Handling Speaking Apprehension (Anxiety)
- Be prepared before
you speak (e.g., drink tepid water not caffeinated drinks, get plenty of
sleep, eat a good breakfast, etc.)
- Know the signs of
speech anxiety (e.g., dry mouth, shaky legs, etc.)
- Relax by stretching
and/or shaking your legs and hands
- Rehearse your speech
- Know your speaking
environment, such as the classroom layout
- Use your own energy
as well as the audience’s energy as fuel to perform
- Focus on a friendly
face during your speech
- Never apologize for
being nervous because it only draws negative attention
- Have a backup plan
(e.g., Write out important points on note cards.)
- Reward yourself after
the speech
You
would have to turn pale, pass out, and fall into the orchestra pit before
anyone would remember the incident a week later. -Steve Allen
