I'm the PP who had to testify the next day. I went to court, the judge met with the attorneys in chambers, settled the issue, and I didn't have to testify. Win for me! (Also for my client because the outcome was in her best interest.)

While I was there I remembered what I did the last time I went to court. I wore my reading glasses up on the stand so I couldn't see anyone's faces, I could only see one foot in front of me clearly. If you have reading glasses, try that, OP.

At a minimum try practicing at home and make sure you project your voice to be more forceful. That can help keep it from wavering.

Look for a public speaking coach or even a voice coach (like for singing). They can be really helpful

Anonymous wrote:OP best of luck with all these remedies but also don’t worry about it too much - I can think of lots of reasons I’ve disliked public speeches and none of them was a shaking voice. I get that presentation is important and I understand why you would want to employ strategies, but don’t forget that content is king. Unless you’re a politician I guess.

Thank you - I appreciate that reassurance!

OP best of luck with all these remedies but also don’t worry about it too much - I can think of lots of reasons I’ve disliked public speeches and none of them was a shaking voice. I get that presentation is important and I understand why you would want to employ strategies, but don’t forget that content is king. Unless you’re a politician I guess.

I have the same problem! Thanks for the suggestions. I've always wondered if a speech pathologist was the way to go.

Anonymous wrote:Do you have other physical symptoms? Hands shaking? Breath shallow? If so I would definitely recommend beta blockers. They work amazingly well for me

OP again: No, none of those other symptoms. When I started doing public speaking, I got very nervous before getting up before the audience and sometimes I still do, but generally I actually enjoy the experience of presenting. Except for my shaking voice!

Do you have other physical symptoms? Hands shaking? Breath shallow? If so I would definitely recommend beta blockers. They work amazingly well for me

I agree with practicing a lot. Tape yourself, do a run through with your husband/children/friends. Do it over and over again.

OP here again - and I truly appreciate all these suggestions. I will practice the hell out of this book reading business - and if that doesn't work, will look into meds. Thank you again!

Get a Rx for a beta blocker. I take one every time before I have a speaking engagement. It’s been life changing.

I would recommend joining Toastmasters just to get some practice.

practice, practice, practice. otherwise, work on your deep breathing and speaking from your diaphragm in general. in the moment - take deep breaths and position yourself firmly before you start.

i like to do something loud to get charged up right beforehand - singing in the car works just find and bothers no one but my kids. I'm not really sure it helps

+1 for voice coach. Or even looking up some exercises on Youtube.

Anonymous wrote:Mine does the same though I’m incredibly nervous. Some people recommend beta blockers but if anxiety isn’t your issue not sure if it could help you

Beta blockers totally work to block the physical symptoms - been there, done that! My face used to get totally red, hands shaking, etc. Not anymore!