Fearless Public Speaking Blog

Resources

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 05:47:46 GMT

Resources for overcoming your fear of Public Speaking.

Unreasonably Happy

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 04:50:10 GMT

This is a thought that just came to me as I was driving home this evening from volleyball.
I am unreasonably happy.
Now, some of you might be saying, "What does this have to do with fearless public speaking?" Thing is, I don't really know. Maybe nothing, maybe everything.
What I do know, is that when I am happy, unreasonably happy, things happen. Things come easily. Life becomes easy.
"Sure, easy for you to be so happy." some of you may be thinking.
The thing is, it isn't easy. It takes work. Not everything comes easily to me. There are times when things happen. Someone cuts me off while driving. I get a flat tire in the pouring rain. The kids are destroying the house, screaming, yelling and the phone is ringing off the hook. A speech doesn't go the way I planned it. Nobody laughs at my jokes!
During these moments, it is not easy to be happy. I just want to crawl into a hole and hide.
It takes work. Yet, what I find is if I allow external happenings to dictate how I feel, I am giving my power away. I am saying, "This outside force has the ability to determine how I am feeling." Thing is, I realize this and quickly, sometimes by faking it, (guys can fake it too,) remind myself that I am happy, no matter what.
Why are we scared to speak in public? Present a speech? Stand up and conduct a presentation? We're thinking about the other people. The people watching. The people in the audience. We are giving power, too much power, to them.
I think, and this may only be me, that if I am unreasonably happy, I wouldn't be worried what other people think of me. I wouldn't be worried if I make a mistake. I wouldn't be worried if I forget my lines. And if I'm not worried, then what do I have to be afraid of?
The reason we get 'stage fright' may be because we feel we have something to prove. We have to show we're good at something. Yet, if I'm happy, I have nothing to prove. I'm happy because I choose to be happy! "I'm happy and I'm going to give this speech. I'll do the best I can and if no one likes it, oh well.
If I forget my lines, oh well.
If I freeze in front of everyone, oh well. I'll probably just start laughing. Why? I'm unreasonably happy."
Does any of this make any sense? If it doesn't, then oh well. I'm still happy.
So, maybe this does have something to do with overcoming your fear of public speaking. Do it for awhile and see what happens. Be happy for no reason.
Remember, you are happy. Even if you don't think you are, just THINK you are. Eventually you'll start believing yourself. Then, just then, maybe your fear will go away.
And if it doesn't...oh well. Cheers.

The Perfect Holiday Gift

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:42:37 GMT

It's Site Sell's Holiday Gift Time.

Sitemap

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:35:23 GMT

Sitemap for Fearless Public Speaking

Learning to Overcome Fear

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 04:54:25 GMT

Learn how to face your fear and present to large audiences like the professionals.

Breathe

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:15:12 GMT

It has been a long time since I wrote a blog here. To those that follow my blog I apologize. Things have been busy. I've spoken in many contests and taken many courses over the last couple of years and what I've come to realize is that Breathing is the most important thing that you can do...especially when speaking. Ya, I know, we have to breathe or we die. Breathe or die. We don't have a choice. And that's really the truth. We could "die" on stage if we don't breathe. Breathing, taking a deep breath not only relaxes us, it gets us out of our heads. That is usually the place we are when speaking in front of people. We think, "Will I be funny? What can I say? Does this make sense? What if people think I'm stupid? What if I make a mistake?" Some or all of these thoughts may go through your mind just before or during a presentation in front of an audience. What a deep breath can do is get you to reconnect with the audience. Getting out of your head and focusing on the audience will bring out the real you. And that's what the audience wants to see. Don't think about yourself. You can do that after the speech. Think about the people you're speaking to or connecting with. They want you to do well. They want you to make them laugh, make them cry, entertain them, educate them. They are on your side. All they are waiting for is for the REAL you to show up. And when you do, you'll WOW them. So breathe, breathe, breathe. And let the real YOU shine!

Speak to One Person at a Time.

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 03:02:09 GMT

Most people fear speaking in public because they are anxious about speaking in front of many people. But the secret is, speak only to one person at a time. That's not to say don't speak to more than a one person audience. What I mean is speak as if you were talking to one person. It is said that Ronald Reagan, when he was speaking to an audience, imagined that he was speaking to a child, on a bed, who had just fallen off their bike. I don't know if this is true, but the point is this; it helped him to speak with humility. It caused him to focus on the other person, not on himself. And possibly, it was easier to speak to one person than 10 , 100 or 1000 people at a time. So, next time you have to speak, focus on one person at a time. Then move to the next and the next. Talk as if it were just you and them in the room. You'll connect with the audience more. They'll feel your authenticity. And you'll not have to worry about speaking to a large group. You'll only be speaking to one. Here's to your continued fearless public speaking. Cheers.

Knowing what you're talking about.

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 06:13:35 GMT

Hello. Did you know that the biggest fear of public speaking comes from the fear that you don't know what you're talking about? Yes! Most people fear getting in front of people because they think they, "don't know their stuff." The funny thing is that most of this fear is unfounded. Yes, most of us when we speak DO know what we are talking about. Or else we wouldn't be talking about it. If you speak with passion, something that you are passionate about and speak from the heart, it doesn't really matter what you are talking about. People will listen. They will hang on every word. They will follow your voice. Whether you are giving a sales presentation, leading a business meeting or competing in a contest, speaking with passion will endear your audience to you. The best way to overcome your fear of public speaking may be to find something that you are passionate about. Something that is close to your heart. And talk about it. You will find that the words will come effortlessly. And speaking from the heart is not something that you can fake. So, know that if you know your "stuff" nothing can stop you. The fear is all in your head. You can do it. Now, just do it. Cheers.

Stretch Yourself

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 05:46:56 GMT

I just finished competing in a speech contest and I had a lot of fun. I must say that at first I didn't want to compete. Why? Well it takes preparation, time and not to mention some pressure and nervousness. But, I can't begin to tell you the feeling once I had finished. You see, fear is not really real. We can't touch it. We can't see it. It is only in our heads. And 99 of the time, (maybe 100 for some,) what we were fearful of never really happens.) Mark Twain said it best; "I've had many problems in my life, some of which actually happened." Even after all these years of speaking, I still get my mind playing tricks on me. But I've learned not to listen to it. I've learned to remember the feeling of accomplishment once the speech is finished. Remember that feeling. Because before you speak, your mind will be saying, "What if!" What if this happens or that happens. And I've never had 'this' or 'that' happen. And each time you take one little step, make a speech, ask a question, do something to overcome your fear of public speaking, you are one step closer to succeeding. (Succeeding in overcoming your mind. Because that is where the real 'fear' is.) So when you get the chance to speak, don't say no. Take the challenge. Stretch yourself. Because if your not growing...your dieing. Here's to fearless public speaking. Cheers.

How to practise being nervous.

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 01:56:56 GMT

This idea was shared with me by a Toastmaster's colleague. If your heart starts to pound, you have shaky legs and feel out of breath when you speak, practise speaking when you are in this state. How? Well, one way is to run up a flight of stairs. When you get to the top and you are breathing heavy and your legs feel weak then start speaking or practise your speech. In this way, you are practising to be nervous. My basketball coach always stated to practise shooting foul shots at the end of a practise because you will be tired, hot and sweaty. And this is the state you will be in during a game when you take a foul shot. So, when speaking, you might as well emulate being in that 'nervous' state. Eventually, you will be so used to speaking when your heart is pounding that you will overcome your nervousness. It will just become second nature. Plus, you'll get in great shape practising your speeches. Happy running.

Tips on Visualization. Exercises to help you visualize your presentation.

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:20:22 GMT

Athletes do it. Surgeons do it. Musicians do it too. These visualization tips will help your Public Speaking.

About Us: The Author of Fearless Public Speaking.com

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:57:53 GMT

About Us: The author of www.fearless-publicspeaking.com.

Your Fear of Public Speaking can be Overcome.

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:14:09 GMT

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Here are some tips and ideas to overcoming your fears.

Public Speaking Quotes for everyone

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:09:27 GMT

Having a few quotations handy makes a presentation more enjoyable. Here are some public speaking quotes for everyone to use.

Public Speaking Topics. How to pick your topic and write with passion.

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:03:04 GMT

From orangutans to Haggis; How to pick Public Speaking topics that audiences want to hear.

Using Body Language to improve your Public Speaking.

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:58:26 GMT

Body language can account for up to 80 percent of communication. Follow these tips to confidently convey your message.

The importance of Public Speaking Skills

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:45:18 GMT

The Importance of Public Speaking skills can be realized everyday. From meetings to small talk, it is essential to get your point across confidently.

Jokes for Public Speaking and Presentations

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:39:48 GMT

Everyone wants to be funny while presenting. Here are some tips on creating Jokes for Public Speaking.

Fearless Public Speaking, Tips and Techniques for Great Presentations

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:21:56 GMT

One person's experiences overcoming the fear of Public Speaking. Rise above your phobia, anxiety and stress with great tips, techniques, games, jokes and ice breakers.

Turn that public speaking nervousness into positive energy.

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:35:06 GMT

Most people feel some anxiety when presenting to an audience. Take your public speaking nervousness and channel that energy into a great speech.

Relaxation techniques help your anxiety overcoming public speaking fears.

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:29:55 GMT

Feeling nervous before you present? These relaxation techniques will help calm your nerves before your public speaking event.

Sport Quotes

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:15:37 GMT

Sport quotes from some of the greats.

Speech Writing for Everyone.

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:22:16 GMT

Once you have chosen your speech topic, follow these simple steps to make your speech writing easy.

Golf Quotes

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:06:40 GMT

Here are a few Golf Quotes that hit too close to home.

Vision Boards can be used to visualize everything you desire.

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:26:41 GMT

What are vision boards and how can it be used to help your public speaking skills? Find out here.

Public Speaking for kids can be a wonderful experience.

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:35:24 GMT

Children all have some fears. Public speaking for kids is a wonderful way to help children overcome their fears. With encouragement and support most fears just fall away.

Public speaking exercises help you to relax and speak confidently.

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:21:14 GMT

It is important to stretch before playing sports. It is equally important to warm up prior to presenting. Use these public speaking exercises to relax and prepare yourself.

Political Quotes

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 19:40:44 GMT

Political Quotes about war, peace and the human condition.

Modern Day Quotes

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 19:24:15 GMT

Modern Day Quotes.

life quotes

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:30:47 GMT

Life Quotes for all of life's occations.

Contact Us

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 03:39:38 GMT

Feel free to contact us with comments or questions.

Inspirational Quotes

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 20:37:26 GMT

Inspirational quotes to motivate and inspire.

Humourous Quotes

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 20:00:28 GMT

Check out these humourous quotes for your public speaking needs.

Environmental Quotes

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 19:08:48 GMT

Environmental Quotes for an Amazing World.

Public Speaking Practice. This is the best tip for improving Public Speaking.

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 18:05:22 GMT

Preparation is the key to successful public speaking. These tips will make your public speaking practice effortless.

Effective business presentations can help your career.

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:15:32 GMT

Whether it is public speaking conferences, oral presentations or chairing a meeting, the following tips will help your business presentations to shine.

Presentation Tips. Arriving early is a great idea to help calm nerves.

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:08:50 GMT

By arriving early to your presentation you can relax knowing that should problems arise, youll be well prepared. These presentation tips are important for a successful event.

Memory Chunking Technique to help you memorize your speech.

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:17:34 GMT

Use this Memory Chunking technique to shrink the amount of words you need to memorize. Can be used for speeches, studying for exams, almost anything.

Summer Special is Here

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 20:31:26 GMT

Summer's here. The weather's great. Holidays are upon us. It's time to celebrate.

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Tips on Public Speaking. How to improve Your Public Speaking Skills.

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 20:45:17 GMT

Everyone always has a tip or two to share. Here are some tips on Public Speaking that will help raise your speaking ability to the next level.

Ask for Help.

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 17:05:28 GMT

This has taken awhile to learn. Actually, I thought I was fairly good at asking for help and delegating jobs. Turns out, I'm not as good as I thought I was.

I just finished organizing and chairing a Toastmaster's club level contest. I had people lined up to help on the big day. But what I forgot to do was get their assistance before the big day.

I didn't realize how much work was involved until I started to do it...
ALL OF IT!

Sometimes we are afraid to let go. Or maybe afraid to ask for help.

Don't be. Most people are willing to help. And if they're not, you can always find someone else.

But finding the right people may be difficult. Here are a few questions to ask that might make the search a little easier.

1. Would you be willing to take 'this' on?
2. Will you have it done by 'this' date?
3. Can I count on you to have it completed?
4. Will you call me, (or I call you,) on 'this' date to check in and make sure everything is clear and on time?

Ask these 4 questions and allow people to get into their own power. Let them take on the task. Allow them the self worth and self satisfaction that comes in completing a task and doing it well.

In the long run, it will make you and your 'team' happier. And it makes you a better leader as well.

And to my team, Thanks for the help!

A Valentine Special

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 04:56:07 GMT

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And Happy Valentine's Day.

Smile

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 04:29:59 GMT

Probably the best advice I could ever give you is this. SMILE.
Do it and do it often. Smile when you're happy. Smile when your not. For if you do, I'm sure it will make you happy.

Yes, it really is that simple. And this just isn't for when you are public speaking. This bit of advice should be used in all facets of your life.

Yes, this is a great suggestion for public speaking. Actions speak louder than words. And by smiling, you are telling someone that you like them. They in turn will warm up to you. What better way to start a speech than by smiling. But, it has to be genuine. You have to be thinking that you really do like them, or you are glad to meet them. For when you think about it, a few years, months or even days after you have given a speech, no one will remember the content of your speech, what you said, or the points that you made. But what they will remember is whether they liked you or not. And smiling is the first step.

So do this. For the next 7 days, smile as much and as often as you can. Even when you don't feel like smiling, do it. And see what happens. See how people respond to you. I bet you'll be amazed. ☺

Great Quote

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 05:12:14 GMT

Someone just sent me this great quote by Leonardo da Vinci.

Patience serves as a protection against wrongs as clothes do against cold.
For if you put on more clothes as the cold increases,
It will have no power to hurt you.
So in like manner you must grow in patience when you meet with great wrongs,
And they will then be powerless to vex your mind.

So, be patient in your quest for the perfect presentation or speech. You are perfect now, and you will only improve with practice.

Be patient with those that laugh at your mistakes or think, "You could never become a professional speaker." They only know what they know. No more. They don't know what you know. And it is what you believe in that counts. Have a great day. Nick

What I've been up to the last few months.

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 05:38:20 GMT

Hello, Have you ever wondered why some people seem to get rich easily, while others seem destined for a life of financial struggle?

New Year Goals

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 03:14:34 GMT

Well, the New Year is upon us. And I like many have a few goals. The first one is to add to this blog at least once a week. You see, the past few months since I started this I have been, well not consistent. It is funny how 'life' gets in the way. However, I wouldn't say it's getting in the way. The 'way' is life. And this is something that I sometimes forget. The past few months have been quite a ride. I've been to seminars, conferences, met many new people, all of which have impacted my life in some way. This I want to share with you. So, for the next few weeks I will be describing all that I have experienced. Hopefully, you will find this helpful on your own journey towards conquering your own fears. (Especially, Public Speaking.) I've met some excellent presenters and speakers and have learned some amazing techniques that I will share with you. So, I hope your holidays were amazing and I look forward to the best year of our lives. For when we open the book to 2008 all it's pages are blank. And we get to decide what goes onto those pages. Here's to all our new opportunities. Cheers.