How to overcome nervousness for going up and doing something in front of a large group of people?

Question

I am in a Mock Trial club and if I obtain the part for the mock trial, then I would have to be up against of a large group of people in a real courtroom and a real judge. I have major nervous issues lol and I want to be confident when I hopefully have an interview with a major business in my junior year. Any helpful ideas?

Answer 1

I face this same problem because I teach groups of students which change eveery week. I get about 6 different groups per week and what I do is to look deep into their eyes and I think funny things about them. In the mean time they think I am smiling at them but I am not, I am smiling at the funny thoughts I have about them and I do have eye contact and this helps me because they can not hold that for longer and it works. So, they are the first to give up at looking at me and that makes me feel more relaxed. No, I did not learn with anyone else, I developed it myself and believe me, it really works. LOL. Good luck.

Answer 2

prepare well for the mock trial. try to be ready for the arguments that could be used against you. sleep well the previous night. when you go up on stage cross your fingers behind your back. don't focus on any of the faces in front of you but look in their general direction. read from prepared matter in the beginning and as you gain confidence look up and face the world. a little bit of nervousness is healthy.

Answer 3

I never did what you are contemplating but in the military I have briefed rooms full of General Officers. Later in civilian life the same could be said of CEOs and other corporate big wigs. The key to my functioning came when I realized that if they knew more about the subject than I did, they would be briefing me.

Basically the people are there to hear you. So give them their money's worth. Good luck, you will do fine. One more thing, a small case of nerves will keep you sharp.

Answer 4

I used to be nervous while talking in front of a group of people but I looked at the back wall and moved my eye contact around and pretended the people weren't there. Practice is highly important know your stuff and don't be afraid of what the audience might think.

Answer 5

Imagine you have completed your Law degree and the trial you are in is one that could end anothers life..or restrain them of liberty for life. Focus..relax..take deep breaths...and pray/meditate beforehand. Make eye contact with only those who don't make you nervous at first..as you warm upyou'll be able to look t the Judge and compliment his robe in a calm, cool and collected manner. Good luck Kid.

Answer 6

Just remember that it will only last minutes, and then you will have accomplished something important.
I had to do public speaking once, and was terrified,and just prayed for God to give me the words.
Even if you don't believe in God, just remember that the more you do it, the more comfortable you will be up there.
Good luck!

Answer 7

Practice- but don't forget- they all wear underwear too, blow their noses, fall down and do stupid things. Everyone feels like their shoes are on backwards when they start an important-public- thing! GOOD LUCK!

Answer 8

Deep breathing exercises
Avoid caffiene before speaking
Wear comfortable clothing

Answer 9

Practice is good, and being prepared is good also. The more confidence you have in your preparation, the better you will do.

Answer 10

Practice as much as you can. The more you do it, the more comfortable you'll be. good luck.