TJ Walker says calming techniques won't fix public speaking anxiety. The real problem is lack of preparation. Once you know your material and how you come across to an audience, the fear goes away.
Most advice about fear or nervousness about public speaking starts with your feelings. Relax, breathe, visualize success. But let me ask you something. If you are terrified about walking naked through Times Square, would you want a therapist telling you to feel calm, or would you rather have clothes? Because the real problem wouldn't be anxiety. The real problem would be that you're not prepared. You're not dressed. Public speaking works the same way. Most people fear speaking because of two very simple uncertainties. First, they don't know how they actually come across when they speak. Second, they're afraid they might be boring, awkward, or embarrassing in front of others. Fear disappears when uncertainty disappears. Ultimize. Ultimize.
You're Not Being Judged on Your Work Yet: What New Hires Are Really Evaluated On
