Thank You Dinner

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Tonight there is a thank you dinner that I will be attending.This means that there wil be about 200 people there. I have attended in the past as it is done for people who are helping out in different ways in the community. This year I found out that my wife and I will be receiving a special award.

This means there will be a focus on us which has me in a near meltdown state. I am doing my best to control it but it has been a struggle today. I know that they mean well and want to recognize the work I have done this year. They also know I am good at public speaking as I usually give talks several times each week. This is different though as I will be at the center of attention and will have to shake hands with many people who I dont know. I am fine with giving talks if I am in control.

This an event that I have to go to so I can't back out of it. I really just venting but also suggestions on how to deal with this event would be helpful.

Congradulations! What an honor it must be! I don't blame you for being nervous; I don't like public speaking, either. Most people don't. I always hated it when I was in college and I had to present my papers in front of the class. What I usually did before speaking in front of the class was to take a few deep breaths before presenting. Some people also find meditation helpful. Or try listening to soft music when you go to bed at night. That's what I do. You might also want to try practicing your speech in front of a mirror or in front of your wife. Good luck!

Public Speaking doesn't bother me much. I have spoken in front of much bigger crowds than the one tonight. I usually am in control of the event so I always know what is going to happen. My struggle tonight is that I have no control of what will happen. This is where I get stressed. I dislike sitting in front of people and attention being paid to what I do. I prefer giving talks on subjects. I dislike my work being the subject of a talk.