postr/StutterApril 2, 2020

Advancing in Career and College but need to face public speaking...eventually

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Content

Advancing in Career and College but need to face public speaking...eventually Hi guys, So I \[20M\] have been a moderate stutter since at least 12 (earliest memory of it). I have had some very embarrassing stutters in front of strangers and my peers. I have avoided many events/opportunities to put myself out there because of a deep fear of stuttering in front of people (in a public speaking scenario). I can moderate my stuttering through breathing and taking breaks when I am not nervous and with a small group. But when standing in front of a lecture hall that all goes and the moment I block on a word - which is a matter of when not if (especially if I have to say my name always block on that!) - that's my presentation gone! Public Speaking is the greatest fear for most non-stutters for me (us?) its even worse. I am about to work over the summer at my dream job (1% acceptance rate v competitive) where I cannot afford to avoid speaking my mind. It is an internship where only the best will get full time return offers. Furthermore at university I aim to be taking more senior role in college societies where public speaking will be a necessity (not overly common thankfully but required no doubt this year). To put it short, I cannot advance my career/life further society without combating my fear, without conquering/controlling my stutter! Any help or tips would be greatly appreciated! Have any of you made the jump from "back-stage" to front and center speaking to entire lecture halls! I know practice makes perfect; just need help with overcoming the fear! Thanks in advance!

Themes

Anticipation & AvoidanceEmotional Experience

Subthemes

Anticipating StutteringAvoidance & SubstitutionHiding & ConcealmentOverthinking & MonitoringAnxiety & Social Judgment

Codes (3)

public_speakinganticipationsocial_pressure