"Every actor, singer, dancer, musician, and other performing artist knows that a certain amount of pre-performance jitters is normal. More than that, it’s actually beneficial. It energizes you physically and mentally and gets you ready for the big game. But when you actually freeze when speaking, lose your focus, or suffer from anticipatory anxiety for days or weeks; when you avoid speaking situations or experience overwhelming physical symptoms, then something must be done."
~ Gary Genard, from "Fear of Public Speaking? – Here's How to Take Action!"