Took a public speaking class this semester, and even though I was terrified at first, I feel awesome about my skills now!!! Yayyyyy!! 2 weeks ago

When you feel uncomfortable, that is when you are experiencing something new to you. Instead of shying away from it, run through that wall you put up in your mind like a freight train. Get out there and take action to achieve your goal and speak in public settings more often. You have to envision yourself being a good speaker, and “fake it, until you become it”!! 3 weeks ago

Gave a presentation and my nerves were less than half of what they used to be. :) 13 months ago

My colleague, Nancy, has proposed I accompany her to a toastmaster meeting. I’m not ready to take the leap just yet, but this may just be the opportunity I need to get over my fear. 22 months ago

Public speaking is not so much of a fear for me anymore—and TRUUUUUST ME…it used to be a fear.

I allowed this fear to control over my life. It was such an embarrassing weakness and I used to feel like the only one with this problem. I was the one that prevented myself from trying to tackle this problem face-to-face before. It weakened me so much that I would skip class on the days of presentations. I’d try to make up any kind excuse (to both others and myself) just to avoid public speaking. I even sacrificed getting a lower grade just to avoid potential embarrassment in public.

But…

Gradually…

And little by little…

I’ve begun to just go up in front of everybody and just…well…stick it out and give it my best shot. I still get nervous a whole lot every now and then…but now, at the end of my presentations, I’m so proud of myself for moving one step closer towards getting entirely comfortable talking in front of a big group.

Just have to always remind myself to breathe—breathe and smile. =D 22 months ago