Overcoming the Demons: Your 5-Step Plan to Conquer Speaking Fears.
Hello, everyone. This is Ubong Essien, CSP, and the Dean of the School of Eloquence.
The fear of public speaking is a universal demon, yet it is utterly conquerable. Following our educational framework, here is a five-step plan to systematically reduce its power:
- The Definitional Deconstruction: Start by understanding what public speaking truly is—it is structured, purposeful communication—and what it is not (it is not a performance or a popularity contest). By defining it clearly, you reduce its abstract power.
- Purpose-Driven Preparation: Your fear will diminish when your sense of purpose is larger than your anxiety. Focus intensely on your message and the value your audience will receive. The clarity of your purpose overrides the desire to self-protect.
- Master the Tools: Fear thrives on a feeling of helplessness. By mastering the three tools—face, voice, hands—you equip yourself with control. Confidence flows from competence.
- Structural Integrity: Never take the stage with unstructured content. A strong structure is a psychological safety net. Knowing exactly where you are and where you are going reduces the risk of getting lost, which is a major trigger for panic.
- The Practice Culture: Imbibe a relentless culture of practice. Practice reduces novelty and increases familiarity. The more familiar you are with your material and its structure, the less room there is for crippling fear to operate.
Conquer the demons of fear by subjecting them to the educated discipline of preparation and practice.
Stay in the loop
