Performance anxiety

[Abbypa]

I'm just unable to do public speaking. When I try my mind becomes black and start having palpitations and trembling. How can I overcome this? I'm recovered alcoholic and want to be able to spread substance abuse awareness in my community but can't due to my performance anxiety. It has been with me all my life.

[Thankfulforhelp22]

First of all, Hello and Good morning. I am not a public speaker and can't offer you great ideas about overcoming this. Here is what I do know. This is a common problem for so many people admittedly to varying degrees. There are likely a lot of resources on ways to deal with your problem. You will probably get some great input here.

Second, it is clear you have a noble goal in mind, and I commend you for it. You have something to offer and cannot let yourself be stopped. I really hope you find a way because you are needed.

God bless you and help you.

[Operalady in reply to Thankfulforhelp22]

I love your rely!!!

[Abbypa in reply to Operalady]

Thank you!

[Abbypa in reply to Thankfulforhelp22]

Thanks a lot 🙏

[012703060610]

I had stage fright at a young age but my parents really pushed me into way too many activities. I was always having to perform one way or another...sports, debate, theater, band ... you name it. I hated playing the piano and trumpet at the church I grew up with as well, but did so for my parents. I have a very technical degree but after college I realized that I was better suited to interact with people. I moved into a sales role and had to give a mock presentation to get the job. Long story short, it takes practice and patience with yourself. I first used to write a full script and practice in the mirror. Having the words right in front of you, can really be useful. Eventually you'll be able to get it to bullet points. Since you are survivor of so much and will have a passion to spread your message, eventually the words will just come. Most often public speaking on a topic is repetitive and therefore it gets easier as you go. Start small just practicing with yourself. Now when in front of a very large audience, I find I need the podium.

I no longer work due to health and have lost all of that confidence I built up over 20 plus years in my industry. I promise it is possible and you have such a genuine purpose for what you want to do. Go you!

[msgman]

Public Speaking is not for everybody.

Do look at the various resources that assist on developing public speaking skills; there are plenty of those in various platforms like Youtube, for example.

But if you ever do discover that public speaking is not for you then there are other ways of spreading and sharing your message.

I meet many people who give up their time to work and support various causes which means something to them, and they find their own enjoyable way to do that which brings fulfilment in supporting the cause and in a way they enjoy it.

[Abbypa in reply to msgman]

Thank you!