Have you ever had that moment of panic, sweaty palms, heart thumping wildly in your chest, knowing you’re the next one to speak? It could be a presentation in school, at work, even answering a question in front of a group. People are looking at you, judging you… For most of us at some point in our lives, speaking in public has felt like jumping off a high wall…
Many adults tell me their memories of being in school include the moments of dreading being called on or waiting for their turn to present in front of the class – and the fear of what would come out of their mouths. Clearly these feelings never subside for some people: consider the popularity of Toastmaster’s, courses on public speaking, and the newest trend of personal presentation coaches. Whether as a child or an adult, there are strategies that everyone can use for speaking in front of other people.
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