When you have to speak in public does your mouth get dry, your palms sweaty, knees get weak? Most of us do when we have to address even the smallest gathering. We do our best to avoid this most stressful exercise; but this may not be possible always. Public speaking is inevitable, if you want to accomplish certain tasks or make your presence known and be successful in life.

The key to overcoming this fear is to recognize what makes you nervous. We are afraid of making a fool of ourselves in front of an audience. We take one look at other seasoned speakers and conclude, “I can never be that smart”. The truth is we don’t need to be outstanding to be a successful speaker.

If you have a fair idea of what you want to say, say it to the audience in a simple and sensible way. Get your point across by dividing the topic into two to three major points and embellish a little on each point. Rehearse the speech well in advance and practice it in front of your family and friends.

Make sure you have a hard copy of the speech in front of you. Even the best of us forget what we were or want to say. A backup gives confidence as do index cards with important points bulleted.

Remember to be yourself while giving the speech. Use your normal body language and disposition. Trying to be a bit jovial if you have a serious, but not heartbreaking, countenance. The audience is generally kind and will listen even if the speaker is moderately good

Imagining making the most inspiring speech can be a great motivator. Experiment with a small audience with a rehearsed speech. Impromptu speeches will come later.