SCENE: You’ve just been asked to speak in a presentation at work next week. On hearing this news, your Amygdala, who had been snoozing peacefully in a hammock, leaps up, recognizing this as a major THREAT and the need to PROTECT YOU from something unfamiliar and, by the sounds of it, extremely dangerous:

AMYGDALA: “Why are we sending ourselves to our own… [jumping to a horrible conclusion] DEATH?!”

YOU: “I have to, it’s for work.”

AMYGDALA: “We’re being FORCED to?! And you are willing to DIE for your work? I recommend you immediately abort! I recommend you back out! I recommend you wrap yourself in a duvet, lock the doors, and hide, never to emerge!”

Look, this Amygdala fellow is a little nervy. He doesn’t like being forced into unfamiliar action. So, part of your job in overcoming your public speaking anxiety is to convince this scaredy fellow that this is a GOOD idea and you truly WANT to do it.

But your reason for wanting to do it must be real, or it won’t be convincing. How can you find a way to truly want to do it, not just because you should? Why do you really want to do it? Really dig deep on this one (don’t lie to yourself!) because the answer to this question is fundamental to seeing the process through.

Here’s a good ‘why’:

Facing your fear head-on can reduce overall anxiety and make future public speaking engagements less intimidating.

Isn’t it horribly ironic how doing something that scares you ultimately makes it less scary? What a cruel joke. But it’s also an inescapable truth: fear only increases with avoidance. Does this ‘why’ resonate with you? If not, here are some other great reasons why you might truly WANT to face your public speaking anxiety:

  • Personal Growth: Confronting and overcoming your fear can lead to significant personal growth and increased self-confidence.
  • Influence and Impact: Your message can inspire, educate, and motivate others, making a positive impact on their lives.
  • Skill Development: Public speaking helps you develop important skills such as communication, persuasion, and critical thinking.
  • Networking Opportunities: Speaking at events can connect you with like-minded professionals and expand your network.
  • Sense of Achievement: Successfully completing a public speaking event can give you a strong sense of accomplishment and joy.
  • Career Advancement: Public speaking is a valuable skill that can enhance your career opportunities and make you stand out in your field.
  • Preventing Limitations: Not facing your fear can lead to a smaller, more restricted life. By tackling it, you prevent your world from shrinking.

Identify your personal, unique “why” and make it a genuine reason that really means something to you, so that next time your amygdala freaks out about public speaking, the conversation might go a little more like this:

AMYGDALA [freaking out]: Danger! Don’t don’t this! Anything could happen…you could… DIE!’

YOU [calm, confident, relaxed]: “It’s ok, I truly want to do this. I’m really excited about this challenge. I want to build my skills in public speaking and learn how to enjoy it. So relax, I’ve got this.”

That way, your Amygdala can get back in his hammock while you go out there and absolutely smash it.

Working with a coach will help you build tools and face your fear of public speaking, transforming your confidence. Why not book your free chat with me today receive your unique diagnostic and session plan to help you reach your goals?