<p>Hey, guys. This is my first post on CC, and I just wanted to talk about my fear of public speaking. In my upcoming class, I'll have to speak at least one time every class period for a certain class so that I can maintain an A in that class. That said, I have a huge fear of talking out loud. When it comes to talking to individuals or even three of four people, I am usually the most confident of the bunch. Even when the Math teacher asks for an answer, I am very confident giving an answer. On the other hand, when it comes to discussing literature or presenting a speech in front of the class, I tend to get very nervous. Today, we were discussing our majors in a class of 20 or so, and I had literally choked when I said my major and something else. </p>
<p>Does anyone have the same problem as me? I'm smart, but when it comes to sharing my ideas, I always feel as though my ideas are always the worse.</p>
<p>Really, the best thing you can do is to learn to be an effective speaker. There’ s an organization called Toastmasters (<a href=“http://www”>www</a>. toastmasters.org) which is nearly free, open to everyone, and completely devoted to learning to become an effective public speaker–and have fun doing it. The meetings are held everywhere, almost every day of the week, and in the early morning, midday, and evenings. More than anything else, this is a great way to get over your fear of speaking by learning in a supportive situation with techniques that WILL result in your being at least a competent speaker. Most people who belong to TM for awhile actually become good speakers. Give it a try.</p>
<p>After reviewing my answer, it seems a bit contradicting. Maybe the reason why I’m not nervous when giving an answer in Math class is because there is a definite answer, and I feel as if I am right. In my literature class, I always feel wrong, and I honestly don’t know what I can say.</p>
<p>I took a speech class for people who have speech anxiety. I can say that people are more worried about themselves than other people. So in my experience even if you do think you gave a “dumb” answer people aren’t going to think of you differently. Not everyone thinks the same exact thing. </p>
<p>A lot of students feel that way. You might want to try some “creative visualization” about speaking in such settings, remember it’s not a big deal in term of the world’s problems (despite the real suffering your experience includes), and know that no one has every died from speaking in class. Not making light of this, but suggesting you try to use your mind to help you make it through. It’s going to be OK. Good to go talk to a campus psych counselor about this (again, lots of students do). Good luck!</p>
<p>Go to office hours and talk with your professor. It is likely he/ she may be willing to work with you to get you more comfortable with expressing your opinion publicly. It is a skill you need to learn because you will need it as an adult in the working world-- there you will not just be given a few numbers and be asked for " the answer."</p>