Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking: Unlearning a Learned Fear
The fear of public speaking is a common phobia that affects many of us. But here’s a surprising truth: this fear is learned, not innate. Think back to your childhood or observe young children around you. Kids often clamour for attention, eager to perform and be in the spotlight. It’s only later that something happens – an emotional or physical hurt – that instils this fear.
Key points to remember:
• We aren’t born fearing public speaking; it’s a learned response.
• What can be learned can also be unlearned.
For some, this fear evolves into a full-blown phobia – an irrational fear triggering a fight-or-flight response. It can manifest as panic attacks at the mere thought of addressing a group, or even speaking to a stranger. Left untreated, this phobia can be debilitating, limiting both personal and professional growth.
Common roots of public speaking fear typically fall into these categories:
1. Confidence shattered by a perceived past “disaster”
2. Terror of making mistakes in front of others
3. Extreme self-consciousness about being judged
Regardless of the category, there’s usually an underlying event (or events) in the person’s past causing these feelings. Interestingly, they may not even be consciously aware of these triggering incidents.
While linguistic techniques can help reframe these situations, offering new perspectives, hypnotherapy goes a step further. It allows us to address the root cause directly, effectively “pulling out” the problem at its source.
In my recent work with clients struggling with public speaking – both those looking to overcome fear and those aiming to enhance performance – I’ve seen remarkable results. Using hypnosis alone or in combination with NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and Havening techniques, we’ve achieved the specific outcomes each client desired.
If public speaking anxiety is holding you back and you’re committed to change, remember that help is available. Professional guidance can make a significant difference in overcoming this learned fear.
The most important takeaway? Change is possible if you truly want it and allow yourself to embrace the process. Your natural confidence in speaking publicly is still within you – it’s just waiting to be rediscovered and nurtured.
Don’t let a learned fear limit your potential. With the right approach and support, you can reclaim the spotlight and express yourself with confidence, just as you did as a child. The power to change is in your hands.
