Public speaking

[Alexjenk]

Hello,

My name is Alex and I've just joined SAUK. I've had social anxiety since approximately becoming a teenager. I really struggle when the attention is on me, particularly speaking in front of people. This has held me back in my career and with my relationships. I would really like to overcome this. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions regarding this.
I was thinking about getting some people together who have social anxiety and want to practise public speaking, maybe you write a speech about soemthing you are passionate about and practise in front of people who also struggle with a similar thing. If anyone would be interested in this please let me know.

Thanks,
Alex

[anewyear]

Welcome Alex. Yeah I also hate public speaking. Lord knows how anyone relishes the chance to stand up in front of a crowd and have all eyes on them!

Welcome to the forum.

[biscuits]

^ I thought toastmasters might be for people who excel at making toast. I'd rock up with a loaf of bread.

I'm okay at public speaking if I know what I'm talking about and have mentally prepared it and imagined it. A bit like how gymnasts usual visualisation. Visualisation and rehearsal really helps me. I also prefer not knowing the people I'm talking to because I can't imagine their thoughts.

I automatically become the spokesperson in groups like on courses because I feel bad for everyone else who doesn't want to do it. Also I just want my turn out of the way quickly so I don't have to sit their building up adrenaline.

Maybe this could work as a zoom group if you struggle to get people together in person? With a view to meeting up? Baby steps and all that.

Also welcome to the forum

[anewyear]

^ I'm actually similar to that in some ways. I'd be fine being the spokesperson for a group knowing there's backup behind me. My nightmare would be something like the Best Man speech at a wedding

[Percy]

Welcome to the forum Alex

[Alexjenk]

Hi Nanuq

Thanks everyone for your replies.

Nanuq, do you know which social anxiety support groups specifically would do that because I've not had much luck finding any?

Thanks!

[ShyShy]

School of connection do a good course. Bit pricey but kinda of exactly what you are talking about.