How to Feel Comfortable Attending Public Speaking Events

Nervous about attending public speaking events? You're not alone. Whether it's a small talk at a local library or a larger gathering at a conference center, it's completely normal to feel uneasy. Sometimes just sitting in the audience can spark a little worry. You might wonder where to sit, if you'll have to speak up, or how to act when you're surrounded by strangers.

Still, these events offer more than just speeches. When you know how to approach them, they can be interesting, helpful, and even enjoyable. With a few simple ideas, it gets easier to show up and feel more at ease.

Understand What Makes You Uncomfortable

Before you head to any kind of public event, it helps to check in with yourself. What exactly makes you nervous? Is it walking into an unfamiliar place? Being surrounded by strangers? Worrying you'll be asked to speak when you weren't prepared to?

Naming those things takes some of their power away. That's because when we don't name our fears, they stay vague. And vague worries tend to feel bigger than they are.

• Maybe being in a big crowd feels overwhelming or overstimulating

• Maybe you get nervous about sitting in the wrong spot or not knowing the "rules"

• Maybe you're afraid of being put on the spot or noticing people looking at you

Whatever the worries are, know they're common. Even people who speak for a living started out feeling awkward. It takes practice and patience to feel at home in these spaces. But there's a way to start simple.

Choose the Right Events for You

It's easier to feel comfortable when the event is something you care about. If you're just getting started, try looking for smaller events with topics you connect with. You won't feel like you're forcing interest, and you'll naturally feel more alert and focused.

• Start with free or community-based events where the mood is more relaxed

• Take a look at what the event will be about beforehand, including who's speaking

• Look for venues nearby so travel doesn't add stress

Knowing the layout or format ahead of time can make a big impact. If it's a panel discussion, you know you won't be asked to stand. If it's a Q&A session, you can decide ahead of time whether you're comfortable participating or just watching. Giving yourself that choice is important.

Go with a Friend or Set a Small Goal

There's something about walking into a room with someone else that makes it feel easier. Even if you don't spend the whole event next to each other, showing up with a friend can lessen the pressure.

If you're coming alone, set a small, personal goal to keep your focus. That could be something simple like:

• Saying hello to one person in your row

• Writing down one thing from the talk that stood out to you

• Staying until the end, even if you feel uncomfortable at first

Once you hit that goal, give yourself credit. It might not feel like a big deal in the moment, but it adds up over time. That's how comfort builds, one small win at a time.

Use Simple Tools to Stay Comfortable

Sometimes the right little things can make the whole experience smoother. Picking the right seat, wearing clothes you feel good in, or keeping a water bottle nearby all help.

• Dress so you feel comfortable and confident, nothing too tight or fussy

• Bring water or a snack if the event allows it, just in case

• Choose a seat where you feel calm, maybe not in the front row where it feels exposed

• Have your phone off but nearby in case you need to step out for a breather

Giving yourself room to take breaks is part of the process. You're not being rude if you step out for a few minutes. You're doing what you need to feel okay, and that's important.

Get More From the Experience Each Time

Each time you show up, it gets a little easier. The room may still feel unfamiliar, but your body will recognize the steps. Walking in, finding your seat, listening, and walking out, those motions get more familiar each time.

Some events might stand out and stick with you, whether it's the speaker's message, the way the space felt, or even the quiet calm of listening without distraction. Over time, you may even start looking forward to these kinds of gatherings.

If you feel your heart racing or hands sweating during these events, that's more common than you might expect. Public speaking events can feel high-pressure at first, but they often don't require anything from the audience other than being present. Just listening is more than enough. If you come away remembering a point that made you think, or simply felt glad you attended, that's a big success.

Feeling Good in the Crowd

It's okay to feel unsure at the start. Many people do. But comfort grows, and the more you keep showing up at your own pace, the more natural it will feel. That nervous tension you had at the beginning may fade into something closer to curiosity.

Remember to meet yourself where you're at. You don't need to do everything perfectly. Being there is a big step on its own. When you allow yourself to enjoy the parts that speak to you, public speaking events in a place like Milwaukee, Wisconsin, start to feel more welcoming, not just something to get through. Over time, the space feels less like a crowd and more like a room filled with ideas. And you'll feel more ready to be part of it.

Ready to transform your experience at public speaking events? At DJ Shawna, we know each moment is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Whether you’re stepping into a new environment or returning to a familiar space, our commitment is to support you every step of the way. Discover how embracing these experiences can lead to growth and new opportunities.