Let's start building your speaking confidence by understanding what happens to your body and mind before you speak.

Your nervous system sends early warning signals before speaking situations. These are your "speaking triggers" - physical and mental cues that appear first.

Engagement Message

What's the first signal your body gives you before you speak?

Physical triggers are bodily sensations you feel when speaking pressure builds. Common ones include faster heartbeat, sweaty palms, tight throat, or shallow breathing.

These happen because your body activates fight-or-flight mode, even for simple conversations.

Engagement Message

What physical sensations do you notice before speaking up?

Mental triggers are thoughts and emotions that surface before speaking. Examples include "What if I sound stupid?" or "Everyone will judge me" or feeling your mind go blank.

These thoughts often spiral quickly and make physical symptoms worse.

Engagement Message

Can you recall a specific worried thought you've had before speaking?

Here's the key: catching these triggers early gives you power to respond instead of just react.

When you notice "Oh, my shoulders are tensing up," you can take action before the anxiety peaks.

Engagement Message

Why do you think early recognition helps more than waiting?

Type

Sort Into Boxes

Practice Question

Let's practice identifying trigger types. Sort these common speaking anxiety signs into the correct categories.

Labels

• First Box Label: Physical Triggers
• Second Box Label: Mental Triggers

First Box Items