<p>How can you be successful in speech class if you are terrified of public speaking?</p>
<p>Everyone has different ways of handling different fears or anxieties. I was always very anxious when I had to speak in front of people or around people, and to be honest, the only way to really handle it is to just do it. The more I did it, the more accustomed I got to it and you start to develop ways to deal with it. For me, it was a very “fake it until you make it” situation. If you act confident or try to convince yourself that you know what you’re doing, you might be able to portray yourself confidently even if you don’t actually feel it. With time and practice, it’ll get easier.</p>
<p>I know some people who find being really familiar with the topic or the speech to be reassuring. Practicing in front of friends might be helpful so that you can get used to speaking in front of people. Ask them to let you know about any nervous ticks you may have or remind you to make eye contact and things like that.</p>
<p>Also, in a speech class, you may be graded on the speech itself as well as the delivery of it. If you’re concerned about your grade, writing very good speeches may be helpful to make up for a nervous performance.</p>
<p>Do not avoid giving speeches though, by all means. It’s really easy to do when you’re afraid of public speaking but in the long run, it’ll just make it harder when you do have to give a speech.</p>
<p>Also: talk to the teacher privately about your fears, and see if s/he has any tips. Practice a lot, including by yourself out loud (not just in your head) because the more you say the words out loud, the more comfortable you will feel with it. Pick one person out in the group to ‘speak to’ while delivering and/or focus on the teacher. Know that the more speeches you give, the easier it will become. I had a student once who could not even finish a speech, and by the end of the semester, her speeches in class were so good that we all had tears in our eyes. She came a long way. If you have any recording devices you could tape yourself running through the speech, too, and listen to it, record again, etcetera. Also, ask the teacher if you can use an overhead outline or have a note card with key items/an outline to keep you on task as you deliver the speech if you are afraid you will forget what to say. And, finally… talk to the others in class. You may find allies who feel just like you and you can cheer each other on as you practice/gain confidence. Good luck! Know that you are not alone in these feelings. :)</p>
<p>What helps me is if I look right at my professor while I’m speaking. It makes me feel like I’m only talking to her. But try not to look at your professor the entire time. Look down at your notes for a couple seconds. Do a brief scan around the classroom.Then look back at your professor. I’m terrible at this. It makes me want to vomit lol. I’m also a shy person so that doesn’t help at all.</p>
<p>Pretty much the whole point of Speech 101 is to get you past the fear of public speaking. More people in this country are afraid of public speaking than are afraid of dying.</p>
<p>Watch the movie “The King’s Speech” - if he could do it, so can you!</p>