How to Overcome Public Speaking Anxiety

Learning how to overcome public speaking anxiety is probably at the top of your mind if you are required to speak in front of others. It can really hold you back both personally and professionally if you are not able to speak to a large group of people! The good news is that it is possible to overcome this fear.

The first thing you need to do is understand why you have a public speaking anxiety in the first place. It's very common, so don't feel like you're alone in your fears at all. There is something about being in front of large crowds of people that makes us fear the worst about ourselves! We may come across as silly, say something wrong, or make another embarrassing mistake.


To start overcoming this problem, you're going to have to face your fears. The act of public speaking itself will help you overcome that fear over time. This sounds counter-intuitive, but it's common psychological practice to face your fears through the act of flooding and repetition because then it will no longer be scary for you. The consequences you feared would happen never actually do, so the anxiety comes about less frequently, and then eventually not at all.

It's truly best to study as much as you can about your public speaking anxiety. There are excellent strategies and methods out there that can help you banish this anxiety in no time. Learning how to overcome public speaking anxiety will truly be a great decision as you'll finally get to showcase your knowledge, passions, or hobbies to large groups of people. It seems scary now, but you WILL successfully get over this fear.

One of the best things you can do is practice. Get in the habit of giving little speeches in front of the mirror to yourself or even do it for your spouse or family. You might also join local groups like Toastmasters. Even if you just show up and watch, it will be a great help.