5 common public speaking myths (& why you shouldn’t believe them)
Myths (or misconceptions) can really mess with our minds.
And we all carry pervasive myths about public speaking in the shadowy corners of our minds. Public speaking looms large, like a shadowy shark in deep water. If we want to swim in deep water, we need to know how to tackle our fears and shove limiting beliefs out of the way.
So, let's talk about five of the most common myths and misconceptions about public speaking.
Myth #1: Public speaking should be EASY.
This is a classic myth, and very common. Since we all learned how to talk when we were toddlers, how much harder can it be to stand under a spotlight? Let’s be real: public speaking is nothing like a casual conversation. Stepping on stage or in front of a camera is often terrifying, because we have to deliver smart, succinct messages under high pressure. Think of it this way: just because I can float in a bathtub doesn’t mean I have the skills to go scuba diving. To be a great public speaker requires practice, patience, and some specialized skills. It’s definitely doable to rock the stage, but you need to put in the time to build some new skills.
Myth #2: Some people are BORN with great public speaking skills.
Forget your ideas about “born” performers, muses, or divine inspiration, because public speaking is a set of skills that ANYONE can learn. Just like driving a car, public speaking just requires some knowledge and a whole lotta practice that is available to anyone. Even skilled professional speakers will hone and improve their techniques (watch some of President Obama’s earlier speeches to see how he shaped his skills over time).
Myth #3: Public speaking skills are too hard to learn.
Unlike rocket science, which requires some serious math and science brain power, public speaking skills are easy to develop and practice in your daily life. Becoming a strong communicator is something that anyone can do with some determination and focus. (Basically, if I can do it...anyone can.)
Myth #4: Great performers and public speakers never get nervous.
Adele, Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt have all admitted in interviews that they get stage fright before a big presentation or performance. If these A-list professionals can get nervous, then maybe it’s okay if we get butterflies too! Truth is...stage fright is common for EVERYONE (it’s just our brain telling us that we are outside of our comfort zone).
Myth #5: Only extroverts can be great on stage.
Well, if this were true, I’d never make it past my first speech. I’m a classic super-duper introvert, so if I can manage my stage fright and share with a big audience, anyone can. I don’t care who you are or what your personality is, I know that you can master public speaking skills and become more confident on-stage or on-camera. Being able to connect with audiences is all about the work you do - your focus, your message, and your preparation.
When scrub out-dated myths from our minds, we’re able to step forward and focus on the REAL work of public speaking: building strong communication skills.
So, take a moment today and check yourself. Re-examine your attitudes...and give your synapses a brisk spring cleaning if necessary.