I know so many eyes staring at you. The center of attention.

Like everything else, practice practice. Speak with others and in front of others on a variety of things often. At neighborhood gathering, make a short toast, be the one who starts talking.
Know your subject very well that you have answers or ast least learn to say, that is very good insight, I'll get back to you on that.

I think that taking a small amount of anti-anxiety medication prior is an excellent idea.
I love not focusing so much on being nervous.
If medication is not an option, just make sure you are very well-prepared.
Rehearse as much as possible.
Make your speech interesting by starting out with an interesting idea or story.
Speak directly to your audience and try not to read from a notecard.

Your audience will get bored if you appear to be reading to them vs. directly speaking to them.
Most of all > visualize the best possible result.
That your speech was a success.
This is a much better option than dreading that your speech will be an absolute disaster!

Toastmasters, improv, and practice, practice, practice OP.

I practice relentlessly beforehand. I stand in the mirror, say it over and over and over, and move about the room. By the time I get to my presentation, I can do it in my sleep.

It's time consuming but it helps me.

I think Toastmasters or a drama class would be great too.

Read "Overcoming stage fright in everyday life" by Joyce Ashley and do the exercises. That book saved me. I had horrid symptoms but after that book I could look the audience in the eye.

Anonymous wrote:Have you tried beta blockers OP?

This. Game-changer. I take a Xanax anytime that I have to present, and I swear it improves my presentation. If you don't have to worry about nerves, you can better focus on the content of what you are saying.

When I was in sales and everyone was nervous doing their sales pitch for the VP of sales he told us this.

Relax, I know I told you what you need to tell the clients but they don't know what you are supposed to say. So don't worry about messing up. It is better to have charisma when you speak than the perfect presentation.

I also to stand up comedy and engage the audience.

OP - I have to ask,

Are you white?

Acting classes