What is the term for the technique of focusing on positive outcomes to combat anxiety in public speaking?

Visualization is a technique often employed in public speaking to reduce anxiety by mentally picturing successful outcomes and positive experiences before delivering a speech. This practice allows speakers to create a mental image of themselves performing well in front of an audience, thereby boosting their confidence and reducing fear. By focusing on the positive aspects of the speaking experience, individuals can cultivate a more favorable mindset, which may translate into better performance when it comes time to actually speak.

While desensitization involves gradually exposing oneself to the anxiety-inducing stimulus, such as speaking in front of an audience, and affirmation refers to positive statements that reinforce one’s self-esteem, visualization distinctly emphasizes the mental rehearsal of success. Self-talk entails the internal dialogue one has with oneself, which can also influence anxiety levels, but visualization specifically engages the imagination to foresee desired outcomes.