How to Overcome Your Fears: Public Speaking

We've all been there.

Whether it be something as simple as asking a question in class to giving a speech on why people should vote for you for the next class rep.

And the tip that you should just imagine everybody in their underwear does not help.

In fact, you just might go red in embarrassment or pale in disgust - neither of which are very helpful when it comes to talking to an audience. 

So here are my tips to help you get over your fear of public speaking!

(And by the way, none of them relate to undergarments - so don't worry.)

To be frank, I used to have a huge fear of speaking in front of people.
I would stutter and shake, or just simply cower away.

But what good does that do?

NOTHING, that's what!

So what should you do?

SPEAK!!!!!
Yes, it's difficult, I agree.

But the more you do it, the more confortable you get with it, and the more confortable
you are with it - the less you will  fear it!!!

Let's continue with my example.

Once again, I was a mumbler.

After transferring to Burke, I decided that I should challenge myself.

Recently, my newest challenge was to tackle my fear of public speaking.

So last December I gave a presentation on St. Lucia Day.
(A Swedish holiday I have been celebrating since I lived in Sweden.)

Yes, it was nerve-wrecking at first.
I had the butterflies (or, as Jehaan calls them, the elephants) in my stomach but once I got into it, I realized . . .
Hey! I can do this!

Afterwards, I felt empowered and decided I should do it again.

So I did.

Tonight, I read my poem "Delilah's Story" at Open Mic Night at my school.

Before, I was slightly nervous - but not as much as last time.

But once I got up there, it was so easy!

Once I finished, I once again felt empowered and strong.


So next time a public speaking opportunity arises, sign me up!

If there is isn't one, I'll make one!