Do You Have a Fear Of Speaking In Public?

The most common phobia, that adults share more than any other phobia, is the fear of speaking in public. You might think that the fear of dying should be the most common, however if you search around, almost all sources state that people fear speaking in public more. Although there may be different reasons why each individual fears this, it almost always boils down to acceptance. We fear that we are going to embarrass ourselves right in front of everybody we know. For the most part it is an unreasonable fear, but it is a enormous one nevertheless.

I can attest that my daughter is nothing like me, because she has absolutely no fear of speaking in front of anybody. She can stroll right into a crowded room and put on a show for complete strangers without the slightest bit of hesitation. I recognize that she is only six years old, but I had developed my fear of speaking in public by the time I was her age. My fear is not too bad, but I have it. She may never have to deal with this fear, and I hope she never does. Having the ability to speak in public or to large groups of people is an excellent trait to have that will benefit anyone throughout their life.

Usually, one of the first times people have to face a fear of speaking in public is when they are in school. There are always moments when you have to address your class or make a presentation. If you're filled with fear, then speak with someone at the school (a teacher, friend, or counselor) so you can get some help with it. You'll usually find that once you get the ball rolling, your fear seems to disappear. However, this doesn't make taking that first step up in front of that large group of people any easier. Your peers may seem ominous, but they also realize what you are going through, because most of them have been in your shoes before. You'll find most people are polite and understanding.

You'll be able to get past your fear of speaking if you draw inspiration from the moments in school when you had no choice but to do it. You did not fall down and drop dead. That is something you should keep in mind. It may not prevent you from being nervous, but that's all right. Sometimes, our nerves will help us to do better anyway. If you were to speak in front of a group with absolutely no nervousness or no fear of speaking at all, you may be too relaxed and not do as good a job as you could have. Even if you do not mind speaking, keep in mind that you should try do your best.

Don't think, because you have a fear of speaking to groups, that you are all alone because your not. You are no different than anybody else, and this actually makes you part of the norm. There is always going to be some time in your life when you will have to do this, so your better off doing what you can to get over this now. There are some cases, when even telling a simple joke to a group of your friends that know you can be difficult. If you have this fear of speaking, then this is a good place to begin testing the water. You already know them and their your friend, so this makes a great place to begin to get over at least some of your fears.

Article by Diane Newman