Public Speaking

When I first started teaching public speaking, I would include visualisations in my courses.  It’s something I still encourage people to do.  

As a gift to yourself, take a moment to imagine the speaker you could be.  

Close your eyes and see in front of you your ideal crowd, all eager to hear you speak.  

You are feeling excitement – which is a mix of butterflies in your stomach and forward motion because you want to communicate.

You are well prepared and you’ve practised exactly the right amount.  Your material is interesting, succinct and relevant.

You’ve had a snack and hydrated well.  You are dressed well for the occasion, and you have on your lucky boots / undies / earrings… whatever makes you feel great.

The gent in the second row who looks like he’s frowning has just brought along the wrong glasses and he’s straining to see you because he knows this will be good.  And so do you.

You open your mouth and begin.  For the period of time you speak, everything flows beautifully.  You have a stumble, which you effortlessly incorporate into your presentation, while giving your audience a wink to acknowledge that you’re not perfect – you’re human.

Afterwards, the rapturous applause is music to your ears.  You stand in front of your audience and let it wash over you, knowing that your hard work has been worth it.  You walk off stage feeling hugely satisfied – and looking forward to when you can do it all again.

If you can imagine it, you can do it.