Public Speaking Woes — Delilah’s Dilemma

Almost everyone seems to have the fear of getting up in front of a crowd.

This is the kind of dilemma a loyal listener of Delilah was trying to overcome when preparing to do a group presentation for class.

Dear Delilah,
I'm a high school student who needs a prayer and some advice.On Friday, I'm doing a group presentation and I have lines that need to be memorized. I have always had issues with public speaking. No matter how many times I'm faced with this kind of situation, I'm incredibly nervous. Lately, it's been keeping me up at night and I get panicked. Whenever I do speak in front of crowds, I choke up and I get the urge to freeze up because my nerves take over. I need some advice on how to calm myself during my presentation. Thanks so much, Anonymous Student
Dear Nervous Speaker,
Everything you just described to me about your reactions to public speaking is anxiety taking over your body and your mind. A lot of people suffer from this kind of phobia and anxiety when they're called to speak in front of crowds. You may not ever be able to conquer this fear but you have to figure out how to breathe deep, face the fear, and do it anyway. You have to know and tell yourself you're going to get thru it and come away stronger for being pushed out of your comfort zone. You have to make up your mind the anxiety will not win you over. And realize this is not something you have to do every day; it's a one-time, maybe few-time thing in your life unless you take a job that puts you in the spotlight, which I'm guessing is not on your career path. Get thru it and look forward to the intense relief that comes right after. Good luck! Delilah

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