rate MANAGING ANXIETY Anxiety is common to all speakers who are concerned about their performance. This nervous energy is valuable if used properly. The key is learning to manage it. There are three major methods Experience – Studies show that one of the best methods for reducing anxiety is practice. Repeatedly giving speeches reduces fear and helps to build confidence. After speaking a few times, you begin to put your anxiety into perspective. Try these techniques to gain experience: ■■ Practice in front of a mirror. Visualization – Research shows that vividly imagined events are recorded as memories. To the brain and central nervous system, these memories are indistinguishable from actual experiences. Thought processes cause physiological changes that affect performance. Mentally rehearsing employs thought processes to achieve positive results. Close your eyes as you mentally walk yourself through the following scenario, vividly imagining each action: 1. You are introduced to an audience. Repeat this visualization until your confidence has increased and your anxiety has decreased. Relaxation – Because the mind and body are connected, feelings often affect the body physically. As anxiety builds, so does physical stress. Relaxation and breathing techniques alleviate physical tension and calm the mind. Isometric exercises reduce stress by increasing circulation and the flow of oxygen to the brain. Practice these techniques to reduce tension: ■■ Focus on areas of concentrated tension, such as the shoulders. Tighten your muscles there for a few seconds and then release. Systematically do the same for each major muscle group, starting with the feet
and working up to the facial muscles. CONCLUSION Even after practicing and mentally rehearsing your speech, it’s normal to feel somewhat nervous before your presentation. You want some adrenaline flowing to help you speak energetically. Keep in mind that your audience likely won’t notice your nervousness. Audiences are often unaware of the signs the speaker thinks are embarrassingly obvious. If you walk and speak confidently, The next time you are about to give a speech, as your heart pounds, you have butterflies in your stomach and your knees quiver, turn your anxiety into positive energy using the methods discussed. Your audience will be impressed with your confidence and listen to every word you say. Is the anxiety we experience before giving a speech?Experiencing speech anxiety is normal. Nearly everyone gets nervous when they have to give a speech or a presentation, even experienced speakers. The speakers that look relaxed and confident have simply learned how to handle their anxiety and use it to enhance their performance.
What is the anticipation phase of public speaking?anticipation (the minute prior to starting the speech), confrontation (the first minute of the speech), adaptation (the last minute of the speech), and. release (the minute immediately following the end of the speech) (Witt, et.
What causes anxiety during a speaking event?Although public speaking is one of the most commonly feared situations by the general population, not everyone fears it for the same reason. The main causes of CA can be fear of failure, the audience, high stakes, and being the center of attention.
What is the term for anxiety over the prospect of speaking in front of an audience?What is glossophobia? Glossophobia isn't a dangerous disease or chronic condition. It's the medical term for the fear of public speaking. And it affects as many as four out of 10 Americans. For those affected, speaking in front of a group can trigger feelings of discomfort and anxiety.
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