2012-11-13, 05:48 PM
I've taken a public speaking class, and I was terrified of it. I would stutter, stare at the ceiling, and even the hand thing you did. We were required to purchase a mini dv for the camera in the back of the room so we could watch ourselves.
Slowly over time, through both the cameras presence, an our teacher using a bell whenever we used an "um" (or anything like that), I became better. Doing YouTube commentaries helped slightly as well, but I still say "um" from time to time. I've heard Toastmasters is a good place to practice and even learn tips from others, I think you should try to attend at least one, see how you like it.
Slowly over time, through both the cameras presence, an our teacher using a bell whenever we used an "um" (or anything like that), I became better. Doing YouTube commentaries helped slightly as well, but I still say "um" from time to time. I've heard Toastmasters is a good place to practice and even learn tips from others, I think you should try to attend at least one, see how you like it.