By TM Anisha Sehgal

I still remember the first time I stood behind a podium. My name was on the agenda. I had rehearsed my introduction at least 27 times. And yet, as I looked up at the expectant faces in the Toastmasters meeting room, my throat went dry, my hands turned cold, and I suddenly forgot what language I spoke. I mumbled something, got a few polite smiles, and sat down faster than you could say “Table Topics.” But here's the surprising part: no one laughed at me. No one rolled their eyes. In fact, they clapped — genuinely. That was the moment I realized… maybe I could do this. If you've ever felt the weight of public speaking anxiety, let me tell you — you're not broken. You're human. Glossophobia (yes, that’s the fancy name for fear of public speaking) affects even the most brilliant minds. One of my closest cousins is a doctor who can perform high-pressure surgeries but turns into a bundle of nerves when asked to give a health talk at a school. It’s not about intelligence — it’s about confidence. And confidence can be built. Joining Toastmasters changed everything for me. I joined thinking I’d just “try it for a month.” That was 3 months ago. Since then, I’ve gone from a hesitant speaker to someone who hosts events, delivers motivational speeches, and — most importantly — enjoys being on stage. What helped most? A community that lets you fall and still cheers for you. I remember one session where I blanked out during an impromptu speech. I awkwardly laughed and said, “This is what happens when your brain forgets

to show up.” The room burst out laughing with me, not at me. That moment taught me: the audience doesn’t want perfect — they want real. Here are a few things that helped me — and I hope they help you too:

1. Learn how to start a speech with a personal anecdote or question — it buys you time and draws people in.
2. Use body language intentionally — don’t hide behind the podium. Own your space.
3. Tell stories, not just points — storytelling in speeches connects deeper than bullet lists ever will. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have a mentor who believed in me more than I believed in myself. His name is Lokesh — a seasoned speaker with the calmest presence and the sharpest eye for detail. There were times I wanted to give up, times when a speech didn’t go well, or my nerves got the better of me. But Lokesh never let me spiral. He’d sit me down, help me reflect, and remind me that every stumble was a step forward. To this day, some of my favorite public speaking breakthroughs happened because of his thoughtful feedback and kind nudges. Honestly, a big part of me being me — as a speaker — is because of him. Whatever works for you — use it. It’s not silly if it helps. Public speaking success isn’t about volume — it’s about authenticity. You don’t have to be a TED speaker. You don’t need to throw your arms in the air or drop jaw-dropping quotes. You just need to find your voice. The one that says something only you can say. The first speech you give might be awkward. The second may be a bit better. But the tenth? That one could change someone’s life. Maybe even your own. Your story matters. Your voice matters. So step up. Take the mic. And remember — the spotlight isn’t as scary as it seems. It’s just waiting for you to shine.

With shaky hands, but a steady heart, A fellow speaker who once panicked and now smiles behind the mic!