Your heart starts pounding so hard you're sure everyone can hear it. Your voice turns into a shaky, breathless whisper. Your hands tremble uncontrollably. Your mind goes completely blank, even though you know your material inside and out.
What I learned shocked me:
Declining job opportunities because they require presentations
Stuck in dead-end positions while less qualified colleagues advance
Calling in sick to avoid 5-minute team updates
Physical panic symptoms (trembling, shaky voice, racing heart)
Sleepless nights before any speaking requirement
Feeling like a fraud when people call you confident in other areas
Confidently accepting promotions that require regular presenting
Speaking up in meetings and contributing valuable insights
Delivering presentations without physical anxiety symptoms
Feeling excited rather than terrified about speaking opportunities
Being recognized as a leader and expert in your field
Advancing your career faster than ever before