Public speaking is just a skill that can be learned, honed and improved over time. However, when someone says, “I am not a great speaker,” it’s a dead giveaway that they are struggling in one or more of six major areas. But don’t fret because once you identify which area needs improvement, you can begin to take actionable steps toward becoming a confident and powerful public speaker.

Here are the six primary reasons why someone might consider themselves a less-than-great speaker.

1. Lack of practical techniques, strategies and methods

Many people believe that public speaking is a talent, a gift you either have or don’t have. However, modern-day public speaking is just like any other skill – it can also be learned and perfected with practice and the right approach.

There are numerous practical techniques, strategies and methods that can support you in developing and improving your public speaking skills. For example, compelling storytelling, body language, voice modulation and the art of persuasion can have a massive impact on how well you connect with your audience and convey your message.

2. Waiting for the perfect time to learn

One major and most prominent mistake people make is waiting and expecting the perfect time to learn public speaking. They may put off attending workshops, courses, or even practising public speaking in real-life situations, thinking they will tackle it at some point in the future when they feel more confident or when they have more time or money.

However, the ground reality is that there is no perfect time to learn anything. The only time is now. Delaying the start of the process makes it more challenging, so take small steps and begin to work on your public speaking abilities today.

3. Inability to handle nerves

Feeling nervous and uneasy before a speech or presentation is common and natural. However, your credibility will suffer if your nerves get the best of you and you freeze up or stumble over your words.

Learning how to manage your nerves and speak from a place of confidence is crucial. There are numerous methods to help you overcome your fear of public speaking, such as visualization exercises, meditation, breathing techniques and even improvisational classes.

4. Negative mental chatter

Negative self-talk can be extremely detrimental to your public speaking ability. Repeatedly convincing yourself that you are inadequate or will commit mistakes can eventually turn out to be true; it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Practising positive affirmations and surrounding yourself with positive reinforcement is essential to combat negative self-talk. Seek out encouragement from friends and coaches, and remind yourself of past successes to build confidence.

5. Lack of action

You might have big dreams of being a powerful speaker, but you will never get there without taking actionable steps towards that goal. Many people fall into the trap of mere dreaming but not doing.

Take baby steps every day to work toward your public speaking goals. Practice regularly in front of a mirror, record yourself giving a speech or attend a public speaking workshop. With consistent and steady effort and determination, you can achieve your goals.

6. Accepting mediocrity

Mediocrity has become the standard for many people who have given up on improving their public speaking abilities. They have convinced themselves that being average is enough and don’t see the value in investing time and effort into becoming exceptional.

However, if you wish to be distinctive and make an impact, you need to strive for excellence. Don’t settle for mediocrity – take action and work hard to become the best public speaker you can be.

Becoming a confident and powerful public speaker is a journey that requires constant and consistent effort and a willingness to learn and grow. By identifying your specific challenges and taking actionable steps toward improvement, you can unlock the secrets to becoming a masterful communicator and make a lasting impression on any audience.