How to prepare for a competition?

Question

Hi! It's my first time here. So I would like to ask how to overcome my stage fright and how to prepare for it....I am in Impromptu Speech, where you answer questions. The theme is youth/education. The competition is gonna be in Wednesday...HELP!!

Answer 1

I am an actor so I think I can help you with this. Some people are just naturally afraid of public speaking, especially when you have to talk on the spot and you don't have anything written. A good thing to do (it's what actors do) is before you speak turn away from the audience and take a deep breath, maybe close your eyes for a few seconds. Then turn around and tell them you are ready. When they ask you a question just answer from your  heart and don't try to make it sound fancy or professional, just say the truth. You could also try to stick some humor in because if your audience is laughing with you, you will be less scared and uncomfortable. Try not to hyperventilate before you go on. In other words try to talk calmly to a friend, drink water or even squish a stress ball. You will make it through this!