Today, I want to talk to you about a specific skill.

It’s something we all encounter, but few of us feel truly comfortable with. Yet, it’s one of the most powerful tools you can have in your personal and professional life.
Especially if you aspire to be a leader—a professional who is liked, respected, and even admired.
What is it?
Public speaking.

Now, when most people hear “public speaking,” they picture a politician at a podium, delivering a well-rehearsed speech. But public speaking isn’t just for world leaders.
Have you ever spoken up in a team meeting and shared an idea? That’s public speaking.
Have you ever raised a toast at a family dinner? Public speaking.
Given a speech at a wedding? Definitely public speaking.
And, of course, job interviews? Yep, that’s public speaking too.
My point? Whether in your career or your personal life, there will come a time when you need to stand up, speak out, and be heard.
And when that moment comes, wouldn’t it be incredible to feel confident instead of nervous?

Public Speaking Anxiety: You’re Not Alone
If you’ve ever felt your heart race before speaking, you’re in good company. Even seasoned professionals experience this. Prince Harry once admitted:
"I get incredibly nervous before public speaking, no matter how big the crowd or the audience."
Nerves are normal. The key is learning how to manage them so they don’t manage you.

Simple Fixes for Public Speaking Nerves
Here are some quick techniques to regain composure:
???? Butterflies and an upset stomach? Stick to bland foods like bananas or bagels before speaking, and drink room-temperature water.
???? Heart racing and breathing too fast? Try deep breathing: inhale for four counts, hold, then exhale for five counts. Repeat.
???? Face turning red? You can’t stop blushing, but you can avoid wearing red orange, which amplify it. Stick to blues or greens.
???? Hands shaking? Avoid holding notes—use a lectern or projected slides instead.
???? Voice quivering? Speak louder. A strong voice naturally reduces wavering.

These are great for calming nerves in the moment. But what if you didn’t need them at all?

The Secret to Public Speaking Confidence
There’s a reason experienced speakers don’t get rattled by an audience’s stares: they’ve seen it before.
They’ve built their confidence through exposure—whether that’s speaking up in meetings, joining a group like Toastmasters, or simply practicing out loud.
The best way to get comfortable with public speaking? Start small and build up.
Speak up at work more often.
Offer to give a toast at a family gathering.
Record yourself practicing a speech and play it back.
The more you do it, the easier it gets.

Pro Tips for Mastering Public Speaking
Christine Clapp, author of A Guide to Public Speaking in Professional Contexts, shares practical strategies for improving over time.

Long-Term Public Speaking Growth
✅ Take every opportunity to speak and get feedback—at work, in class, or through organizations like Toastmasters International.
✅ Use everyday interactions as practice. If you tend to speak softly, try confidently ordering at a café. If you overuse “ums” and “ahs,” work on eliminating them in casual conversations.
Preparing for an Upcoming Presentation
✅ Block out time on your calendar to craft and rehearse your speech—about a month for a major talk, a week for a short one.
✅ Practice at least six times. Record yourself and review later rehearsals.
✅ If possible, work with a coach to refine your delivery.

On the Day of Your Speech
✅ Fuel wisely: Eat foods that provide energy without causing discomfort. Avoid caffeine right before speaking—it can make you jittery and strain your vocal cords. Hydrate with room-temperature water starting the day before.
✅ Mental preparation: Build confidence by visualizing success, reading an inspirational quote, or listening to motivating music before you speak.
✅ Physical warm-ups: Public speaking is a physical activity. Loosen up with stretches (especially in your shoulders, neck, and jaw) and warm up your voice with tongue twisters like:
• Red leather, yellow leather
• Blue leather, black leather
• Dig a big pig
• Sushi chef
• Giggle gaggle
• Unique New York
• Toy boat
• All I want is a proper pot of coffee, made in a proper copper coffee pot.

Final Thoughts
Public speaking isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection.
It’s okay to feel nervous. Even top speakers do. The difference? They’ve learned to work with their nerves, not against them.
So next time you step into the spotlight, remember: it’s not about being fearless—it’s about being prepared.
Now, go out there and be heard.