Fear:

When we were children, it was much easier to become the 'star' of a small group of children. Even if you never had this kind of experience because you were shy, then worry not, now is the time for you to shine.

Were you the one who wanted to say something, but when asked simply could not speak because of fear, even as a child?

Our first 'bad' word is fear! We need to overcome fear of public speaking before we stand up and deliver.

We need to ask ourselves why we have fear of public speaking; what do we fear, and how do we simply not feel afraid?

Maybe we we do not want to appear foolish, stupid or incompetent to other people? It is only natural to feel this way, so do not be afraid to face these fears inside you. If you did not have these feelings of fear, you would not be natural.

Your right to speak:

Remember, you have a right to speak your mind about things that are important to you, your experiences and your passions, and just simply to 'have your say'. You have a contribution to make to society and are entitled to do so.

You really want to say something, are burning up inside but cannot let it out?

Hint 1: Scream in waves

Go to a private place and practice what you want to say [a bathroom is a good starting point]. Maybe you know a nice deserted beach where you can speak to the waves. You will not even be able to hear yourself and will have to shout to get your voice above the noise.

Telephone talk:

Now that you have prepared your speech, practice with your closest friends. One of my friends finds it easier to contact me by telephone and read her speeches or poems to me. That is a great way to start if you cannot face folk in person.

Face to face:

But, sorry, you do have to do this - you need to speak your words face to face with someone. Think about the people you know, the ones closest to you, and practice on them. Ask them not to make any comments but simply to listen to you. You will be surprised at their reaction and they will want to comment, but that is not what you want them to do, so disallow them.

Hint 2: Speak to a stranger:

If there is something on your mind about an issue, e.g., parenting, pollution, education, find someone at a shopping mall to speak to. Sit in one of the chairs provided and have a chat with someone who seems friendly. This will not only open up your mind to what you really think, but will encourage the other person.

The person will be encouraged by your friendliness as well and gain confidence in themselves, so you do a good turn for another human being as well as discovering your own strengths.

Discover what you really think:

One of the most important aspects of public speaking is to understand what 'you' think and one way to find out what you think, and to affirm yourself, is to speak your thoughts aloud. This really works for me and gives me the realization as to what I firmly believe - and even surprises me as to what I believe. When great words are spoken they strengthen our foundational beliefs.

Hint 3: Join like minded folk:

One of the greatest advances I found in my own life was joining a drama course. There I had the opportunity as part of the course to stand up in front of other actors. The benefits of building self-esteem and confidence in your own voice are immense and cannot be estimated. For example I went from someone who could not read a sheet of paper because of trembling knees, hands and voice, because of my fear of public speaking, to someone who three months later stood on a professional stage and delivered a profound speech [as part of a play].

It was something out of this world - really awesome. From those first trembling words I became a competent actor, producer and director of many plays.

Once you have gained the expertise, confidence and the words to say, simply go for it. Take the opportunity to speak in public when you can. The most important aspect of public speaking is to 'speak' when you can and when you must.

You are worthy:

Remember, do not be afraid because you are worthy and you have a right to say what you must.

I guess the most important aspect here is practice, practice and practice. What is the old adage: 'Practice makes perfect.' It is absolutely true when it comes to overcoming fear of public speaking.