Public speaking is more than just a common fear. It is a powerful skill that opens doors.

Whether you are pitching an idea, leading a team, or simply expressing your thoughts, the ability to speak clearly and confidently in front of others can shape your personal and professional success.

Yet, for many, public speaking triggers everything from mild nerves to intense speech anxiety.

The good news? This fear is completely normal — and it can be managed. In fact, overcoming it is one of the most valuable steps you can take for your growth.

If you are afraid of public speaking, read this guide to find out what strategies can help you conquer it.

How to overcome the fear of public speaking

If you feel anxiety about public speaking, you are not the only one. In fact, 77% of people suffer from the same phobia.

Some physical symptoms of the fear of public speaking include:

• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Nausea and dizziness
• Feeling of panic at the thought of speaking in front of a group
• Shaking or trembling of a voice
• Stammer
• Weakened tone of voice

You can use proven strategies to tackle your fear. Continue reading to find out some of the helpful strategies that can help with your fear of public speaking.

Start with what you know best

Confidence starts with knowledge.

The more familiar you are with your topic — and the more passionate you are about it — the more naturally you will speak. If you lose your train of thought, your expertise will help you bounce back.

Anticipate a few questions the audience might ask, and prep your answers. Preparation is power.

Get organised early

Structure helps calm nerves. In fact, on average, public speakers spend 17.5 hours preparing their speech. The more time you spend practicing, the more confident you will feel.

So, plan your talk with care, including any slides, props, or visual aids. A simple outline on a notecard can keep you grounded.

If you can, visit the venue beforehand and test any equipment. Familiarity builds comfort.

Practice makes powerful

Rehearse often — and aloud.

Start with friends or family, then try presenting to people you are less familiar with. Record yourself and watch it back.

You will pick up on areas for improvement and grow more confident with each run-through.

Challenge your fears with facts

Fear often distorts reality.

Write down your specific worries. Then ask: how likely are they, really? What happened in past presentations?

You will probably realise that most fears do not materialise — and when small slip-ups do happen, they are not the end of the world.

Visualise success

Before you speak, imagine it going well. Picture yourself feeling calm and your audience engaged. Positive visualisation helps rewire your mindset and reduce anxiety.

Use your breath as a tool

Nerves often hit hardest right before you begin.

Deep, slow breathing helps calm your body and focus your mind. Take a few steady breaths before and during your presentation — it is simple but effective.

ocus on the message, not yourself

Your audience is there to hear what you have to say, not to judge your performance.

Most people will not even notice you feel nervous— and if they do, they will likely root for you. Stay focused on delivering value.

Embrace silence

If your mind goes blank, do not panic.

A brief pause feels longer to you than it does to your audience. Use it to breathe, regroup, and move forward. Silence can even add power to your points.

Celebrate every win

After you speak, take a moment to acknowledge your progress.

It does not need to be perfect — it just needs to happen. Reflect on what went well, and learn from any hiccups. Growth comes from experience.

According to Harvard University, celebrating small wins can help you with:

• Prioritising
• Organising, and
• Goal setting.

It is also proven to boost your self-confidence. So, do not forget to celebrate your victories, no matter how small they might seem.

For more tips, read our guide to effective public speaking.