I have a quote that I use from time to time. I think it is attributed to Abraham Lincoln. It goes something like this. “If I were given 8 hours to cut down a large tree I would spend 7 hours sharpening my axe.” (I say saw in the video. Not sure where that came from!)
This is a great analogy for public speaking. It really is about the preparation and the rehearsal to sharpen your speaking skills. You don’t want to over rehearse. You do want to be comfortable with your content and how you intend to deliver it. The best way to do that is to rehearse.
One of the more powerful tools available to us today is video capability. Everyone has a smart phone and you can purchase a small tripod and adapter for less than $20. Capture video of yourself rehearsing your speech. You don’t have to show it to anyone. However, if you would like additional feedback I would encourage you to do so.
Either way you have to look at your video with a constructive eye not a critical eye. Pat yourself on the back for the things you do well and look for things that you can improve on and deal with them.
Now go out and Make Your Voice Heard!
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I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Leave me a comment or suggest a topic for a future blog.
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