Do You Have a Fear of Public Speaking?

"Before the event began, I circulated among the attendees to arrange the order for the remarks. To my surprise, most said, "Sorry, I can't speak in public." But I understood. In my youth, I had the lead in a Christmas pageant. I was so afraid that I threw up and could not do it. As I grew older, my fear of speaking continued. Nervousness, palpitations, sweaty palms. I knew I had to overcome my fear."

"How can one develop as a leader? In my opinion, the key is your personal growth, which continues throughout life. There are multiple skills that prepare you to assume leadership roles at work or in your community. Of these, developing your ability to speak in front of others ranks high. For many, this may be one of their greatest fears."

Personal growth underpins leadership development and continues throughout life. Speaking in front of others is a high-value skill for assuming leadership roles at work and in the community. Estimates of glossophobia range from 25 to 75 percent depending on population and survey methods, and many people experience some degree of speech anxiety. Even accomplished professionals often avoid public speaking because of nervousness, palpitations, and sweaty palms. Breathing exercises can relax mind and body; one effective technique involves taking a deep breath, holding briefly, slowly exhaling, lingering before the next breath, and repeating. Comfort with public speaking can open new opportunities.

Read at Psychology Today