Ron Bratt gives tips for conquering debate-related fears.

1. Easing Your Fear of Debate
Ron Bratt

2. Be Confident
This tip is easier said than done — especially when you are in a
place of seemingly irreversible anxiety — but confidence is a highly
important part of facing and ending your debate-related fears. If you
are not feeling confident at this point in time, try your best to at least
look the part. The more confident you act, the more likely you are to
feel that way come competition day.

3. Be Prepared
With the previous section in mind, an easy way to boost your self-
esteem is to be well prepared. Regardless of your nerve levels, a
strong knowledge of your debate topic and position will all but
guarantee you are ready for a top-level performance. This notion can
be relaxing, and the sense of security it brings will put you well on
your way to mental and emotional stability.

4. Remember: It's Normal
By nature, humans tend to find comfort from communal hardship and challenge
— it is better to face an obstacle when you know you are not alone in your
endeavor. Pre-debate anxiety is a great example of this notion, and there are
many other debaters like you currently wrestling with unfounded fears and
stressors. If possible, seek out teammates or other peers who may be in a similar
situation (or, better yet, ones who have mastered their fears) and talk out your
anxieties. Either way, always remember that your feelings are warranted, to an
extent, and that you will be ready when the time comes.