New Yorkers Aren’t Afraid of Ghosts, Just Microphones

We all like to think we’re tough. We handle spiders, scary movies, and maybe even a creaky old house without flinching. But according to a new survey, New Yorkers have one fear that beats them all and it’s not what you’d expect.

The Real Terror? Talking in Front of People

MRO Electric surveyed over 2,450 people to find out what really scares Americans. And for New York State, the number one fear wasn’t snakes or clowns… it was public speaking. We can brave blizzards and parallel park on busy streets, but put us in front of a room with a microphone and we’re ready to tap out.

Forget Monsters The Podium Is the Villain

We’re not scared of what’s hiding under the bed but we’re scared of forgetting our lines during a presentation. The idea of standing in front of a crowd, stumbling over our words, or saying something embarrassing ranks higher than creepy crawlies or supernatural encounters. Even haunted houses are apparently less intimidating than giving a toast at a wedding.

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Why Is New York So Nervous?

Maybe it’s because New Yorkers know how brutally honest people can be. Speak in public and someone will have an opinion. Or maybe we’re just used to minding our own business and talking to everyone at once isn’t exactly in our DNA.

The Good News? We Are Not Alone

If your palms sweat just thinking about giving a speech, congratulations you’re right in line with the rest of the state. So next time someone asks you to say a few words at a meeting or family gathering, feel free to reply with, “Sorry, that’s officially New York’s biggest fear. Science says I’m out.”

If you really do that, please let me know and tell me how it works out. To see the entire list of the most common classic fears or phobias in every state, go here.