Believe it or not, this will actually make a huge difference in the way you speak. Since the diaphragm is a muscle, it needs exercise just like, say, your biceps. Once it gets stronger, you’ll be much better at controlling your voice (and the shake), since strong voices rely on steady breathing. [2] X Research source
When you say “ah” while breathing from your diaphragm, you should notice that it’s easier to speak loudly and steadily. Practice getting louder and softer. You can even take a few shallow breaths from your chest to compare the two sounds.
Say mm-mmm (as in the “that tastes good” kind of mm-mm), and mm-hmm. Remember to always breathe from your diaphragm during these exercises, and use your breath to make these hums loud. Repeat five times. Say “ney, ney, ney, ney” up and down your vocal range. Speak as high as you can and then move all the way down to speaking as low as you can. Have fun with this, because you’re going to feel super silly. Repeat ten times. Say “ooo-eee” over and over again, sliding all the way through your vocal range. Repeat ten times. Say “mmmmm” and focus on the buzzing sensation that should be happening right at the front of your face and around your mouth. Keep that buzzing going until you’ve finished your breath. Repeat this five times.
You can use the ones listed here or look up ones that you feel challenge you. Go as fast as you can, but only so long as you’re speaking clearly. Try: “the bluebird blinks,” “three free throws,” “what time does the wristwatch strap shop shut?,” “strange strategic statistics,” and “freshly fried flying fish, freshly fried flesh. ”
If you have a particular speech you’re preparing for, that’s perfect! Read that out loud every day. You can also record yourself on your phone or a video camera. Watch or listen to the playback to find spots for improvement.
Getting a good start may help you feel more confident. The first few words will be the hardest. If you don’t have a good start, don’t allow that to make you upset or more nervous! Take a sip of water and a deep breath, smile again, and keep going. You’re gonna make it through this.
Some people in your audience may be taking notes, and they won’t mind if you speak extra slowly.
A strong and loud voice will also automatically make you sound more confident, even if there is a slight shake. Remember that the most important thing is for your audience to be able to hear and understand you.
If you need to, focus on people’s foreheads rather than their eyes. They won’t be able to tell the difference. [16] X Research source
