Public Speaking Stress

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

Most people find public speaking very stressful. The night before having to speak in front of a large audience, they often sleep badly. They may even feel like vomiting before going onto the stage. But why does public speaking affect us so strongly? What can be done about it?

I see the suffering here arising from the powerful sense of ‘me’ and ‘mine’ that is provoked by being the centre of attention. The strong desire for acceptance and praise, and the fear of rejection and criticism, can be crippling. My advice is to establish the mind in loving kindness. Meditate on the sincere wish that whatever you say may be of benefit to your audience. By doing this you replace your anxiety about how people see you, with the beautiful wish to share whatever you know – however much of little it might be – for the welfare of all. When ‘me’ and ‘mine are dissolved in loving kindness, how could there be stress?

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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.