🔴Mastering the Red Dot: Jenn's Toastmasters to TEDx Journey
*Skip to the bottom on the blog post to listen to the podcast now!
Ever dreamed of strutting onto that iconic red dot 🔴and delivering a TEDx talk? Well, grab a cup of coffee and settle in because I'm about to spill the tea on how my journey from Toastmasters led me to TEDx success.
Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of practice, a sprinkle of courage, and a dash of fun! 😄
The Magic of Preparation and Practice 📚✨
Let’s get real for a second. If you think you can just wing a TEDx talk, think again. The secret sauce? Preparation and practice are key! Toastmasters was my training ground, helping me build confidence and refine my message. Rehearsing in front of my Toastmasters crew gave me the feedback needed to polish my speech to perfection. In Toastmasters, we don’t just get fluffy feedback – we get the real stuff. The hard things you don't want to hear but know you need to. It’s this honest feedback that makes all the difference.
Why Preparation and Practice Work 💪
You might be wondering, "Why all the fuss about preparation?" Well, let me tell you, preparation is like your superhero cape. 🦸♀️ It builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and sharpens your message until it’s razor-sharp. Rehearsing in front of my Toastmasters buddies gave me the feedback I needed to polish my speech and turn it into a masterpiece. Plus, knowing your stuff inside and out means you can handle any curveballs that come your way.
The Rollercoaster of Practicing Public Speaking 🎤
Practicing public speaking is an emotional rollercoaster, my friends. 🎢 At first, it can feel like you're standing at the base of a towering mountain, looking up and feeling a bit overwhelmed. The initial nerves are like that first steep climb – your heart races, and you're full of anticipation and fear. But as you continue to practice, you start to find your footing. One day, you’re struggling to catch your breath, and the next, you’re conquering new heights with ease. Imagine the adrenaline rush of stepping onto the stage, heart pounding like a drum, but with a newfound sense of readiness and confidence. That’s the power of practice! It's a thrilling mix of highs and lows, moments of self-doubt followed by exhilarating peaks, like reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking view. The journey is tough, but the triumph at the top makes it all worthwhile.
The Perks of Being Prepared 🏆
So, what’s in it for you? The benefits of thorough preparation are endless. Imagine delivering your speech with such confidence and poise that your audience is hanging on your every word. Your message will be clear, impactful, and unforgettable. Plus, these skills are like a Swiss Army knife – handy in so many areas of life, from work presentations to family gatherings. Who doesn’t love being the go-to Toaster at a wedding or having the skills to sidestep Aunt Susie’s questions about your love life? Preparation transforms you into a versatile communicator, ready for any situation!
Embrace the Chaos 🌈
Sometimes, things won't go according to plan – and that's okay! Expect the unexpected. Whether it's a technical glitch, forgetting a part of your speech, or a last-minute change in the schedule, flexibility is key. For example, during my TEDx talk, I lost track of the teleprompter and started to internally freak out. Instead of panicking, I took a deep breath, trusted my preparation, and improvised until the issue was resolved. It’s these moments of chaos that test our resilience and adaptability. Remember, it's not about delivering a perfect performance, but about how you handle the imperfections. Embracing the chaos (fist bump to Jordan Harmon) not only makes you a better speaker but also adds authenticity and relatability to your delivery.
Time to Shine! 🌟
Remember, everyone's journey to TEDx will be different. My experience was uniquely mine, shaped by my background, preparation, and the support I received. Your journey will be uniquely yours – embrace it! Ready to take the plunge and start your journey to mastering public speaking? Whether your sights are set on a TEDx talk or you just want to wow your friends at parties, or just not throw up when you have to give a presentation, preparation and practice are your best pals. Find a local Toastmasters club or other speaking opportunities and dive in. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how far you can go!
Curious to see how it all came together? Watch my TEDx talk, "Do Attachment Styles Determine the Dance of Our Relationships?" HERE. After watching, drop a comment and let me know your biggest takeaway or any thoughts you have! I'd love to hear from you.
