Stage fright is a common fear that affects individuals from all walks of life. Whether you are preparing for a significant presentation at work or gearing up for a public event, speaking in front of an audience can be incredibly daunting. The good news is that, with the right strategies and guidance, anyone can tackle and overcome stage fright.

In this article, I'll share my personal story and reflect on it to introduce you to six simple steps to conquer stage fright.

This story takes us back to 2011, during my first year of college. At that time, I was just beginning to learn how to speak with people without hesitation, and I was experiencing some initial success. We had a group presentation in college, and our tutor asked us to prepare a topic on accounting standards. Buoyed by my newfound confidence, I began advising others on how to speak on stage without fear, conveniently forgetting that I had never given a public speech myself.

When the moment came for me to step onto the stage, I was confronted with a sea of expectant faces staring back at me. I froze. Somehow, I managed to complete my speech by reading directly from my notes, but I fumbled and stuttered through most of it.

After that day, I vowed never to engage in public speaking again. However, life had different plans for me. Today, not only have I become proficient in public speaking, but I also host a podcast where I discuss various aspects of communication and public speaking.

Reflecting on that experience, I often wonder what I could have done differently to deliver a better speech. Through these reflections, I have developed six essential steps for overcoming stage fright, which I will share with you in this article. These steps are designed to help anyone become a more confident and effective public speaker.

So here are the six steps to conquer stage fright:

1. Understanding the Fear

On that day, I kept telling myself I wasn't afraid. Instead, I should have gotten to the root of my fear. The first thing all of us should do is understand the root of our fear. Is it forgetting your lines? Stumbling over words? Or being judged by the audience? Identifying the specific fear can help us address it directly.

2. Preparation is Key

I always thought I could speak well because I knew the concept. It turns out I wasn't confident about the concept because I wasn't fully prepared. That's why I fumbled a lot. Practice your speech multiple times and make sure you know your content thoroughly. This will give you immense confidence. If possible, try to practice at the venue where you will speak; this will help you get comfortable with the environment.

3. Visualization

This is something I have been doing for a long time now. Whenever I have a seminar or workshop to conduct, I close my eyes and visualize how I will speak, being applauded by the audience, answering their questions, and receiving their feedback and compliments. This positive imagery helps reduce anxiety and build confidence.

4. Breathing Exercises

I remember that day very clearly. When I was on stage, I completed the speech, but my words were not clear because of my breathing. When we become anxious, our breathing becomes shallow and rapid. Practicing deep breathing exercises can help calm your nervous system. Before stepping on stage, take a few deep breaths through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. This will help slow your heart rate and relax your body.

5. Start Embracing Mistakes

During my first speech, I made one mistake and panicked. That was my biggest mistake. Remember, no one is perfect. Even the most experienced speakers make mistakes. If you stumble over a word or lose your place, don't panic. Take a deep breath, pause, and continue. Often, the audience won't even notice minor slip-ups. I wish I had known this earlier.

6. Seek Feedback

After your presentation, seek constructive feedback. Ask trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors for their honest opinions. Use their feedback to learn and grow. Over time, this will help you become a more confident and effective speaker.

Now, these are some tips I've learned from years of public speaking. However, if you believe your stage fright is severe and these strategies are not enough, seek professional help. Working with a coach can provide you with personalized techniques and support to overcome your fear. If you want to try one coach, you can always send me a DM on my Instagram. I will be happy to help you out.

In the end, I want to tell you that overcoming stage fright is a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. Remember, every great speaker started somewhere, and each experience is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Further if you want to know about how to practice public speaking at your home, you can always listen to my podcast covering that topic, below is the link to that

5 Ways to Practice Public Speaking at Home

And if you would like to connect with me, you can always DM me on my Instagram, or you can drop me a message on my LinkedIn

And if you want all the latest updates on the Podcast, do follow our Podcast's Instagram Page.

I will be waiting for your message and suggestions. Thank you reading this article, hope it adds value in your life.