Chapter 2: Dealing with Nervousness Stage fright – Presentation anxiety – Speech anxiety – Nervousness Biggest problem faced by students in speech classes – People become afraid of their stage fright – Avoid talking about it Stage Fright Myths – Stage fright is abnormal. – Stage fright is always harmful. – Stage fright should be eliminated

Stage fright defined Stage fright is a normal state of anxiety and arousal; a combination of fear and excitement. – Typically occurs when facing a situation with an unpredictable outcome. – Can occur in presenting to an audience, job interviews, telephone calls, business meetings, etc.

Causes of Stage Fright Response to “fight or flight” – Body functions begin to run on pure emotions – Act now, think later You may experience fear for any number of reasons – Body interprets it as a physical threat – Mind no longer controls what the body does

Physical Symptoms Butterflies in the stomach Dry mouth Rapid breathing Trembling hands Weak knees Unsteady voice Perspiration What are some other symptoms?

What can you Do? Long-Term Treatments Understand your stage fright Talk about it Be realistic (situations and expectations) Develop a communication orientation Put things in perspective Gain experience Learn to relax Visualize your presentation Short-Term Treatments Be prepared Practice, Practice, Practice! Talk about what’s happening now Check out the room Burn excess energy Get enough sleep the night before

On-the-Spot Treatments Think about other things Pause before you speak Use energy while you talk Look for friendly faces

Learn to understand yourself!