Stage Fright: A hidden strength, not a weakness, by Maryam Rabiu
Stage fright! Ohh that sinking feeling, the racing heart, the trembling hands. All symptoms of a mind overwhelmed by the pressure to perform.
I have experienced situations where I become numb and lose focus on what I’m supposed to say. Along with this disorientation, I can feel the heat rising in my body, and before I know it, I’m sweating profusely from sheer anxiety.
But here’s the truth; stage fright is not a weakness. It’s proof that we care, that we want to do well. The key is not eliminating the fear but learning to control it.
The first step to overcoming stage fright is preparation. Nothing quells anxiety like knowing your material inside out. Practice breeds confidence, turning fear into familiarity. The second step is to shift your mindset, rather than viewing the audience as judges, see them as supporters. Most people want you to succeed, they admire your courage just for standing there.
Stage fright may never completely vanish, but it can be tamed. And when you learn to work with it, rather than against it, you might just find that the stage isn’t so frightening after all.
Studies show that posture influences mood, so a strong stance can make you feel more in control.
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Instead of worrying about how you appear to the audience, concentrate on delivering your message.
Also, practicing in front of friends or family in a low pressure setting before the actual event can build comfort and familiarity with public speaking.
It’s very okay to be nervous when speaking. I mean, it’s not something you can control easily but when nervous, it’s easy to rush. However, slowing down and inserting deliberate pauses not only helps regulate your breathing but also makes your words more impactful.
Everyone experiences some form of stage fright, but with the right approach, it can be controlled and even used to enhance performance.
Many renowned public speakers have used various techniques to overcome stage fright and deliver powerful speeches.
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Barack Obama, the former U.S. president known for his calm and confident speeches revealed how he battled with stage fright but he reportedly uses deep breathing techniques and deliberate pacing to maintain, control and engage his audience effectively.
Oh! what about Oprah Winfrey? Despite being a media powerhouse, Oprah has spoken about experiencing nervousness before major speeches. According to her, she uses visualization techniques, imagining a successful delivery to boost her confidence.
The late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs who was famous for his compelling presentations also revealed that he practiced relentlessly, ensuring he knew his speech well which helped him appear effortless and confident on stage.
And finally, Emma Watson. The actress and activist who became popular through her role in the Harry Potter series admitted to feeling nervous before delivering her famous UN speech on gender equality.
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These examples show that even the most successful speakers have faced stage fright, but with preparation and the right techniques, they turned their anxiety into confidence.
Improving public speaking skills can bring a wealth of personal and professional benefits, including:
Firstly, the ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively fosters self assurance in various situations, from meetings to social gatherings.
Secondly, Public speaking enhances everyday interactions by teaching better listening and response techniques, making conversations more engaging.
Additionally, Preparing and delivering speeches sharpens analytical skills, helping speakers structure thoughts logically and compellingly.
Over time, practicing public speaking lessens the fear of being put on the spot, making interactions more natural and comfortable.
Effective speakers command attention and respect, making them natural leaders in both professional and personal settings.
Finally, strong public speaking skills enable clear and impactful teaching.
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Public speaking isn’t just about presenting on stage, it’s about having the confidence to share ideas in any setting.
Experiencing stage fright is normal. Nothing is wrong with you. With consistent practice, you can overcome it. Remember that this feeling doesn’t indicate any inherent flaw in your abilities or character. It’s simply a natural response to being in the spotlight.
Let me remind you once more, countless performers have faced this challenge and learned to embrace it as part of their journey.
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