Overcoming Anxiety in Public Speaking

What is a common instinct people have when they feel anxious?

• To embrace the feeling

• To share the feeling with others

• To ignore the feeling completely

• To suppress or push down the feeling

According to the speaker, why might someone feel nervous before speaking publicly?

• Because they care about their relationships and performance

• Because they dislike public speaking

• Because they are afraid of making mistakes

• Because they are unprepared

How can acknowledging your nervousness help during a presentation?

• It lets others know you are unprepared

• It dissolves awkwardness and shows self-awareness

• It makes you more anxious

• It distracts the audience

What is one breathing technique mentioned to help reduce anxiety?

• Breathing in for a count of five and out for a count of five

• Breathing rapidly to increase oxygen

• Holding your breath for as long as possible

• Breathing in for a count of three, holding, and exhaling for a count of six

What is a suggested method to ground yourself and reduce anxiety?

• Closing your eyes and imagining a calm place

• Shifting your weight and noticing sensations in your feet

• Listening to music

• Focusing on your heartbeat