Monday, January 30, 2012
Apprehensive....I'll say!
What makes me apprehensive about public speaking? Chapter 2 pretty much sums it up when it says that I am "genetically prone" to speech anxiety. I do not like to be the focus of attention. I am definitely an observer. I was very shy all through school and often people felt I was standoffish when really I just didn't feel comfortable trying to make small talk with unfamiliar people so I spoke very little, unless I knew you. However, other than that, I really don't identify with the other traits referred to such as low self-esteem, guilt and anxiety (other than when I have to stand in front of a group of people that I don't know and give a speech). I am a good student in that I enjoy preparing the speech and practicing (by myself). Hopefully, focusing my nervousness in a positive way, like relabeling will help me to become a better speaker.
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Hey there BTSblog!
ReplyDeleteI am completely with you on this one. I am a natural introvert, and the idea of everyone paying attention to little ol' me generally doesn't make me leap for joy. Like you, I would much rather play the part of the observer in the back of the room. So I guess this class is going to be really good for people like us, right?
I thought the book had some really good points. I think that speaking about a topic that you are passionate about is totally key, so I am going to do my best to avoid subjects like "the photosynthetic qualities of phyto-plankton." (Although, to be fair that might actually be a really neat subject, but you get my drift.)
I hope you are well, and I'm looking forward to relabeling my anxiety with you!
Amethyst February