Art of public speaking

Shenali Boteju

Each and every individual in this world has their own uniqueness when it comes to their abilities, referred to as a blueprint. No two persons could have the same blueprint. It is important to remember that we are all unique in what we are. This means that we have the ability to do thing better or perhaps do things differently from others.

But the problem lies in the fact that we sometimes try to adapt to another's blue print. Which most definitely will not work, since a blue print will function for only one individual. We tend to forget our own uniqueness while trying to compare others strengths.

This is a grave mistake, as that would lead to a feeling of inadequacy and insecurity. While trying to gain something by studying what another is successful in, we don't focus on what we are capable of ourselves. This eventually brings in the 'Fear Factor'. Struck by fear, people forget who they are.

Did you know that we were born with only two types of fears? The rest is what we learnt as we grew up. Those two types are the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. Which just goes to show why infants respond to calm, soothing noises.

However, there is one fear that rings as the most powerful among most people - public speaking. Researches show that for some reason, people in general tremble at the thought of speaking to a large audience. But public speaking is not all that bad. Yes it can be scary, but it is only anxiety.

To get over the fear of public speaking, we just have to follow a few easy steps. First you should be passionate about what you speak. If you genuinely feel that the information that you are conveying will be of importance to others, then you will feel more inclined to speak out.

Secondly, though it might not be easy at first, try to be a little perky. It helps you when you do not feel that confident and buys you time to build up your stamina.

If you show your fear, the audience will begin to sympathise with you and you will leave them feeling tense. Next, get the audience involved. Shoot a few questions at them. Make eye contact with a few. That way, they will have to pay attention to you. Finally, master the 'I don't care' attitude. It does not help if you start worrying about what your audience might be thinking. It could cripple your momentum. Just keep in mind that it is not the end of the world if things do not go that smoothly. You will actually do a better job if you focus only on what you are saying.

In the end smile at your audience and you will feel a whole lot better when you find them smiling back at you. And if you know what is right, do not say 'thank you', because it is the audience who should thank you for a job well done.