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Notables That Have Also Dealt with Nervousness

“There are two types of speakers: Those who are nervous and those who are liars.”

This is one of my favorite quotes, attributed to none other than Mark Twain. He is known for his great works of literature but also for having given many memorable public lectures. He said it best, but it's worth repeating - Everybody experiences public speaking anxiety to some extent.

You might think you're alone in feeling afraid of public speaking. Well, it might surprise you to learn that some highly influential and well-known individuals have also wrestled with public speaking anxiety. Icons in business, performing, and historical figures alike have dealt with this common fear. Here are just a few examples:

“I was terrified of public speaking when I was in high school and college... I couldn’t do it - I mean I’d throw up and everything.” -Warren Buffett

“I think the audience knew what was happening. It was a play, they bought tickets, I’m up there acting – and I can’t talk.” - James Earl Jones

“The stage fright is what puts the edge, I think, on a performance.” - Betty White

“My vision became blurred and I trembled, though the speech hardly covered a sheet of foolscap [paper].” - Ghandi

“During the whole time I sat with him [Thomas Jefferson] in Congress, I never heard him utter three Sentences together.” - John Adams referring to Jefferson

So these extraordinary individuals achieved great things even though they were probably terrified at times.

I would venture to say that if they did it, then there's hope for the rest of us! Don't let public speaking anxiety stop you from achieving your goals or chasing your dreams.

You too can be successful, in spite of stage fright. Your anxiety might even motivate you to push yourself and work towards improving your capabilities. It's okay to be nervous, but you don't have to let that hold you back!