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On Being Uncomfortable on Mic and on Camera

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Presenting on mic or on camera is terribly uncomfortable 

We are all human and as such we share some commonalities.  Aside from a body with 2 arms, 2 legs, 2 eyes etc. we share common emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, fear, and many more.  One common emotion we share are feelings of apprehension or unease especially when it comes to doing something we are not used to. We feel this sharply especially if it involves feeling vulnerable or exposing ourselves in public. Due to childhood experiences, societal pressure, and other factors, we all have developed at least one phobia. When someone has a phobia, they have a strong aversion to a specific thing or scenario. Phobias differ from ordinary anxieties in that they produce severe distress, potentially interfering with daily life at home, at a job, or college.

So, is the fear of presenting on the mic or on camera an anxiety or a phobia? Maybe for some these are anxiety-inducing activities and for others these are phobias referred to as glossophobia and scopophobia.

Glossophobia

Glossophobia, or the dread of public speaking and being self-conscious in front of a microphone, is widespread. This is known as stage fright, or the nervousness of speaking in front of a group of people. Based on some estimates, as much as 77 percent of people suffer from some style of public speaking anxiety. Most people are capable of regulating and controlling the pressure, others have a full-blown phobia.  If your fear is severe enough to cause work, college, or socializing issues then it becomes an issue.

 

 Scopophobia

Scopophobia, often known as camera phobia, is an extreme fear of being observed. The desire to avoid being videotaped or photographed by any form of the digital gadget is known as camera shyness. People who suffer from camera phobia are also terrified of speaking in public, being in front of prominent people, or having their photo or video shot. Some people appear to be at ease in front of the camera, but even if they aren’t afraid, they are nevertheless uneasy in public or with strangers.

 

In either case, when people with phobias think about being in front of a gathering of people, or speaking in front of a microphone or camera they experience significant bodily symptoms (heart palpitations, shallow breathing, sweating etc.) and have a difficult time performing in these conditions.  This impacts them negatively and they are unable to communicate effectively.

 

Whether we want it or not, we’re all on camera more now than ever through various social channels. Figuring out how to be comfortable on mic and on video can be difficult. Since image, voice, and movement are all combined in video, video is even more intimidating.  And if you’re nervous your actions or speech patterns may reveal nervous ticks you were previously unaware of. Having your image, voice, and movements recorded can draw attention to aspects you are already self-conscious about. Examining why being on camera makes you uncomfortable will help you focus on making efforts to become more at ease. Slowing down can help you feel more relaxed, tapping into your breath and allowing yourself to be who you are takes some pressure off of you. If you make a mistake, it’s ok, that’s what makes you human and people connect with people who are real.  Remember a mistake is not the end of the world; everything can be fixed in editing :).

 

There are many tips and techniques to help you overcome your fears and feel more at ease when giving a presentation.  Most importantly, remember that you are not alone. It’s typical to feel uneasy when speaking in front of a camera or in public. Many people have overcome their fears, and you can too. All you need is a clear plan, some training, and faith.  Believe in yourself and find some coaching; what you imagine you shall achieve.

 

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