How to Beat Anxiety About Speaking

culled from:wikihow.com

Beating Anxiety About Speaking

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   Be aware that most people suffer at some level or another.

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   Take your time when you speak. Trying to rush will make you tongue tied. A slow flow has a soporific effect, while a rate too fast stress the audience who can not understand what you are trying to say. A good flow passes between 120 and 150 words per minute. If you want to get to the bottom, take a stopwatch to measure it. If you arrive less than 100, your speed is too slow. If you exceed the 160, slow down.
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   Make sure you remember to breathe. Concern contract the abdominal muscles, bladder, throat... A limitation of air intakes and a lack of oxygen can change your voice dramatically. Deep breathing increases oxygen your lungs and brain, which promotes relaxation. Whenever there is stress, consider taking a deep breath and reconnect with your body.
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   Be knowledgeable about your topic. It doesn't matter if it's an informal conversation or a presentation, if you know what you're talking about you'll feel confident.
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   Open your mouth so that the sound can get out.
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   Pause between each new thought.
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   If you find yourself saying 'um' or 'er' too often, try thinking them instead.