Hello,
I suffer from "high-trait anxiety" public speaking fear; that is, I am generally a lot more afraid of public speaking than the average person. My voice quivers uncontrollably, I say a lot of ums, my hands shake a lot, and none of these symptoms become alleviated as time goes by during my presentation.
I have taken many public speaking courses; however, my problem is that I can get used to, and even friends with the audience that I am speaking in front of-- and eventually good at public speaking... in front of _them_. But as soon as I encounter a new audience, my fear is in full force again.
I feel like the only way I can conquer my fear is by speaking in front of a lot of different audiences in quick succession, so I am not used to the people at all. Unfortunately, I do not know in what forum I can do that. I have been thinking about attending various toastmasters clubs and doing one session each. But I feel like the group leaders may not appreciate that kind of behavior.
I have been ignoring this fear for a long time, but I dont think I can anymore. And I need some help! Any advice would be greatly appreciated!