When people get nervous, they tend to talk faster, rush their sentences, or apologize for having an opinion. If you want to come across as calm and steady, just slow the pace down a notch. Speak at a measured tempo, finish your thoughts cleanly without trailing off, and own what you’re saying. If speaking up in group settings makes you anxious, don’t try to dominate the room right away. Aim to share just one solid thought per meeting, and build from there. (AP Illustration / Peter Hamlin)