Why is Public Speaking so Stressful?

According to surveys, public speaking is many people’s number one fear. Second is death. This means an average person is more afraid to give a presentation then die. So what are some factors that make public speaking so stressful?

Fear of public speaking is not really related to the quality of the speech, but how the speaker feels or acts while speaking in public. When one is in fear, the nervous system responses because when confronted with a threat, our bodies prepare for battle. This interferes with one’s ability to perform and prevents people from putting themselves into public speaking situations. Some researches also believe that people who experience higher anxiety are more prone to be stressed about public speaking as well.

Another factor that causes fear of public speaking is their thoughts about themselves as speakers. Talking to a group of friends is easy, but when one needs to give speeches, it suddenly gets stressful and nerve-racking. People tend to raise the stakes when public speaking. They get afraid their image will get ruined and people will judge them. Negative thoughts, like “I’m a bad public speaker” can also increase fear of public speaking.

How do AISG students feel about public speaking? According to sophomore, Andy H., “Overall, public speaking is very stressful. Although I convince myself it’s okay, once I’m on the spot in front of everyone, I get nervous and stutter. For example, I’ll prepare for a speech and feel ready, but while presenting, I’ll have a mental breakdown and forget my speech.” On the hand, sophomore, Josh H. is more comfortable than others with public speaking. He stated that “Public speaking can be scary at times. For example, if I don’t have time and I have to improvise, public speaking can be very nerve-racking. However, if I get time to prepare, I trust and don’t doubt myself, so I don’t get nervous.”

AISG students tend to be more uncomfortable with public speaking, Mrs. Barga believes, since “some of the cultures our students come from don’t always encourage students to speak up frequently. Also, many students don’t put themselves out as much as they could in public speaking.” Don’t worry, it’s still possible to overcome this fear. Many of you might believe it’s impossible to get rid of those nerves, but it’s not. It may be hard, but it’s possible. Mrs. Barga like all teachers has to talk in front of a class all the time. She believes that one can improve public speaking by, “forcing yourself into situations where you have to speak more. Also, for students, if you can give yourselves a couple of over practicing and overpreparing situations where things go well, then it will start being easier.”

Mrs. Barga stated, “People should recognize how useful good public speaking skills are later in one’s life; in so many professions, in college, even in making friends and interpersonal relationships.” Professions such as management, law, reporters, managers and many more require good public speaking skills. Don’t worry, it’s not too late. I encourage all of you to try to start developing your public speaking skills because it will be beneficial for your future. Joining a club like the debate team and MUN is a great way to start improving your public speaking. Failure is part of success.

For more information visit, psychologytoday.com, www.anxietycoach.com