Key Ideas when Conquering Fear & Finding the Fun when Public Speaking
- Fear is Normal: Public speaking anxiety is a shared human experience.
- Mindset is Everything: Reframe anxiety as excitement and see that transform your experience.
- Fun is a Powerful Learning Tool: Enjoyment transforms public speaking from a fear to an opportunity.
- Personality Matters: Your unique voice is your greatest speaking asset.
- Practice Makes Progress: Consistent, enjoyable learning builds confidence and reduces fear.
Do You Feel Fear When You Think of Public Speaking?
Understanding the Fear
You’re Not Alone
Public speaking is the number one fear for most people. Statistically, people are more afraid of speaking in public than they are of death.
It’s a universal human reaction rooted in our evolutionary “lizard brain.” Once there to primarily protect us from being mauled to death by a beastly creature, now there to keep us safe from not sticking out, looking foolish, and dying on the inside!
The Inner Critic: Recognising and Overcoming Your Fear
Your inner critic is NOT you. It’s a protective mechanism that’s trying to keep you safe from potential embarrassment.
The key is to:
- Acknowledge the fear.
- Understand its origins.
- Gradually build confidence through supportive practice.
Reframing Your Mindset
Growth Mindset
People often think we’re born with fixed or innate confidence when it comes to speaking and that’s it, we either have it or we don’t. However, a growth mindset challenges this idea by recognising that communication skills are:
- Learnable
- Expandable
- Constantly Evolving
From Anxiety to Excitement
The human brain is complicated and fascinating. Scientifically, anxiety and excitement create nearly identical physiological responses e.g, increased heart rate, heightened awareness, a surge of adrenaline. The critical difference? Your mental interpretation of these sensations.
Neuroscientific research supports this approach. By deliberately shifting your narrative, you can change your brain’s response to your experience of speaking in front of others.
This isn’t about eliminating fear completely but about redirecting its energy for good. Find the fun!
Why is it Important to Have Fun When Public Speaking?
Embracing Your Authentic Self
Public speaking isn’t about becoming a different person, it’s about becoming the most confident version of yourself. The most compelling speakers aren’t those who are perfect, but those who seem relatable, passionate and genuine.
When you’re having fun:
- Your natural personality shines through, and your unique voice emerges.
- You connect more genuinely with your audience.
- You become more authentic.
The “inner critic” that typically holds you back becomes quieter, allowing your authentic communication style to take centre stage.
Think of public speaking as a conversation, not a performance. You’re not presenting to a critical jury but sharing ideas with fellow humans who fundamentally want you to succeed.
How Do You Make Public Speaking Fun?
Learning Strategies & Ideas
Interactive Games & Exercises
At Hoopla we have a wealth of games and activities that have been created or adapted to make public speaking fun. In fact, we have a whole course designed specifically to help reduce self-consciousness, improve storytelling and find your authentic voice – always with fun in mind! Take a look at our flagship public speaking course, SpeakersClub.
Plus! As a bonus, once enrolled, you’re entitled to try a Beginner’s Improv Taster Class on us! This session is jam-packed with improv exercises and games to compliment your Public Speaking journey.
Practical Steps
- Start Small: Begin with ‘low stakes’ speaking opportunities.
- Embrace Imperfection: Mistakes are part of the learning process.
- Take a Course: If you’re not sure where to start, courses give you structure, tools and guidance.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency builds confidence and helps overcome fear.
- Find Your Community: Surround yourself with supportive learners.
- Have a Laugh: Don’t take yourself too seriously. It’s ok to look or feel silly!
Why is fun Important in a Public Speaking Course?
If you’d like more details on our 6-week Public Speaking Course, here’s a handy link: Speakers Club!
Additional Resources
15 Fun & Effective Games to Improve Your Public Speaking by Effective Articulation
16 Benefits of Perfecting Your Public Speaking Skills by Indeed
Overcoming the Anxiety of Public Speaking
Contact us today to discuss how our expert teachers and coaches can help you become a more confident and compelling speaker.
Final Reminder: Embrace the fun and watch your confidence soar!