How to stop mumbling
Discussion
I've always been a bit of a mumbler and don't talk very clearly or loudly which can be a bit problematic. Has anyone else ever experienced this and been able to improve on it?
Is it something you could improve from a youtube tutorial or would something more drastic like seeing a speech therapist be required?
Is it something you could improve from a youtube tutorial or would something more drastic like seeing a speech therapist be required?
This may be an obvious question but how do you know you mumble? Does everybody tell you to speak up or stop mumbling? Or just a few? If the latter the problem could be as much to do with their hearing as your speaking.
But let's assume that you do mumble. Has this always been the case? Are you a shy person who maybe doesn't think he has anything worthwhile to say? I fell into this category but over the years I have realised that what I had to say was as relevant and important as the next person. And quite often it was something that a lot of other people wanted to say/ask but didn't have the balls to say it. Yes, if I'm in a group situation I still feel myself getting a bit sweaty but as long as you word your question/statement well and with thought then you shouldn't have a problem. Also pick your time to speak. Many is the time when a question I wanted to ask is asked by someone else and so I don't have to speak!! Although sometimes you can then ask another question based on the original question and answer. Shows you listened to both.
So whilst I still have a tendency to mumble at times, I make an effort to raise my voice a little and say my words a little more clearly. Also look at your 'target' or if addressing a group look around i.e. don't focus on one person (unless you are speaking directly at them). And doing that means that you are raising your chin from your chest which will help to stop you mumbling.
Good luck.
But let's assume that you do mumble. Has this always been the case? Are you a shy person who maybe doesn't think he has anything worthwhile to say? I fell into this category but over the years I have realised that what I had to say was as relevant and important as the next person. And quite often it was something that a lot of other people wanted to say/ask but didn't have the balls to say it. Yes, if I'm in a group situation I still feel myself getting a bit sweaty but as long as you word your question/statement well and with thought then you shouldn't have a problem. Also pick your time to speak. Many is the time when a question I wanted to ask is asked by someone else and so I don't have to speak!! Although sometimes you can then ask another question based on the original question and answer. Shows you listened to both.
So whilst I still have a tendency to mumble at times, I make an effort to raise my voice a little and say my words a little more clearly. Also look at your 'target' or if addressing a group look around i.e. don't focus on one person (unless you are speaking directly at them). And doing that means that you are raising your chin from your chest which will help to stop you mumbling.
Good luck.
Definitely recommend learning to speak in public eg Toastmasters as mentioned above. They are very welcoming and encouraging.
I would also have a think about why you're doing it. It could be that you feel shy or your thoughts aren't valid or not as important as what someone else has to say.
I would also have a think about why you're doing it. It could be that you feel shy or your thoughts aren't valid or not as important as what someone else has to say.
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