The moment you step onto the stage, your heart races, your palms are slick with sweat, and your voice trembles like a leaf caught in the wind. Public speaking can feel like facing a firing squad—but guess what? You’re not alone. Almost everyone, from novices to seasoned speakers, has faced the dreaded symptoms of stage fright.

The fear of public speaking, or glossophobia, is incredibly common. In fact, studies suggest that over 75% of people experience some form of anxiety before speaking in front of an audience. And yet, we expect ourselves to walk up to a podium and deliver flawless speeches without breaking a sweat. The truth is, no matter how confident someone appears on stage, they’ve likely battled those same shaky hands and jittery nerves.

So, why does public speaking cause such a physical and emotional reaction? The answer lies in our biology. Our bodies are wired to perceive standing in front of a crowd as a threat—an instinctive response dating back to our ancestors who viewed being the center of attention as dangerous. Today, it manifests as sweaty palms, shaky voices, and an overwhelming desire to escape.

But here’s the good news: these symptoms can be managed! The first step is accepting that these feelings are normal. Even the best speakers in the world get nervous. Practice and preparation are your best allies. Breathing exercises, mental reframing, and grounding techniques can also help calm those jitters.

Remember, every great speaker started where you are—unsteady, unsure, and maybe a little scared. But with time, practice, and patience, you can turn those sweaty palms into the powerful hands of a speaker who commands the stage. After all, we’ve all been there, and we’ve all conquered it!