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Del Morrill, M.S. C.C.H

Transitions

A Center for Counseling & Hypnosis
Tacoma, Washington, USA
(253) 752-1506

Overcoming Stage Fright: Make a Lasting Change

 

I hate speaking in front of people.

I have nightmares about making a presentation to new clients.

I'm so afraid of failing that I can't even open my mouth.

My new job responsibilities include working with large groups. I don't think I can handle it.



What is stage fright?

A dry mouth, rapid breathing, constantly checking notes, panic at the thought of speaking in public, all of these are signs of stage fright. For some people, stage fright is a temporary thing, overcome once the public speech or performance begins. For others, it is a more serious concern.

Stage fright is one of the most common human fears. From anxiety about an upcoming public event to outright panic built up over a number of years, stage fright manifests itself in many ways. At times the fear can be so debilitating that dread is the only emotion you experience. No matter how much you prepare, the fear is still almost paralyzing.

Why do I get so scared?

Stage fright begins in a variety of places. For some, early school days were full of the expectation to perform in front of the class. If your hard work was rewarded only by laughter or ridicule from your peers, it may have been more difficult the next time to speak up. For others, perhaps there is too much pressure to succeed, or a fear of becoming panicked in front of others. Perhaps it has been an accumulation of events over time, or the fear of being humiliated. Perhaps the fear is borrowed from someone else's experience. An overdemanding parent can cause unconscious fear of failing. Because so much of life is interrelated, it is possible that your stage fright is a symbol of something else in your life.

How can hypnosis help me conquer my fears about speaking in public?

Working with your hypnotherapist you can identify a specific event that caused the original fear; confront the fear while experiencing it as a non-threatening event; and reprogram your subconscious mind to increase self confidence.

All of these elements will work together to reduce the negative thoughts and feelings inside and give you room to develop positive images and thoughts. You will discover a new eagerness for future progress and development.

How long will it take?

If your fear is mild, you may need only one or two sessions with your therapist. If a deeper cause exists, then a few more sessions may be needed to uncover the cause, release it, and introduce positive suggestions.

The good news is that there is a way past the fear. You do not have to be paralyzed by your past experiences. You can enjoy your life and the people in it. You can discover new skills and talents and share those confidently with others. You can learn to enjoy the success that you have worked so hard to achieve.


"I am talking to more people and feeling confident, taking initiative." (Salesman)

"I wanted you to know that I was amazed at how well things worked out at my presentation to my colleagues. The results were extremely good. Not only did I do well, but I had lots of compliments about what a good job it was. I was amazed. I really appreciate it, and thank you very much." (Real Estate Agent)

"I was incredibly pleased with myself; the change and confidence in me was apparently noticeable, because my teacher is very impressed. I'm learning to relax before starting to play. I felt relaxed enough to get through the parts that previously had stopped me. I'm taking the feeling of relaxation into my lessons and performances." (Violinist)

 

 
 

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