How can I manage anxiety before a public speaking event?

Answer 1

Public speaking is a very common catalyst for anxiety, but it does not need to define the performance of your presentation. Preparation, grounding, and mental reframing can help greatly.

Practice by one, creating an outline of three our four key talking points, depending on the time allotted to you. Then you can either rehearse it to yourself in the mirror, by recording, or asking a close friend or two to watch.

Grounding techniques like box breathing (to counts of 5) beforehand and then practicing breathing during the presentation will help you feel calm and regulated. It will also help your audience understand you clearly.

Finally reframing! The energy you are using to be anxious can be reframed as excitement. Positively visualize yourself succeeding and say something along the lines of "I am so excited for this public speaking event because I am going to make such a positive impact on my audience".

Answer 2

Managing public speaking anxiety involves both mental and physical preparation:

1. Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times.
2. Breathing Techniques: Use deep, slow breaths to reduce stress.
3. Positive Visualization: Picture yourself succeeding.
4. Preparation: Know your content thoroughly.
5. Grounding Techniques: Stay present using grounding exercises like clenching and releasing your fists.

These strategies will help you stay calm and focused.