Reading in Front of a Crowd

Reading in front of a crowd can be daunting.  Many break out in a cold sweat.  Some get dizzy and pass out.  Others have full-fledged panic attacks.  Reading in front of others does not have to be that way.  Here are few tips to help you.

Practice – One of the best ways to conquer the fear of reading in front of a crowd is to practice.  Read out loud in front of a mirror.  Proceed to read to your pet.  Yes, your pet.  They are alive object and not the easy mirror.  They have eyes that can follow you which is one of the reasons reading in front of others is so difficult.  When you feel comfortable reading in front of Fido, read in front of your family.  The more you do it, the easier it becomes.

Breathing – Breathing exercises are the best thing to do in any situation.  Focus on your breathing.  Keep each breath even and slow.  You do not want to pant.  If you do not get your breathing under control, you could pass out.  Before you even step in front of anyone, get your breathing under control and focus on it.

Focus – You should have a focus point.  If you are not accustomed to reading or speaking in front of others, you probably will not be able to look people in the eye as you periodically look up from your reading.  Find a place right above the crowd’s heads and look there.  In fact, choose multiple places so you are not too stiff.  If you can do that, you will be in better control of your speech and reading.

Imagination – Many people have said over the years to imagine the crowd in their underwear when you are nervous.  To some this might help, but to others the horror of what they might see could make the matters worse.  But using your imagination is a good thing.  Imagine you are at home reading to your family.  Bring up images of sitting on a beach and reading out loud.  Where ever you are comfortable when reading, put yourself mentally there.

Reading in front of crowds can be relaxing.  Apply these tips and you will be able to share the joy of books with others.