Public Speaking will be the death of me...

Drivemycar · Newbie User Joined: Mar 30, 2008 Posts: 72

I know many of you shy guys and gals out there feel the same way! I have to do a presentation in school tomorrow. That's bad enough, but it becomes worse when the presentation is in FRENCH. Which I'm terrible at speaking! I was wondering what everyone else does to 'relieve' their anxiety before they must do public speaking in school or anywhere else. My teacher insists we do more of these presentations this term and I'm always petrified the day before, the day of and during the presentations. Anyone have any good techniques to make yourself not so nervous?

IcarusUnderWater2 · Intermediate User Joined: Mar 15, 2008 Posts: 198

I have one to do in a week aswell. aargh!!

My two best tips:

1) Learn your material

2) Volunteer to do it first (Everyone else will be nervous and worrying about their own presentation so won't really be paying attention to you)

Personally i find that having an energy drink (red bull or lucozade) just before class, makes it that bit easier to walk in to the classroom. I also find pumping myself up in private helps. Like shouting to relieve the built up tension just before you have to go in. I personally like shouting "COME ON!" just like andy roddick (tennis player) lol.

4seasons · Advanced User Joined: Apr 12, 2007 Posts: 370

The best part about a presentation is when its over, the fact that you got up and did it is the best feeling in the world.

_Brittany_ · Newbie User Joined: Apr 01, 2008 Posts: 86

Drivemycar · Newbie User Joined: Mar 30, 2008 Posts: 72

AlinaGirl · Newbie User Joined: Feb 11, 2008 Posts: 10 Location: USA

I think everyone is just concerned about their own presentation. They probably don't think about/remember ours nearly as much as we think they do!

But I understand, too. What helped me was focusing on the material, or the audience, and not thinking about myself. Then I feel much more confident. Pretend it's only acting and not real, and repeat words to yourself that help build confidence. You can fake confidence, with a little practice.

Drivemycar · Newbie User Joined: Mar 30, 2008 Posts: 72

I'm actually getting better at faking confidence...good timing because I've got ANOTHER oral presentation coming up in French. I really don't like me teacher Sad

harry · Newbie User Joined: May 09, 2008 Posts: 3

hey drivemycar.....
don't give damn what other thinks about you.be yourself.and practice before the mirror until you are confident enough to face the audience.even if you petrify,shiver no one gonna see your shaking hands.

you are the best...leave the rest