How Learning to Speak in Public Changed My Life

I still remember the first time I had to speak in public. My heart was racing, my palms were sweaty, and I could feel the weight of every pair of eyes in the room on me. It was one of the many presentations that I needed to do at my Masters, nothing too formal, but to me, it felt like stepping onto the stage of a packed theater. The words seemed to stick in my throat, and every pause felt like an eternity. It was at that moment I realized: I was terrified of public speaking.

For years, this fear held me back. I avoided opportunities to present, share ideas, or even speak up in meetings. I would sit quietly in the back, hoping someone else would take the lead. It wasn’t just about speaking—it was about feeling seen, heard, and judged. The fear of making a mistake, of being vulnerable, kept me silent.

But then, something changed.

A few years into my career, I was offered a promotion. It was a role I had worked hard for, one that would put me in front of colleagues and teams more often. I knew I couldn’t let my fear of public speaking stand in my way anymore. I needed to face it head-on if I wanted to grow—both professionally and personally.

I started small. One of my good friends invited me to Toastmasters meeting in Copenhagen. I remember the first time - I was only observing and admiring everyone speaking so easily. I joined them. I was surrounded by others who shared my fear. We practiced together, fumbled over words together, and supported each other through every shaky attempt. I learned techniques to manage my anxiety, structure my thoughts, and deliver my message clearly. But more than that, I began to understand that public speaking wasn’t just about delivering a perfect speech. It was about connection—sharing a part of myself with others, creating a dialogue, and being present in the moment.

As I grew more confident, I started volunteering for opportunities that required me to speak. I am so glad I found a community that celebrated progress over perfection with Toastmasters. With each speech, I discovered more about myself—my strengths, my values, and the unique perspectives I could offer. I learned to embrace my imperfections, to laugh at my mistakes, and to use my voice as a tool for change.

The impact on my career was undeniable. I became more visible in my organization, more influential in meetings, and more trusted by my colleagues and clients. I was no longer just another face in the room—I was a leader, someone people turned to for insights and guidance. Public speaking became a gateway to opportunities I had never imagined, from leading high-stakes presentations to speaking at industry conferences. From being totally terrified of doing it, now I stand in front of crowds to train and do speeches for a living.

But the most significant change wasn’t in my professional life—it was in how I saw myself. Learning to speak in public gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone in other areas of my life. It taught me resilience, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of continual growth. I became more confident in my relationships, more willing to take risks, and more open to new experiences. I realized that the fear that once held me back was the very thing that pushed me forward.

Today, I see public speaking not just as a skill, but as a journey—one that has transformed my life in ways I never expected. It’s a journey that has taught me that our greatest fears often hold the key to our most profound growth. If I had let my fear of public speaking win, I would have missed out on countless opportunities, both in my career and in my personal life. But by facing it, I found my voice, my confidence, and a deeper understanding of who I am.

So, if you find yourself shying away from the spotlight, I encourage you to take that first step. Enroll in this free class to get the basics, join us in our toastmasters meeting online, practice with friends, or start small by sharing your thoughts in a meeting. It won’t be easy—there will be moments of doubt, fear, and discomfort. But I promise you this: on the other side of that fear lies growth, connection, and opportunities that you never thought possible.

Public speaking changed my life. It can change yours too.