Final answer:
To manage and overcome fear of public speaking, your friend can practice, use breathing techniques, visualize success, familiarize with the environment, and engage in positive self-talk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public speaking can be very stressful, and anticipating giving a public speech can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. When managing and overcoming fear of public speaking, here are four or five specific things your friend can do in the preparation stage:
- Practice: Encourage your friend to practice their speech multiple times. This will help build confidence and familiarity with the material.
- Breathing techniques: Suggest deep breathing exercises or techniques like diaphragmatic breathing. These can help reduce anxiety and calm the nervous system.
- Visualize success: Ask your friend to visualize themselves delivering a successful presentation, feeling confident and receiving positive feedback from the audience.
- Familiarize with the environment: If possible, visit the venue or practice in a similar setting to get a sense of the space and reduce unfamiliarity on the day of the presentation.
- Positive self-talk: Remind your friend to use positive affirmations and self-talk. Encourage them to focus on their strengths and remind themselves that they are capable of delivering a great presentation.