"There are always three speeches, for every one u actually gave. The one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one you wish u gave"-Dale Carnegie

Such a wonderful quote, I must say !
Time n again... i hv realized that speaking in front of a large group of people...and making presentations(technical/general)... giving a speech ...have never been easy.
Personally, I have seen myself evolve a lot in all the aforementioned categories.
As students or "just-in" professionals, we hardly get any opportunity to "speak-up" at places where ur voice matters. But out of the little opportunities I have had, I have miserably lost almost all of 'em. But there's a lot of change.
I have certainly realized that the fear of facing the world and making a speech in front of people emanates from the fact that you are not confident enough.
The confidence required is built over time. Its a long process. It requires in-depth knowledge about what you are trying to speak about OR the confidence that whatever little knowledge u have about the topic u are speaking about; is more than sufficient.
I vaguely remember, the last time I had such an opportunity was when I was explaining a group of under-grad students; the importance of the under-grad final year project. I completely messed up. I used some catchy-words toooo many times. To the point that the 2 minute talk sounded boring even to me.
The idea was good. Intent was pure. Approach was correct. But the means were wrong.
There was another instance when I was asked to introduce myself in front of a LOT of "good/great" people. I don't say I was that bad. I introduced myself properly. My voice was just a bit shaky though. But when it comes to communication, I would want to see myself to scale-up to perfection. Cause without effective communication, I don't think one can survive in this competitive world.
Now talking about the evolution: Last month I has a presentation in class. I had decided not to use those "catchy words" again. Keep it simple!
And... it went really well. I was satisfied that I had put forth my idea in an effective manner.
These little things give a lot of satisfaction. I have realized that I like technical presentations. I like to see people express their ideas and I like to do the same.
I wonder when I will get to speak next about something interesting in front of a large audience.
But what da heck.... m ready! & if I falter - I 'll try again. Bring it on.
:)