Fear is not necessarily negative. It is your mind simply trying to protect you from getting hurt, feeling embarrassed, worrying what others will think, and of course rejection….no one likes that!

I, like you also have fear. One of my biggest fears was (Note that I said “was”) public speaking. This seems to be a big fear for many people, but it does not have to be that way! For many years I let this fear hold me back and I have missed many opportunities because of my FEAR! Well…not anymore. I have decided that my desire to help others is greater than my fear. How can I help others if I am afraid to speak in the board room or more importantly in front of a large audience?

For many years I have been building a company, investing in real estate, learning, and growing as a person. Part of that process is giving back to others. Perhaps you can relate to what I am saying. I believe we all have an important message, we all have strengths and we need to share these gifts with the world.

I really like the book “FEEL THE FEAR AND DO IT ANYWAY”. Written by Susan Jeffers, Ph.D. I love that title because that is exactly how it was for me. The fear never really goes away but you can learn different techniques to deal with the fear and over time it becomes easier. When I have to speak in public I still endure nervousness, the butterflies in my stomach, dry mouth etc. I still feel the fear but I do it anyway. I tell myself that “I can handle it” and I remind myself that my desire to help others is greater than my fear!

You see it is in those moments that you truly grow. When you become too comfortable you get stuck in a rut. We must constantly grow; it is one of your 6 human needs. IF YOU ARE NOT GROWING YOU ARE DYING!

Another option to help with fear of public speaking is joining a group such as toast masters. This is an option many people have used with great success. In addition there are courses such as the Christopher leadership course in effective speaking.

For those of you that have a fear of public speaking, here are a few more tips that I’ve successfully used:

• Know your material. The better you are prepared for your speech or presentation, the less nervous you will be.
• Know your audience. As you prepare, be sure to keep your audience in mind. How many people? What do they want to hear or learn about? What is the best way to present your message simply and sincerely?
• Know yourself: In the beginning you may be afraid that you cannot say what you want. These fears may cause your mind to go blank and tension in your body. If this happens, pause for a moment and take a few deep breaths. This will allow your body to relax.

I remember my very first real estate purchase back in August of 1998. I bought a beat-up power of sale for $69,000. I was scared out of my mind! At that time I was a young guy with no experience, education, or family to help me out if I failed. I felt the fear but I did it anyway and I am sure glad I did. I still own that property today and it cash flows great and it is worth well over twice the amount I paid. Since that first purchase I have acquired many properties and as my confidence and education grew my fear slowly diminished.

Do not let fear hold you back from becoming all that you can be…….

I know that you can handle anything life throws your way!

I hope this information serves you well. I will provide more helpful, free, information soon!!!

What Fears have you let hold you back? Please comment below!