Communication Anxiety Remedies:
For Those Times When You're Afraid of Making a Fool of Yourself!

Communication anxiety is fear of making a fool out of yourself with your words, actions, and/or personal image.

Some people refer to this as a social phobia or speech anxiety, whereas others refer to this as shyness. However, whatever the label, the embarrassing feeling is the same for each person who struggles regularly or occasionally.

It starts with thoughts of "I'm going to make a fool out of myself.." "I'm going to look like an idiot" or "What if people laugh at me," which then leads to physical symptoms of avoidance, feeling sweaty, being nervous, and acting panicky.

If you've experienced these feelings you can relate to what I'm saying. However, you may be thinking.. "How can I stop feeling embarrassed when I'm the center of attention or when I'm speaking to a stranger?"

Well the good thing is..there are remedies for communication anxiety.

• Talk to Yourself in a Positive Way

Yeah, yeah..I know you've heard this over and over again, especially on this site. However, I cannot tell you this enough. The best way to feel comfortable in embarrassing situations is to talk to yourself positively rather than negatively.

• Take Deep, Meaningful Breaths

Anxious moments equals anxious breathing. When you're taking shallow breaths, you'll telling your body to be on defense for possible danger. However, if you offset this anxious way of being with conscious breathing, you'll automatically feel more peaceful and relaxed. I recommend that you get yourself involved in self-hypnosis, meditation, yoga, acupuncture or any other type of alternative healing method.

• Face Your Fears

The best way to deal with communication anxiety is to face it head on! Go ahead and face your biggest social fears..you can do it and you'll feel so confident afterward.

• Focus on Others

When you're feeling embarrassed or awkward when socializing, turn the focus onto someone else. You do this by asking questions about the other person. Ask things that are appropriate and say things that will make the other person feel good. After this process, your nerves will turn into feelings of joy and fulfillment.

So, whenever you're afraid of making a fool of yourself be sure to remember these remedies, and you'll be on your way to feeling at peace during social situations.