Anxiety Induced Social and Vocal Changes
You’re about to speak to a client, group of your peers, colleagues or your boss. Breathing exercises have helped keep your heart rate at a normal level. Suddenly you open your mouth and out comes nothing or even worse, a high-pitched crackly voice. You try clearing your throat or taking a drink of water, but nothing helps. Now you’re left wondering why your voice failed you.
You are very approachable and no matter where you go random people strike up a conversation with you. Why do you sometimes feel like a turtle who retreats by curling his head and body inside his shell? You may not realize it, but stressful situations effect your vocal tone, demeanor, and presence.
If you have ever had your voice break/crack, become shaky, experience hoarseness or a sudden pitch change, you should be aware that these voice changes are often associated with nervousness or anxiety. So, is the fear of being embarrassed, humiliated or judged, leading to social shyness? Voice changes and social shyness are also our bodies reaction when placed in a stressful situation.
For years, I have helped leaders like you, find the confidence to speak and stand out for the right reasons in any speaking situation. Let me help you learn how to hold yourself, relax, find your right pitch and add vocal depth and dimension.
Tags: clearlyspeaking, effects of stress, fear of public speaking, shyness, stress, vocal tone, voice