1. Chapter 2: Dealing with Nervousness
Stage fright
Presentation anxiety
Speech anxiety
Nervousness
Biggest problem faced by students in speech classes
People become afraid of their stage fright
Avoid talking about it
Stage Fright Myths
Stage fright is abnormal.
Stage fright is always harmful.
Stage fright should be eliminated

2. Stage fright defined
Stage fright is a normal state of anxiety and arousal; a combination of fear and excitement.
Typically occurs when facing a situation with an unpredictable outcome.
Can occur in presenting to an audience, job interviews, telephone calls, business meetings, etc.

3. Causes of Stage Fright Response to “fight or flight”
Body functions begin to run on pure emotions
Act now, think later
You may experience fear for any number of reasons
Body interprets it as a physical threat
Mind no longer controls what the body does

4. Physical Symptoms Butterflies in the stomach Dry mouth Rapid breathing
Trembling hands
Weak knees
Unsteady voice
Perspiration
What are some other symptoms?

5. Short-Term Treatments
What can you Do?
Long-Term Treatments
Understand your stage fright
Talk about it
Be realistic (situations and expectations)
Develop a communication orientation
Put things in perspective
Gain experience
Learn to relax
Visualize your presentation
Short-Term Treatments
Be prepared
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Talk about what’s happening now
Check out the room
Burn excess energy
Get enough sleep the night before

6. On-the-Spot Treatments
Think about other things
Pause before you speak
Use energy while you talk
Look for friendly faces

7. Learn to understand yourself!