Like many people, I was terrified of public speaking at one time, but I overcame my fear with the help of some helpful advice from a high school teacher who suggested focusing above people's heads rather than looking at their eyes. Public speaking is still a common source of anxiety for many people, including famous individuals like Gandhi and Abraham Lincoln, but there are several strategies that can be used to overcome it. Practicing constantly can help alleviate the fear of not knowing material, while finding something more powerful than fear, such as passion or personal experiences, can drive motivation to speak up. Thinking about how you present, including avoiding negative self-talk and focusing on positive thoughts, can also make a big difference. Relaxation exercises like meditation and deep breathing can help calm nerves before and during a speech, and being yourself and speaking from personal experiences can be incredibly powerful. Ultimately, finding what works best for each individual is key to overcoming public speaking fears.