Stage fright is a widespread anxiety, but it doesn’t have to keep you down. With the right approach, anyone can transform anxiety into confidence and excel as a public speaker. The journey from fear to fearlessness begins with accepting that nerves are normal and controllable.
Planning is your best defence against stage fright. Become familiar with your material inside out, but don’t just recite—become one with the content so you can speak naturally. Rehearse in front of trusted listeners or even read more a mirror, perfecting your delivery. Imagining a positive outcome—imagine the applause and the power of your message—can also elevate your confidence.
On the big day, embrace techniques like controlled inhalation or assertive postures to regain focus. Remember, your audience isn’t there to judge—they’re rooting for you. The more you concentrate on serving them, the less you’ll stress over your performance. Defeating nervousness isn’t about eliminating nerves; it’s about harnessing them to fuel your performance.