3 Myths About Public Speaking That Might Be Holding You Back
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Let’s get real for a second: most people don’t fear public speaking—they fear judgment. They fear getting it wrong. But here’s the kicker: so many of the beliefs we carry around about speaking in front of others aren’t even true. They’re myths. And worse? They’re often the very thing keeping talented professionals, executives, and leaders from leveling up.
As a public speaking coach for leaders and professionals, I’ve seen these myths in action. They sneak into people’s thinking, drain their confidence, and block them from sharing the messages that deserve to be heard.
Let’s shine a light on the top 3 myths that might be holding you back—and break through them together.
Myth #1: “I Have to Be Perfect”
Let me be direct: perfection is a trap. The goal isn’t to deliver a flawless performance—it’s to make a genuine connection. Some of the most powerful speakers in the world stumble over words, pause mid-sentence, or even laugh at their own flubs. Why? Because they’re human.
In fact, authenticity often creates more trust than polish ever could.
What truly matters is preparation, presence, and purpose. Focus on serving your audience, not on trying to impress them.
The need for perfection paralyzes so many professionals. It causes over-editing, over-scripting, and overthinking—leading to robotic delivery and missed opportunities to connect emotionally. Great communication isn't about saying everything "right"—it's about saying what matters in a way that feels real.
My Tip: Rather than scripting every word, prepare strong talking points and practice speaking from them. It keeps you natural and relatable. Trust yourself more than your outline.
Myth #2: “Some People Are Just Born Speakers”
It’s easy to watch a confident speaker and think, “They’re just naturally good at this.” But let me tell you—what looks effortless often comes from a lot of intentional effort behind the scenes.
Yes, some people may start with more comfort in front of others, but powerful public speaking is a learned skill. It’s built through repetition, reflection, and coaching. It comes from doing the work, taking the stage (even when your hands are shaking), and learning from every experience.
I’ve worked with executives and professionals who’ve gone from avoiding presentations at all costs to commanding a room with poise. Not because they were “born with it”—but because they were coached through it.
My Tip: You don’t have to be born with it. You can build it. Public speaking isn’t a talent contest—it’s a leadership tool.
Myth #3: “If I’m Nervous, I’m Not Ready”
Let’s set the record straight—nerves are normal. In fact, that adrenaline you feel before stepping up to speak? It’s the same physical response elite athletes feel before a big game. It means you care. It means you’re alive. It means you're invested.
The difference between anxious and energized often comes down to how you interpret those physical cues. Professionals who master the stage don’t eliminate nerves—they channel them. They know how to reframe fear as fuel, and how to steady their mindset when the pressure’s on.
So if your palms sweat and your heart races before a big talk, congratulations—you’re human. And you’re ready.
My Tip: Replace “I’m nervous” with “I’m excited.” It actually rewires your brain to view adrenaline as positive energy. Use breathwork and rehearsal to ground yourself.
Ready to Ditch the Myths and Speak With Confidence?
You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to be a natural. And you definitely don’t need to wait for nerves to go away before you step up to the mic.
What you do need is support, strategy, and the belief that your voice matters.
That’s where I come in.
As a public speaking coach for executives, professionals, and leaders, I help people like you transform the way they communicate—on stage, in meetings, and everywhere in between. Because when you speak with clarity and confidence, people listen. They remember. And they act.
