Nnamdi Constance 
Ways to overcome presentation anxiety. Presentations used to feel like a total nightmare for me. I was studying International Studies and Diplomacy, a field all about communication and persuasion, yet I would completely freeze during class presentations. My voice would shake, my palms would sweat, and my heart felt like it was about to jump out of my chest.
I got to know that fear didn’t have to be the end of my story. I found ways to work through it. Slowly but surely, I figured out some strategies as an introvert that helped me turn presentations from something I dreaded into something I could handle. Here’s what worked for me, and I think it could help others, too.
1. Practicing with My Inner Circle:
I didn’t have a huge friend group, but I did have some siblings and a couple of super supportive friends. They would sit and listen while I practiced, and that made a big difference. If you don’t have anyone to rehearse with, a mirror can be a great substitute. It might feel a little awkward at first, but it’s just you and your reflection—your first audience.
2. Dedicating Consistent Practice Time:
I made it a point to set aside at least two hours each day for practice. It didn’t matter if I was going over the same stuff again and again; that consistent effort paid off. Just as with learning an instrument, the more you practice, the better you become. It builds confidence along with skill. It makes the topic ingrained in your brain, so when the day comes, you’re not suddenly fidgeting because you forgot some point, but easily going with the flow. There is another strategic thing I usually do. We live in a digital world, and almost everyone has a phone with a camera; the camera quality doesn’t have to be great. I would set up my phone record and start recording myself speaking. Certain social media apps also make it easier for this, like TikTok. So, utilize these things effectively for your ultimate goal.
3. Mastering Body Language and Focus:
Making eye contact with my classmates used to freak me out, especially when they were being silly. So I learned to look a bit above their heads instead. It kept me focused and made it look like I was confidently engaging with the audience. Natural hand gestures also helped me seem more relaxed rather than stiff and nervous.
4. Controlling My Breathing and Pace:
I used to rush through my words just trying to get them done, but I found out that slowing down worked way better. Taking deep breaths and pausing at important points made my speech clearer and calmed me down. Speaking slowly actually makes you sound more confident and articulate. Plus, it gives the audience time to soak in your ideas and lets you emphasize your key points.
5. Reframing the Fear:
I started reminding myself that these presentations weren’t just about grades; they were about learning a skill that could change my life. Facing my fears became part of the process. Every time I presented, I kept in mind that this was more than just an assignment; it was practice for something bigger.
Adjusting Eye Contact Based on Your Audience:
In class, looking right at my classmates could be distracting. Some would whisper, laugh, or make goofy faces. So, I learned to look slightly above their heads to stay centered and confident.
But when presenting in front of judges or a professional panel, direct eye contact is key. It makes you come across as self-assured and confident, even if you’re feeling shaky inside.
In the end, presentations are about how you’re perceived just as much as how you feel. And that perception can change everything.
Finally, I won’t pretend I became completely fearless overnight; it’s not even possible. Fear still pops up now and then. But through deliberate practice, taking my time, using body language, and shifting my mindset, I’ve learned to make fear work for me instead of against me.
If presentations feel like a nightmare for you right now, remember it’s not the end. It can be learned, just like you learned how to read, write, and handle a computer effectively; this also requires learning with dedication and seriousness. With baby steps over time, you can become someone who doesn’t just get through presentations but thrives in them. Also, fear starts in the mind; if you can overcome it, that will be a step towards many more beautiful experiences later in life. Smile every once in a while, while giving your presentation, and possibly add one or two jokes; it helps you relax.
