I love people! I can be in a mall or at the beach, on a dinner cruise or in a casino, and I will strike up a conversation with a total stranger. Of course, in my view, there are no strangers only friends I have yet to meet.
While I make no claims on being the life of any party, it is a safe bet that my personality type will seek to add laughter and good feelings to any social occasion. The nature of the good feelings I will freely sow into a crowd are complimentary in nature. I can find something worth noting in everyone. It might be their physical appearance, perhaps their profession, home town, college, or favorite sports team.
Because of my affinity for my fellow humans and willingness to engage in gab, I have added significantly to my knowledge base. This has resulted in an ability to find a commonality in even the most ethnically and culturally diverse gatherings. Which brings me to the topic of coaching.
When I take on a new client who desires to improve their public speaking performance, their professional presentation skills, or to improve their spoken English language skills, they can have great confidence I have their best interests at heart. I want my clients to achieve at the highest levels in every endeavor to which they commit themselves.
The basis for my well wishes interestingly has little to do with my bottom line. Of course my success as their coach does bless me financially, and it directly affects their success in the area for which my services were retained. But more importantly, I celebrate their successes because of what it means to them, their careers, and families.
It is an amazing privilege to operate in my passion for communicating and serving people. The Coach in me relishes each opportunity to help someone maximize their potential, and live the passion in their own lives.
Fearlessly,
JD
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Monday, April 23, 2012
Always Be Both
Plato was both, as was the Apostle Paul, and these are but
the most famous. Each of these men was
mentored, and gave of their time to be a mentor themselves. It is vitally important that we endeavor to
be both mentee and mentor.
I suggest mentee first because we don’t know what we don’t
know until we come across someone who, in fact, does know. While we may think we have all the answers,
it will become apparent when we begin the quest for our mentor that there are
yet questions we have never contemplated.
Plato was mentored by Socrates and he, in turn, mentored
Aristotle. The Apostle Paul was most
famously mentored by Jesus of Nazareth and then he mentored Timothy. The impact of these relationships in thought and belief has resonated and echoed through the centuries.
The impact of greater eternal significance is, of course,
held by Paul who was miraculously discipled by Jesus, the acclaimed Son of
God. You may disagree on this point as
that is your option, but nevertheless the impartation of wisdom was advanced in
world-altering ways. It is the attainment of wisdom we must earnestly pursue, and then a willingness to share our discoveries.
Have you a mentor? I have been blessed to receive mentoring from
close friends, business associates, fellow speakers, and even thought leaders
whom I have never personally met (Jim Rohn, who passed away in 2011). I routinely
call upon them for advice and wisdom as to how they conduct their affairs,
manage their time, and live the life they purpose to live.
Making myself available to others, being a mentor, is
likewise fulfilling, but also educational.
Two things must run concurrently in our lives: Learning and Breathing. They should continue together until our
breathing gives way to eternity.
To the extent possible we must make every effort to be both
mentee and mentor while learning and breathing are operable. Find that person or those individuals who
have been where you seek to go and learn all you can about how best to
prosecute this life. But also be open to
the addition in your life of people who wish the same from you.
Always be both, and marvel at the enriching impact your life
will have.
Fearlessly,
JDSaturday, April 21, 2012
The Dreaming Voice
Thursday, 19 April 2012. Towers High School in Decatur, Georgia. I was but one of the Speakers participating in Career Day under the direction of, and in concert with, The Stewart Foundation and the Administration of Towers High.
To three different groups of teenagers I was able to impart the truth that each of them has a dream in place. It tells them what they would like to be when they grow up. I call that dream their passion, or the voice inside. Most were able to let this voice speak, knowing their passion and dream precisely.
At Towers High there are pro-football players, pro track and field sprinters, cosmetologists, forensic pathologists, artists, actors, musicians, a young man who wants to be the first pro athlete to compete in the NFL and the NBA, and video game artists among other professions and occupations.
We talked about the nuts and bolts of living out their passions; the promise and the obstacles as well. The other speakers with whom I shared the ‘stage’ proved to be on the same page as I, and we delivered a cohesive message of hope.
A couple of months ago I addressed the lunch crowd of an Optimist Club with a message entitled, Caretakers of the Voice. The gist of my remarks established my sincere belief that we as adults are the caretakers of the voices inside our youth – our future.
Young people today have mighty dreams and aspirations! In high school, for the most part, no one has yet attempted to quash their dreams, written their dreams off as unachievable, assaulted the practicality of lofty aspirations, or insisted they stop dreaming and get a job. That’s good. On 19 April 2012, more than 140 speakers validated the dreams of our future, and encouraged them to continue to strive toward those dreams they now hold dear; to stubbornly hearken to the voice inside.
Interestingly, I was blessed to also encourage a teaching professional who desires to be a published author. Having self-published my first book, I was able to provide keen insights into the process, and deliver great hope to his efforts. You see that voice inside does not go away with age, we just get too busy to listen any longer. Four years ago I listened again and it has profoundly changed my life. Let us therefore not only be caretakers of the ‘voice’ inside our youth, but in ourselves as well.
Fearlessly,
JD
To three different groups of teenagers I was able to impart the truth that each of them has a dream in place. It tells them what they would like to be when they grow up. I call that dream their passion, or the voice inside. Most were able to let this voice speak, knowing their passion and dream precisely.
At Towers High there are pro-football players, pro track and field sprinters, cosmetologists, forensic pathologists, artists, actors, musicians, a young man who wants to be the first pro athlete to compete in the NFL and the NBA, and video game artists among other professions and occupations.
We talked about the nuts and bolts of living out their passions; the promise and the obstacles as well. The other speakers with whom I shared the ‘stage’ proved to be on the same page as I, and we delivered a cohesive message of hope.
A couple of months ago I addressed the lunch crowd of an Optimist Club with a message entitled, Caretakers of the Voice. The gist of my remarks established my sincere belief that we as adults are the caretakers of the voices inside our youth – our future.
Young people today have mighty dreams and aspirations! In high school, for the most part, no one has yet attempted to quash their dreams, written their dreams off as unachievable, assaulted the practicality of lofty aspirations, or insisted they stop dreaming and get a job. That’s good. On 19 April 2012, more than 140 speakers validated the dreams of our future, and encouraged them to continue to strive toward those dreams they now hold dear; to stubbornly hearken to the voice inside.
Interestingly, I was blessed to also encourage a teaching professional who desires to be a published author. Having self-published my first book, I was able to provide keen insights into the process, and deliver great hope to his efforts. You see that voice inside does not go away with age, we just get too busy to listen any longer. Four years ago I listened again and it has profoundly changed my life. Let us therefore not only be caretakers of the ‘voice’ inside our youth, but in ourselves as well.
Fearlessly,
JD
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Now That's Living!
Ever dream about being on stage? Not everyone does. As a matter of fact if you search the internet for ‘Number One Fear’ you will find that public speaking is listed by many as THE number one fear. Even greater than the fear of death or dying!
Jerry Seinfeld famously made reference to this by quipping, “So if I’m at a funeral, I’d rather be the guy in the coffin than the guy speaking about the guy in the coffin?!” Too funny, and isn’t that crazy?! Of course it’s because facing death is not only a huge unknown but is something very difficult to imagine for most of us.
On the other hand we can all easily remember anxieties related to having to stand up in class at some point to answer a question from the teacher, or to deliver a book report, or some similar ‘public’ speaking opportunity (test? trial? humiliation?). At a private club where I was once a member, I was speaking to a lady on this topic while she and I waited for our respective parties to show up. The conversation turned to our avocations. Being paid to speak was little more than a hope for me at the time, so…
I revealed to her my vision for an amazing speaking gig. In this vision I am just off stage, waiting to be announced. The house lights are off. All is pitch black except for a single spotlight illuminating a mic stand in the center of the stage. The sound coming from the audience is like standing near a diesel locomotives at idle. The volume and constant noise tell me beyond doubt the crowd is in the tens of thousands.
Realizing the size of the crowd, a smile begins to spread across my face. Oddly, my heart rate levels out even as the adrenaline begins to ratchet up. I flex my hands and fingers, roll my head and shoulders, and then…. I hear my name and step confidently into the darkness, crossing the stage to the place where I belong – in the spotlight, mic in hand, and I’m on!
When I finished regaling my momentary acquaintance with this story, she was white as a ghost! No doubt about her number one fear!
Is being on stage, mic in hand, your dream, your passion? Discover how to make it happen, determine to elevate it to a life priority, and turn your dream into reality. Now that’s living!
Fearlessly,
JD
Jerry Seinfeld famously made reference to this by quipping, “So if I’m at a funeral, I’d rather be the guy in the coffin than the guy speaking about the guy in the coffin?!” Too funny, and isn’t that crazy?! Of course it’s because facing death is not only a huge unknown but is something very difficult to imagine for most of us.
On the other hand we can all easily remember anxieties related to having to stand up in class at some point to answer a question from the teacher, or to deliver a book report, or some similar ‘public’ speaking opportunity (test? trial? humiliation?). At a private club where I was once a member, I was speaking to a lady on this topic while she and I waited for our respective parties to show up. The conversation turned to our avocations. Being paid to speak was little more than a hope for me at the time, so…
I revealed to her my vision for an amazing speaking gig. In this vision I am just off stage, waiting to be announced. The house lights are off. All is pitch black except for a single spotlight illuminating a mic stand in the center of the stage. The sound coming from the audience is like standing near a diesel locomotives at idle. The volume and constant noise tell me beyond doubt the crowd is in the tens of thousands.
Realizing the size of the crowd, a smile begins to spread across my face. Oddly, my heart rate levels out even as the adrenaline begins to ratchet up. I flex my hands and fingers, roll my head and shoulders, and then…. I hear my name and step confidently into the darkness, crossing the stage to the place where I belong – in the spotlight, mic in hand, and I’m on!
When I finished regaling my momentary acquaintance with this story, she was white as a ghost! No doubt about her number one fear!
Is being on stage, mic in hand, your dream, your passion? Discover how to make it happen, determine to elevate it to a life priority, and turn your dream into reality. Now that’s living!
Fearlessly,
JD
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Push Through
As a college senior and history major at the University of Georgia I was in great need of an easy 'A'. My advisor told me I had one elective remaining. Just one coin of that precious currency. I decided to spend it on Drama 101. Since I had been in a theatre troupe at another college before transferring to UGA I thought how hard could it be? I found out.
Day One: I walked into class and it was like someone let the air of the place. A quick visual survey revealed not a traditional classroom, but a smallish former office with chairs lining the walls on the edges of very old carpeting. There was an immediate bad vibe. It was nothing I felt toward the space or students already in the room. No, clearly I was the object of their dis-affection.
A scan of the students revealed an intentional disregard for fashion; ill-fitting and faded jeans, flip flops, beat up sneakers, t-shirts, sweatshirts, a lack of non-leather jewelry, and minimal make-up (on the females at least). Here I stood wearing my starched khakis, powder-blue broadcloth button down, Sperry Topsiders, and gold wristwatch. Although no one hissed it wouldn’t have been much of a surprise if they had. Apparently Greek life had not yet hit the Drama department.
I knew trouble was surely mine when, to break the ice, for surely it was in desperate need of breaking, the Professor asked us to name our favorite author. Before coming around to me, I heard Ibsen, Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Poe, and Khafka. What, no Seuss?? Anyway, I offered up a man I considered to be quite brilliant actually, J.R.R. Tolkien. My classmates laughed. Yeah, that’s right. They laughed as if Tolkien was some kind of half-wit hack! The ice remained.
My first assignment was a soliloquy from The Rainmaker. Since I had seen the movie, I thought, “No prob.” (really liked Burt Lancaster in that role) The anticipation of standing alone in a room surrounded by people who clearly don’t have your best interests at heart is not unlike going over a cliff on your bike. You’re okay for the moment, but the end is not going to be good.
In the face of emotions compelling me to race to Drop/Add, I showed up to perform. No sooner had I stood to speak than I went blank. My mouth opened but nothing came out, and the sharks began circling. Ever been to a late night screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show? There’s that scene at the beginning where Brad and Janet are obviously at the wrong party and say, “If only we were among friends.” Cue the audience, “But you’re not.” Same thing.
The Professor was quick to my rescue, and gave me the first word of the scene. That sparked a vague recollection, and I managed a couple of lines. Another hint, a few more lines, and we followed this pattern for the longest seven minutes…ever? It gets my vote. Oh and my audience? Less sympathetic than Brad and Janet’s. More laughter.
But I did it! As horrible and deflating and crushing as the public humiliation was, it was over, and I had stood in there and taken it. That had to count for something right? It did count. It energized me in a way I could not have imagined. From that moment I determined that the scorn of my classmates would never again be directed towards me.
I became one seriously focused, rehearsal maniac. That initial 'F' was followed by better grades and greater comfort in the class. I was the one who changed. I realized my polar opposites were actually not so bad when I gave their chosen passion the effort and respect it deserved. I even did a comedic, one-man improv for my final and made an ‘A’ on it! Sadly it was not enough to score higher than a ‘C’ in the class, but a life-long lesson was in the bank.
Push through folks. Though it seems the gates of Hell are standing before you, and abject humiliation is the certain outcome – it is just a speech. You will survive. Control what you can control, then push through. You will arrive on the other side stronger, better, wiser. Push through.
Fearlessly,
JD
Day One: I walked into class and it was like someone let the air of the place. A quick visual survey revealed not a traditional classroom, but a smallish former office with chairs lining the walls on the edges of very old carpeting. There was an immediate bad vibe. It was nothing I felt toward the space or students already in the room. No, clearly I was the object of their dis-affection.
A scan of the students revealed an intentional disregard for fashion; ill-fitting and faded jeans, flip flops, beat up sneakers, t-shirts, sweatshirts, a lack of non-leather jewelry, and minimal make-up (on the females at least). Here I stood wearing my starched khakis, powder-blue broadcloth button down, Sperry Topsiders, and gold wristwatch. Although no one hissed it wouldn’t have been much of a surprise if they had. Apparently Greek life had not yet hit the Drama department.
I knew trouble was surely mine when, to break the ice, for surely it was in desperate need of breaking, the Professor asked us to name our favorite author. Before coming around to me, I heard Ibsen, Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Poe, and Khafka. What, no Seuss?? Anyway, I offered up a man I considered to be quite brilliant actually, J.R.R. Tolkien. My classmates laughed. Yeah, that’s right. They laughed as if Tolkien was some kind of half-wit hack! The ice remained.
My first assignment was a soliloquy from The Rainmaker. Since I had seen the movie, I thought, “No prob.” (really liked Burt Lancaster in that role) The anticipation of standing alone in a room surrounded by people who clearly don’t have your best interests at heart is not unlike going over a cliff on your bike. You’re okay for the moment, but the end is not going to be good.
In the face of emotions compelling me to race to Drop/Add, I showed up to perform. No sooner had I stood to speak than I went blank. My mouth opened but nothing came out, and the sharks began circling. Ever been to a late night screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show? There’s that scene at the beginning where Brad and Janet are obviously at the wrong party and say, “If only we were among friends.” Cue the audience, “But you’re not.” Same thing.
The Professor was quick to my rescue, and gave me the first word of the scene. That sparked a vague recollection, and I managed a couple of lines. Another hint, a few more lines, and we followed this pattern for the longest seven minutes…ever? It gets my vote. Oh and my audience? Less sympathetic than Brad and Janet’s. More laughter.
But I did it! As horrible and deflating and crushing as the public humiliation was, it was over, and I had stood in there and taken it. That had to count for something right? It did count. It energized me in a way I could not have imagined. From that moment I determined that the scorn of my classmates would never again be directed towards me.
I became one seriously focused, rehearsal maniac. That initial 'F' was followed by better grades and greater comfort in the class. I was the one who changed. I realized my polar opposites were actually not so bad when I gave their chosen passion the effort and respect it deserved. I even did a comedic, one-man improv for my final and made an ‘A’ on it! Sadly it was not enough to score higher than a ‘C’ in the class, but a life-long lesson was in the bank.
Push through folks. Though it seems the gates of Hell are standing before you, and abject humiliation is the certain outcome – it is just a speech. You will survive. Control what you can control, then push through. You will arrive on the other side stronger, better, wiser. Push through.
Fearlessly,
JD
Monday, April 9, 2012
Communication Apprehension Reduction Strategies...huh??
When I first saw the term of art, Communication Apprehension Reduction Strategies, my very first reaction was not, “Oh yes, must look into that. Good info.” Nor was my reaction, “Ahh, I myself have suffered from this debilitating malady.” No, my first blush comment to myself was, “Huh?” It was not an intellectual response, just an honest one.
There are many amazing and scholarly white papers, essays, lectures, and articles devoted to the topic of minimizing stage fright. Certainly there are books devoted to the subject. My goodness if you get into a discussion group with access to speakers you may come away with as many different ‘fixes’ as there are contributors!
The cautionary tale of this note has nothing to do with stage fright, however. Instead I wish to pass along a word of encouragement to any who find themselves in front of an audience for one reason or another. The encouragement came to me from my friend, Carlos Greene, who co-authored, The Family Goal Planning Guide and Workbook (www.thegoalplanner.com).
In doing an early review of what would become my first book, Embrace: Meditations from a Word of Truth (available on Amazon and BarnesandNoble.com), Carlos noted that my well researched and thoughtful writing would not appeal to all of Christianity, but instead to a demographic very limited in number. The problem was my choice of words.
In my desire to be as eloquent as possible, I had committed a common mistake. Carlos rightly suggested the larger audience I sought to reach would understand what I had written, they just might not enjoy reading it. That’s a problem!
Knowing your audience is as important in speaking as it is in writing. When you can express yourself simply, and make your points easily why complicate the message? A sample of the best selling thought leaders (speakers or writers) will reveal a lack of what my Dad would have called ten-dollar words. They make their points convincingly without them.
Unless attending an audience of psychologists in a break-out session on anxiety disorders, one might never come across communication apprehension reduction strategies. But in the world where most of us live, it will not be uncommon at all to discuss stage fright or a fear of public speaking. Make your message simple and easy to adopt. In that simplicity is eloquence we can all appreciate.
Fearlessly,
JD
There are many amazing and scholarly white papers, essays, lectures, and articles devoted to the topic of minimizing stage fright. Certainly there are books devoted to the subject. My goodness if you get into a discussion group with access to speakers you may come away with as many different ‘fixes’ as there are contributors!
The cautionary tale of this note has nothing to do with stage fright, however. Instead I wish to pass along a word of encouragement to any who find themselves in front of an audience for one reason or another. The encouragement came to me from my friend, Carlos Greene, who co-authored, The Family Goal Planning Guide and Workbook (www.thegoalplanner.com).
In doing an early review of what would become my first book, Embrace: Meditations from a Word of Truth (available on Amazon and BarnesandNoble.com), Carlos noted that my well researched and thoughtful writing would not appeal to all of Christianity, but instead to a demographic very limited in number. The problem was my choice of words.
In my desire to be as eloquent as possible, I had committed a common mistake. Carlos rightly suggested the larger audience I sought to reach would understand what I had written, they just might not enjoy reading it. That’s a problem!
Knowing your audience is as important in speaking as it is in writing. When you can express yourself simply, and make your points easily why complicate the message? A sample of the best selling thought leaders (speakers or writers) will reveal a lack of what my Dad would have called ten-dollar words. They make their points convincingly without them.
Unless attending an audience of psychologists in a break-out session on anxiety disorders, one might never come across communication apprehension reduction strategies. But in the world where most of us live, it will not be uncommon at all to discuss stage fright or a fear of public speaking. Make your message simple and easy to adopt. In that simplicity is eloquence we can all appreciate.
Fearlessly,
JD
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Motivate Through Quotes
A worthwhile and even historic path to motivation can be
found through reading the noted quotes of the famous and not-to-famous. As I have embarked upon this new business
model of communication one quote stays with me from Andrew Carnegie.
You may or may not know the name Andrew Carnegie, and if you
do you may not know much more than he was a very wealthy man. He founded the
company which became United States Steel, but historically is perhaps now
better known as one of the foremost philanthropists the U.S.
Mr. Carnegie was instrumental in the establishment of more
than 2,600 public libraries. He was
convinced that information should be readily available to any who would make
use of it. It is one of his quotes that,
when blended with my own mantra (be better than you’ve been, do more than
you’ve done), drives me each day.
Andrew Carnegie said, and I will paraphrase, “The man unable
to motivate himself will not rise above mediocrity no matter his talents or giftings.” This quote is an ever-present driver if I
feel like ignoring my social media marketing for a day, or taking a day off
from working on either of the books I am currently writing, or prospecting for
speaking gigs, or publishing, etc., etc.
It gets me on track if my Bible study is neglected, or
continuing to digest fresh insights isn’t maintained. There is so much that goes into one’s own
enterprise that, at times, it can be absolutely overwhelming. Having owned a home renovation biz some years
ago, I am well aware of how daunting a task business ownership is. Being back in the game, so to speak, I
appreciate this nugget from one of the best businessmen of all time.
Search on the internet, or in your local library (Bartlett
Fearlessly,
JD
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Who Knows?
Who knows you want to speak? Who knows the desire of your heart is to be on stage in front of men and women who need the information or encouragement you have to share? If your wife, husband, close friends, parents or children are not booking agents or event planners how will anyone know your desire?
Spread the word! Blog about it (http://JDtheSpeaker.blogspot.com), tweet about it (@JDtheSpeaker), get Linked In (www.LinkedIn/in/WalkerJerry). Join organizations which can educate you about the profession, instruct you in the art of speaking (Toastmasters, Dale Carnegie), or otherwise further your ambition. Are you a member of a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue? Get involved and volunteer to lead. Sooner or later you will be given a ‘voice’ in that setting. Volunteering to serve as an officer or other leadership role in an organization is a terrific way to ultimately get the microphone.
Are you writing? Oftentimes it is important to establish your particular expertise by writing about it. I have been recognized as a thought leader in the area of turning negative situations into positive outcomes, and part of that recognition has come through my willingness to study and write about the results. What is your message? Have you written about it?
My D.E.E.D.S.© presentation is all about helping men, women, and teens live a life of purpose and destiny. I now get paid to present D.E.E.D.S.©, and have recorded a live DVD and CD presenting the topic in short-form to a gathering of business professionals.
Much of my current success is directly attributable to joining Toastmasters. I took advantage of my membership to not only hone the craft of speaking, but to serve as an officer, to participate in the various speaking contests, to volunteer to serve in Area and Division speaking contests, and to visit other clubs. I have been given speaking opportunities as a Target Speaker in an Area Evaluation Contest, and as the Sample Speaker in front of a Demo Club Meeting.
By virtue of immersing myself in Toastmasters I got my first paid speaking gig, which prompted me to begin defining my central message for public presentation.
This passion to speak that you possess will go nowhere until you elevate speaking to a life priority, as I did. As a practical matter it means you will spend time each day furthering your passion, believing you are going to become what you seek. It also means you are going to educate yourself about the art of speaking, which for me meant becoming even more well read than I was, joining Toastmasters, studying the craft of speaking, and studying my central message (do you have a central message?).
As soon as you have a forum to speak, no matter the size of your audience, by all means Speak! This will happen most quickly at Toastmasters, but as soon as possible demonstrate this passion of yours. What you will find is that your love of life increases as you become the person you wish to be. This will not go unnoticed by your family, friends, and co-workers who will likewise appreciate the joy they see in you. You are now sharing your passion, and it’s a blessing. I know because I began this journey in 2008.
Fearlessly,
JD
Spread the word! Blog about it (http://JDtheSpeaker.blogspot.com), tweet about it (@JDtheSpeaker), get Linked In (www.LinkedIn/in/WalkerJerry). Join organizations which can educate you about the profession, instruct you in the art of speaking (Toastmasters, Dale Carnegie), or otherwise further your ambition. Are you a member of a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue? Get involved and volunteer to lead. Sooner or later you will be given a ‘voice’ in that setting. Volunteering to serve as an officer or other leadership role in an organization is a terrific way to ultimately get the microphone.
Are you writing? Oftentimes it is important to establish your particular expertise by writing about it. I have been recognized as a thought leader in the area of turning negative situations into positive outcomes, and part of that recognition has come through my willingness to study and write about the results. What is your message? Have you written about it?
My D.E.E.D.S.© presentation is all about helping men, women, and teens live a life of purpose and destiny. I now get paid to present D.E.E.D.S.©, and have recorded a live DVD and CD presenting the topic in short-form to a gathering of business professionals.
Much of my current success is directly attributable to joining Toastmasters. I took advantage of my membership to not only hone the craft of speaking, but to serve as an officer, to participate in the various speaking contests, to volunteer to serve in Area and Division speaking contests, and to visit other clubs. I have been given speaking opportunities as a Target Speaker in an Area Evaluation Contest, and as the Sample Speaker in front of a Demo Club Meeting.
By virtue of immersing myself in Toastmasters I got my first paid speaking gig, which prompted me to begin defining my central message for public presentation.
This passion to speak that you possess will go nowhere until you elevate speaking to a life priority, as I did. As a practical matter it means you will spend time each day furthering your passion, believing you are going to become what you seek. It also means you are going to educate yourself about the art of speaking, which for me meant becoming even more well read than I was, joining Toastmasters, studying the craft of speaking, and studying my central message (do you have a central message?).
As soon as you have a forum to speak, no matter the size of your audience, by all means Speak! This will happen most quickly at Toastmasters, but as soon as possible demonstrate this passion of yours. What you will find is that your love of life increases as you become the person you wish to be. This will not go unnoticed by your family, friends, and co-workers who will likewise appreciate the joy they see in you. You are now sharing your passion, and it’s a blessing. I know because I began this journey in 2008.
Fearlessly,
JD
Monday, April 2, 2012
Here Come Da Judge
Does anyone out there in the blogosphere recall Laugh-In from the 70's? I loved that show, and when sitting down to blog about the North South Foundation this past weekend, the 'Judge' segment from Laugh-In came to mind.
On Saturday, 31 March, I was honored to be invited to participate in the North South Foundation's day of 'Bees' at Georgia State University. The North South Foundation (NSF) is an Indian American 501(c)(3) non-prof which has as one of its main aims the academic nurturing of Indian American children.
My history with the Indian American community began just this past December when I held one of my Fearless Speaker Clinics for the Telugu community and the North America Telugu Society locally in metro Atlanta (NATS). That Clinic was specifically written for children and teens of Telugu parents. By contrast the North South Foundation caters to all of those Americans of Indian ancestry and heritage.
I and two other judges graded out the participants of the NSF's Regional Public Speaking Bee. Divided into two classes, Juniors (grades 6-8) and Seniors (grades 9-12), we were impressed with the ability of these young, would-be orators. Most impressive to this judge and observer is the dedication of the Indian American community to their children.
The 'Bees' also included competitions in Math and Geography, and the halls of Georgia State University were abuzz (pun intended) with excited children and their devoted parents. As a community, Indian Americans are fiercely dedicated to the success of their children in American society. In Judging the Public Speaking Bee, I was greatly encouraged by the performances of the children who had a mere thirty minutes to prepare their 3-minute speech.
Do yourselves a favor and find out if more events such as this one are taking place in your own community. If not, be the catalyst for the success of the children you know. It was very satisfying to see a practical demonstration of my presentation, 'Caretakers of the Voice' by the parents and volunteers who provided this forum for these wonderful pre-teens and teenagers, and I will take this experience with me always.
Fearlessly,
JD
On Saturday, 31 March, I was honored to be invited to participate in the North South Foundation's day of 'Bees' at Georgia State University. The North South Foundation (NSF) is an Indian American 501(c)(3) non-prof which has as one of its main aims the academic nurturing of Indian American children.
My history with the Indian American community began just this past December when I held one of my Fearless Speaker Clinics for the Telugu community and the North America Telugu Society locally in metro Atlanta (NATS). That Clinic was specifically written for children and teens of Telugu parents. By contrast the North South Foundation caters to all of those Americans of Indian ancestry and heritage.
I and two other judges graded out the participants of the NSF's Regional Public Speaking Bee. Divided into two classes, Juniors (grades 6-8) and Seniors (grades 9-12), we were impressed with the ability of these young, would-be orators. Most impressive to this judge and observer is the dedication of the Indian American community to their children.
The 'Bees' also included competitions in Math and Geography, and the halls of Georgia State University were abuzz (pun intended) with excited children and their devoted parents. As a community, Indian Americans are fiercely dedicated to the success of their children in American society. In Judging the Public Speaking Bee, I was greatly encouraged by the performances of the children who had a mere thirty minutes to prepare their 3-minute speech.
Do yourselves a favor and find out if more events such as this one are taking place in your own community. If not, be the catalyst for the success of the children you know. It was very satisfying to see a practical demonstration of my presentation, 'Caretakers of the Voice' by the parents and volunteers who provided this forum for these wonderful pre-teens and teenagers, and I will take this experience with me always.
Fearlessly,
JD
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