Six (6) Tips for Overcoming Shyness in Speaking Up in Class

As a teenager or young adult schooling – have you been battling or struggling to overcome shyness? 

Do you ever feel frightened to speak up in class, address a classmate about a particular topic, or share your thoughts and ask difficult or sensitive questions? If so, you’re not alone—but don’t worry, this article is here to help!

Get some snacks along with cool juice – relocate to a more quiet and comfortable environment to figure out every single tip for overcoming shyness in speaking up in class.  Are you ready? Let’s get started! 

Know this, being an introvert does not in any way mean you are shy. There are a lot of potentials and qualities in you that are to be unleashed. 

Amy Andrews wrote “Shyness is a prison that holds you captive. Break free and unlock the door to your true self.”  

I know how challenging this can be for many students, but again, this is an essential skill every student should have to express themselves freely wherever and even become a confident and successful student. 

I hope that these six (6) tips you are about to read should awaken your enthusiasm for public speaking both in and out of the classroom. 

1. BUILD SELF-CONFIDENCE    

Trust me, I can relate to how it feels when a question is being asked in the classroom and you have an idea about it, but the fear of speaking your thoughts becomes a serious deterrent. You’re somehow afraid of being bullied or laughed at.     To overcome shyness in speaking up in class you have to build your self-confidence.  Start to see yourself as a champion, and know that everyone has their own flaws (beautiful imperfections)  which make us unique in our ways. Stand before the mirror in your room and say positive things to yourself every morning before leaving your house. Get by heart that words have power.  

2. SEEK HELP

Tell others your deficiencies while in the classroom, ask them for counsel, and how to go about it. It could be some of your tutors, classmates, or anyone you feel livable around. 

3. PRACTICE SELF-HELP

Observe your peers when responding to issues in the classroom (how they answer questions and relate to the subject matter).  

4. COURSE PUBLIC SPEAKING

Sure thing. I mean it, make public speaking your personal assessment course. Take time to review your lessons, and ask yourself questions or comments you may have. Do this before your sibling(s) or any of your relatives. The memories are still fresh, I was in class that morning and my English preceptor at the time walked up to me and gave me a topic that I should present before the class ( at the time he had observed how tight-lipped I was, in class) I guess he was trying to make me feel like it, on the contrary, it was a serious hell for me. I prepared my presentation and built that self-confidence, but still, I had to be sure. Then, I gathered my mother and siblings and presented before them. There my mother started to help me out, it wasn’t easy, though. When you do this, you are going to see your improvement in class.  

5. THINK BIG

You have to think outside the box, my dear. Read often and watch some videos about overcoming shyness in speaking up in class. Make YouTube one of your best friends. 

6. START SMALL

Rome wasn’t built in a day. Start by answering at least a question in class. For example, you can make a small contribution or comment. As you become more joyful you can gradually improve your participation in class discussion.  

Overall, you’re an overcomer.

There’s nothing in this world that you can’t do, because nobody does it better than you do.  Start to practice those tips you’ve read, relax, and see the transformation. The moment you start to silence your inner detractor with the courage that you have, then you’re destined to overcome shyness. The classroom won’t even be a barrier.

Jessica N. Wesseh, Guest Writer