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Researchers have found that a simple activity reduces anxiety for public speaking students: visualizing success.¹⁵ With visualization, you imagine yourself scoring a resounding success, such as presenting your speech without a hitch and winning enthusiastic applause from an appreciative audience. Make your visualization as specific as possible. For example, imagine yourself striding confidently to the front of the room. Watch as you present your speech to the audience in the same way you would converse with a friend—natural and relaxed. Picture the audience nodding in agreement with a key point, smiling when an idea hits home, and laughing at your jokes. Listen to the thundering applause as you wrap up your speech. The power of positive thinking is no mere cliché. When you visualize success, you can ease your anxiety—if not eradicate it entirely.