Public Speaking Isn't Just for Presidents

Speaking in public actually ranks as number one in the top ten list of the greatest fears in America, number one! This is the same list that includes things like the fear of dying, the fear of heights, and the fear of darkness, just to name a few. The thought of standing up in front of a crowd and speaking a few words creates a violent physical reaction for some people. Nausea, vomiting, cold sweats, the shakes, you name it, people experience it. But the truth is, public speaking is a skill that you should have been able to master at a very young age! Of course, as most of us spend most of our lives trying to avoid public speaking situations,  we don't learn the skills required to deliver believable, noteworthy speeches. Guess what, it's time to stop being a wallflower because fewer and fewer of us have the luxury of hiding in the shadows. You are only doing yourself a disservice.

There are several things we know about public speaking, one being that if you lack the confidence to stand up and speak in front of a group of people whether it's five people or five hundred, it can permanently hurt your career. You could be passed over for promotions of any kind, because you lack the confidence needed to show leadership and inspire others to follow. Statistically, it doesn't matter if you're  a man or woman, both sexes are equally terrified to speak publicly, however, it has been shown that women suffer longer, and men tend to seek help for their anxiety. C'mon girls, we're better than that! 

The anxiety behind public speaking generally starts when children are very young. They're shy around other children, and as they get older, they fall prey to peer pressure, when being outspoken and different isn't cool. Parents and teachers don't realize that letting social awkwardness and speaking fears flourish, they are harming those children far more than helping them.

If you feel that you are one of those individuals that's terrified to speak in front of others, it's time to take charge of your future. Whether it's giving a speech at a wedding, making a presentation in the boardroom or you're defending your dissertation, acquiring the skills to deliver your words in an effective manner will set you apart from those who are too afraid to step out of their shell. Make the change today.