PERFORMANCE ANXIETY

Speaking in public or giving some other kind or public performance is an extremely common fear. For many people, it is the number 1 fear on their list, fearing it more than death itself!

The need to give presentations appears to be becoming more and more a fact of life. I have clients from a variety of management levels, researchers as well as university students who are required to give presentations on a regular basis. This fear doesn't just apply to giving presentations however. For some, even having to speak in meetings on an ad hoc basis can fill them with apprehension.

Some people will go to enormous lengths to avoid speaking to any kind of audience, and will pass up on the chance of promotion because of it. Very often, the anxiety starts to build up days before the event is to occur, and assiduous and often excessive preparation is undertaken.

The sorts of worries you have may include; being ridiculed, tripping up on words, going blank, blushing, and being found wanting in some way.

It doesn't have to be like this. There are those who have gone from abject terror to actually enjoying this activity and, as you can imagine, the good feeling one has about oneself once these fears are overcome, can be tremendous.

As a member of a public speaking group, I have a particular interest in helping people get over this fear and even going on to enjoy it.

"I just wanted to say thank you very much for all your help. You really have helped me develop a very positive outlook on life. I'm feeling much more confident in myself and although I haven't had any presentations recently, I don't feel anxious at the thought of giving a talk. Thank you again."  Andrea C, London

Find out more about hypnotherapy and public speaking here: