Can there be any greater fear than the fear of public speaking?

And the crazy thing about this fear of public speaking is that very few of us ever get to do any speaking in public. Just the thought of our deepest fear is enough, it seems, to mean that we will do almost anything to avoid facing our fear of public speaking!

But why is this, exactly?

What is there to fear about talking in front of people?

It's not as if public speaking puts your life in danger or anything, after all!

Well, this is another of those learned fears, believe it or not. (Only fear of abandonment, fear of falling, and fear of loud noises are innate fears, by the way). So, yes, fear of public speaking is a learned fear. We have learned to place a value on what others think of us - so much so that to appear nervous, unsure or inept in front of others is our ultimate fear.

That's the bad news. The good news is that this fear of public speaking can be overcome. And all it takes is a little bit of know-how and a lot of practice, practice, practice. Then giving a 5-minute speech or a 30-minute presentation can actually feel exhilarating and very satisfying, rather than terrifying.

This transformation from terrified to exhilarated is possible, but it has to begin with you taking the first step. You have to admit to yourself that you have this fear of public speaking, and then you have to take action. And the kind of action you have to take is as follows:

a) Learn how to improve your public speaking skills by taking a public speaking course. You may find public speaking courses at local schools or colleges, or locate public speaking trainers online.

b) Practice your public speaking skills over and over and over. Talk in front of your friends, your family or even your work colleagues. Take yourself seriously, and be as professional as possible. And put into practice what you learned in your public speaking course.

c) And, finally, make that public speech! (Go to your local Toastmasters if you don't have a real reason to speak in public.) Part of speaking in public is being prepared, so make sure you have water nearby, in case you get a dry throat, and also make sure that you've rehearsed the opening few minutes of your speech REALLY well, so you don't need any notes. (You should rehearse the whole speech several times also.)

Overcoming the fear of public speaking really is that simple.

I did it, and so can you. (This is one of those rare occasions when 'I did it and so can you' really does apply.)

Fear of public speaking is a learned fear. Unlearn this fear of public speaking by learning how to speak in public, by preparing yourself to speak in public and then by speaking in public. And always remember...

"Fear is a habit; so is self-pity, defeat, anxiety, despair, hopelessness and resignation. You can eliminate all of these negative habits with two simple resolves: I can!! and I will!!" -- Unknown