Do you ever freeze for a moment and disassociate slightly just before public speaking?

Answer 1

Absolutely! It's a common problem. You get up to speak and suddenly you feel like a deer in headlights! When that happens there are just two easy things you need to remember.

1) Breath! That buzzy feeling in your head or what your refer to as disassociating, is most likely because you literally have forgotten to breath, or you're hyperventilating and your're breathing too much. Either way your brain is telling you it needs oxygen. Take a deep breath, hold it in while you count to three and slowly exhale.

2) Give Thanks. There is always someone, somewhere who you can thank for something. Before worrying about launching into your speech give a shout out or two. Something like, "Hey, let's hear it for Angela for getting this room set up", or "Thanks to Tom for getting coffee for everyone this morning". Then lead everyone in some applause. While everyone is clapping it will give you a moment or two to collect yourself and think about what you're doing next. Also people love to be noticed for the things they do, even if those things are their job. It will make them feel good, and more inclined to help you in the future. And frankly, taking a moment to show some gratitude makes you look good, before you say a word of your speech.