How to Overcome Fear of Public Speaking – See 5 Prominent Figures Who Have Faced The Fear Of Public Speaking

“Imagine the stage as a battleground, where words wield the power to captivate, inspire, and sometimes even terrify. Public speaking is a skill that can transform nerves into a symphony of confidence, and today, we will explore the strategies to turn that symphony in your favor”

“In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and delivered his iconic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. The world listened, moved by his words and conviction. But behind that powerful moment lay hours of preparation, overcoming self-doubt, and channeling the fear that comes with speaking to thousands.”

HOW TO OVERCOME FEAR OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

The fear of public speaking, known as Glossophobia, is a common challenge. Many people dislike being on stage, fearing that they will collapse upon seeing the audience. However it is important to overcome this fear. The fear of public speaking often comes from an excessive concern for what others might think about our performance. We often worry about others opinions, neglecting our own. To change this, we should express our thoughts confidently. The initial steps is to relax and believe in ourselves. Confidence grows with exposure and comes with the opportunities. When you have developed a confidence in yourself and so you know the audience needs to hear what you have to say. If you have a fear of public speaking know exactly what you talk about and know why they need to hear it.

“TO SUCCEED IN LIFE, YOU NEED TWO THINGS: IGNORANCE AND CONFIDENCE” – MARK TWAIN

EVEN ACCOMPLISHED ENTREPRENEURS, POLITICAL LEADERS, BUSINESS LEADERS, CRICKETERS AND ACTORS HAVE DEALT WITH PUBLIC SPEAKING FEARS

HERE ARE 5 PROMINENT FIGURES WHO HAVE FACED THE FEAR OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

1. Elon Musk

“I WOULD LIKE TO DIE ON MARS. JUST NOT ON IMPACT”

ELON MUSK, CEO of SPACEX and TESLA, has admitted to experiencing anxiety when speaking in public. Elon musk said “I AM A BAD PUBLIC SPEAKER”. He has spoken about his initial discomfort with addressing large audiences and how he had to work on improving his communication skills over time. Despite his struggles, he has been able to present his ideas effectively and engage with the public, showcasing that with the practice and effort, one can overcome public speaking fears. It is a reminder that even those at top can struggle with this common fear.

2. RAHUL GANDHI

“POWER IS POISON”

RAHUL GANDHI, an Indian politician has also openly discussed his fear of public speaking. He has mentioned that he used to be hesitant nervous when speaking in public. Especially early in his political career. Rahul said “I KNOW I AM ON THE RIGHT PATH. I WILL CONTINUE TO RAISE INDIA’S VOICE”. Over time, he worked on building his confidence skills through his confidence and communication skills through experience and practice. Even prominent figures like him can overcome the fear of public speaking.

3. SHAH RUKH KHAN

“LOOSING IS NOT MY ENEMY; FEAR OF LOOSING IS MY ENEMY”

SHAH RUKH KHAN, a Bollywood actor, has talked about his fear of public speaking as well. He has shared that he used to feel nervous before addressing large audiences and would even forget his lines while speaking. Shah Rukh Khan said “I AM VERY SHY. IF I AM FLYING BRITISH AIRWAYS AND THE AIR HOSTESS ASKS ME TWO QUESTIONS, AND I DON’T UNDERSTAND HER ACCENT- I WILL GO HUNGRY FOR THE ENTIRE FLIGHT” However, he acknowledged that through practice and persistence, he managed to improve his public speaking skills over time. Even popular actors can face and conquer public speaking anxiety.

4. VIRAT KHOLI

“SELF-BELIEF AND HARDWORK WILL ALWAYS EARN YOU SUCCESS”

VIRAT KHOLI, the Indian cricketer and former caption, has mentioned that he used to be shy and reserved when he started his cricket career, which has also extended to his public speaking abilities. Virat said “I TAKE SUCCESS AND FAILURE IN THE SAME WAY, AND I AM A BIG BELIEVER IN DESTINY AND A BIG BELIEVER IN WHATEVER HAPPENS IS FOR THE GOOD” Over time, he worked on improving his communication skills and gaining confidence when speaking in public. This shows that even someone as prominent as Kholi can evolve in their public speaking capabilities.

5. DEEPIKA PADUKONE

“SOMETIMES THE JOURNEY IS MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN THE DESTINATION”

DEEPIKA PADUKONE, the Bollywood actress, has spoken about her fear of public speaking on various occasions, She has shared that she used to be extremely nervous and would often tremble while addressing a large audience.“I HAVE NEVER BEEN IN A HURRY TO PROVE ANYTHING” However, she worked on improving her public speaking skills through practice and experience. Even accomplished individuals can overcome their fears with effort.

OVERCOMING PUBLIC SPEAKING FEAR CAN BE ACHIEVED THROUGH A COMBINATION OF CONFIDENCE-BUILDING TECHNIQUES AND CONSISTENT PRACTICE

LEARN FROM EXPERIENCE: Each speaking opportunity is a chance to learn and grow. Embrace your experiences, whether they are successes or learning moments. Growing based on these experiences helps your skills improve more effective over time.

PREPARATION: Thoroughly prepare your content. The more knowledgeable you are about the topic, the more confident you will feel. Practice your speech multiple times to ensure you are comfortable with the material. (Research thoroughly, know your audience, choose a clear message, organize your content, work on delivery, body language and make notes)

ACCEPT IMPERFECTIONS: Remember that nobody is perfect. Even the most experienced speakers and prominent figures make mistakes. Embrace these imperfections as a part of learning process and focus on delivering messages. Small mistakes are normal and often go unnoticed by the audience.

JOIN PUBLIC SPEAKING EVENTS: Join clubs like Toastmasters, where you can practice speaking in a supportive environment and receive valuable feedback, it can be a great way to improve your Public Speaking Skills. (You can also join Our Events on weekends for Public Speaking, where various Public Speakers will come and address different topics)

PRACTICE IN FRONT OF A MIRROR: Practice in front of a mirror to observe the body language and expressions. This can improve your overall presentation. It can be incredibly beneficial for improving your public speaking skills. This self- assessment helps you identify areas for improvement and build more confidence in your delivery.

PRACTICE HUMOR: Humor can enlighten the atmosphere and laughter can ease tension, including your own. Sharing anecdotes or personal stories that connect with the message you deliver and evoke laughter. Good timing is mandatory for good humor, use humorous visual images to enhance your points.

ENGAGE WITH THE AUDIENCE: Interact with the audience by asking them questions and sharing relatable anecdotes. Engaging with audience can make you feel more connected and less anxious. Maintain eye contact with different sections of the audience. This creates a connection between you and the audience. (For example: gestures, call to action, respond to feedback, body language, acknowledge reactions)

In conclusion, overcoming public speaking fear is about building a tool of skills, strategies and positive habits. With patience and commitment to personal growth, individuals can transform your anxiety and fear into confidence and become impact public speakers.

“WITH CONFIDENCE, YOU HAVE WON BEFORE YOU HAVE STARTED”- MARCUS GARVEY