The Lincoln Log

Public speaking in America is a panic for people. Studies shows that fear of public speaking outnumber the fear of deaths. Why is public speaking a problem to many Americans? From having to experience it myself I think I know why.

A survey I did on Lincoln’s students and the results showed that more than 70% of them aren’t courageous in public speaking. Most of these people develop fear on public speaking in their growing age as teenagers.

It was my first time standing up in front of the class to do a presentation of my work. As the time came closer to my turn to do my presentation, my mind was filling with different ways to escape the moment. I was in front of the class, but I barely started yet I can feel my face turning red. I started speaking, but all I could do was read from the text than doing the presentation. The uncomfortable moment brought into my legs shaking and my voice quivered. I almost wasn’t even able to continue my presentation. A moment later, I can feel my face heating up which I am sure that it’s red as a tomato. Then someone said, “Dang”. I look at the audience and found eyes staring at me as if I was going to past out. I don’t know what to do other than want to hide my face behind the little paper note I was holding and hopefully it will be over.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t surprises because next to death is public speaking that I fear. It was only a classroom, yet I was so afraid of doing the presentation. I’m usually comfortable to give off speech and present my work, but that is only when I’m with familiar people. If I knew everyone in the classroom a lot more than I do, it would’ve be an easier moment for me.

Soon I became better at participating in public speaking. How did I overcome it? Is it hard and does it takes time? No it’s not hard at all! It just took time and I had to go out for it because no one is able to help me if I don’t try.