Stage Fright Symptoms and Solutions

By Dyanne Lynne

Symptoms	Solutions
trembling hands and	Use small note cards. Place them on the lectern
a rattling manuscript	and slide each card to one side after it has been used.
stumbling over words -	Deliberately slow down your speaking rate until
getting "tongue twisted"	the problem disappears.
the feeling that you	Speak slowly. Take longer pauses between
cannot get enough breath – pounding heart	sentences. Breathe from your diaphragm and through your nose your nose.
unwillingness to look at the audience	In the beginning, do not look directly at individuals. Instead, look just above their heads or slightly to one side of their faces. Later, pick the friendliest face in the audience and look first at that person.
excessive perspiration	Ignore it. Do not call attention to it by wiping your hands or forehead.
cold hands and feet	Do not call attention to it by wiping your hands or forehead. Make some platform movement and gestures.
hoarse or squeaky voice	Before a speech, tape record your rehearsal sessions and concentrate on eliminating vocal problems. If occurs during a speech, ignore it.
dry mouth	Speak slowly to avoid getting tongue tied. Do not lick your lips in front of the audience.
tense muscles	Use platform movements and gestures.
cramps, butterflies, heartburn	Remember that the audience is ordinarily not aware of such symptoms. Ignore them as much as possible.
wanting to return to your seat	Resist this feeling at all costs. The best way to control fright is by having experience in public speaking.
feeling inferior	Try dressing for the speech in the outfit that makes you look your best or one that you feel most comfortable in. Naturally, it must be appropriate to the audience and occasion.