Try any of these public speaking tips to improve performance and reduce self-consciousness:

1. Interpret stress in constructive terms (e.g., "I'm excited," not, "I'm panicking.")
2. Notice friendly faces just before you start.
3. Think, "slow down" while inhaling and "let go" or "step back" while exhaling.
4. Speak  s l o w l y.
5. Recognize that the audience is on your side and wants you to do well.
6. Those who don't look attentive probably have other things on their minds.
7. Focus on the content you're delivering rather than on how you appear to others.
8. Use a mantra like, "calm, confident, competent, joyful" before starting.
9. Smile.
10. Aim and Hang Loose.