How to overcome fear of public speaking?

If you are one of those people who have felt their heart coming out of their mouth while speaking in public, here are some tips for you to calm your nerves :  

1. Accept fear: Does "What if" syndrome plague you? What if I am laughed at or insulted or ridiculed or even worse lose my job. But does that really happen? Think about this...Do people have so much time at hand to focus their energies on criticizing just you! And will it be so bad if this indeed happened. Before you start talking, think of the worst consequences, accept that consequence(s) and Voila! You will magically feel that the fear has receded in background. DON'T DENY FEAR, ACCEPT IT!
2. Content: Remember what you speak is more important than how you speak. Content is King and make sure that you know the subject well or reasonably well to be able to articulate. Though you may think that if others are just getting away with blabbering, then why take the effort of preparing content. The answer is simple...you have figured out that they are blabbering and most likely others too will know this. It's a matter of time when that person will be called out for the gibberish. So don't take shortcuts and work on your content
3. Mirror talk: Think of any random topic when you are alone in your room, stand in front of the mirror and talk. Make sure you maintain eye contact with yourself in the mirror. Talk for 3 to 4 minutes and slowly increase the duration each day. Don't worry if you feel you are not making sense, it doesn't matter. Record yourself if you wish and review your performance. And practice again and again and again. You will see the difference yourself. 
4. Remember to breathe: You don't need to catch a running train. Hence slow down and breathe. Not only will this relax you, you will notice an improvement in your articulation.  
5. Choose your style: There is no right or wrong way of speaking. Some people speak fast while others prefer keeping a low pace. It is absolutely fine to choose a style that suits you. You are speaking to make your point and not trying to win a popularity contest. 
6. Repeat your point: If you think that you did not make your point clearly the first time or the audience did not understand it, then don't worry. All you need to do is ask for their permission to repeat yourself. In most circumstances, you will get a nod. Use this opportunity to repeat your point in a more clear, concise and specific manner.
7. Facial exercises : Five minutes prior to your scheduled time, sneak into a washroom or any private area and do some basic facial yoga. Something like the below. This will relax your muscles and allow you to express yourself better.
   
   
   
   
   
8. Eye contact : This can be daunting in the beginning and you should try this only after you have developed a reasonable level of confidence. Looking into the eyes of the listener(s) will allow you to modify your tone and articulation depending on their reaction.    

Overcoming the fear of public speaking is a process. You need to invest into developing this skill. Hence don't look for any shortcuts and don't lose patience. You will reach there in your own time!