Dealing with Stage Fright

The fear of public speaking or glossophobia is the single most feared entity, even more than death, darkness, heights or spiders. Cold feet, excessive sweating, a pounding heart, upset stomach as if you were being pulled into it and nervous breakdown are all commonly observed symptoms of stage fright. Every such person (which is 3 out of 4 persons in this world) wish they could be as flamboyant, with a bold demeanor and confidence as their friends, colleagues or relatives who are so articulate in their expressions even in front of a crowd. Some pessimists think that there is absolutely no need to even try how to get over a stage fright.

Relieving Stage Fright

The biggest fact you need to understand is even the most excellent orator or the person whom you wish to speak like, is also nervous, maybe as nervous as yourself. This may sound a bit ironical, but if you happen to talk to a willing person who is well-versed with public speaking techniques, he will reveal that most of the time, even he is scared. So, what is it that distinguishes you from such a people?

Learn to accept your natural instincts, yet focus on the task at hand. Great speakers are nervous too, if not they cannot be classified as humans, but only bodies! It is the will power, positive thinking and the passion to get your point across to the audience, what drives a good speaker, to get over his fear. So, one of the assured way of dealing with stage fright is, to marginalize the natural reactions of your body by simply focusing on your will to convey your part. For, example if you are about to deliver a presentation in front of your boss and some top notch people, it is human and completely normal to be nervous. However, if you are determined to make the presentation a success such that every word that you speak comes right from the bottom of your heart, there is no scope for social anxiety, to reign the thought process in your mind.

There are some wonderful techniques which aid in achieving a state of peace to deliver your best.

• Concentrate on your breathing, which should be deep and slow. It can work wonders on stabilizing the thinking process. Even on being nervous, make your bodily actions more sturdy and positive. If you are sitting and waiting for your turn to face the crowd, sit with an upright posture, tall, with a gentle smile playing on your lips. It does take some effort to do that, but make it happen, even if forced. Such positive body movements will definitely boost your desire to deliver a good talk.
• Nothing works on the senses as the calming brought about by some humor. Be in the present, in your thoughts and look for humor in surrounding atmosphere. Some good speakers, think of their evaluators in a debate or elocution competitions as donkeys or monkeys with human appearance. Although, this may seem to be immodest, try it and you will instantly feel a calming effect.
• Create positive mental images of the task you are about to perform. If you are performing a dance, imagine being in the most gracious of moves, enjoying every step as you perform. If you are about to speak in front of a packed hall, imagine a thunderous applause across wade across the hall in appreciation of your talk. This will make you get the desired effect in reality, with the same result as imagined.
• Some people listen to soft music, which too can be a good technique to relax your mind. Make an effort to stay calm and silent and not get into much of discussions and involving conversations, 30-40 minutes before your performance or presentation. This may divert your focus from your task.
• Be honest with your preparation and work. Most people try to evade under preparation by stage fright excuse. Learn to shoulder your share of responsibilities. If you prepare and rehearse well, the effort is bound to produce positive results.

The ability to deliver a nice speech or a rousing performance like a play, dance or some trick in front of people is one of the most satisfying feelings on earth. It can have the most positive implications on your personal and professional life. Social acceptability and your share of fame is most prized appreciation for many celebrities and stars. Therefore, a little effort with a lot of will power, will make you a star in your own way.