YOU HAVE A UNIQUE VOICE

       One of the most common reasons some people hate public speaking is the belief they simply won't measure up. They have heard other speakers who really impressed them with their command of the subject, personal confidence and clever wit.  There are speakers who seem to hold the audience in the palm of their hand, always know the right thing to say, never make a mistake and tell really funny jokes. The folks who'd rather die than give a speech are convinced that, no matter what they do or say, they won't live up to that standard. 

       Why do we so often compare ourselves to others when we're thinking about doing something new or difficult? What is it that makes us want to know in advance that we'll do it right, we'll be okay, before we'll challenge ourselves to take the risk? Why don't we trust ourselves? Why do we need external validation to prove we're good enough?

       Public speaking is a learned skill like driving a car or playing football. It has rules and techniques that we have to learn in order to do it well. Nobody is born with the ability to effortlessly get up in front of the room and enthrall the audience. It's true that it comes easier for some than for others, extroverts have it way easier than introverts, but everyone has to learn the basic skills that will make the audience respond.

       The fact is that when it comes to speaking in front of a group, everyone is good enough! 

       Hard to believe? It's true. 

       We each have something to say and our own distinctive way of saying it. No matter the subject, the way you express your particular viewpoint is unique. No one can give a speech exactly like you can. Every one of us has our own unique voice and no one can duplicate it. 
       
       Whenever we give a speech, we're offering the audience more than just our perspective on the subject. We're offering ourselves. We're saying to the audience, "This is who I am and this is what I believe. I want you to believe it, too."
       
       It can be very scary to reveal ourselves to the audience like that. It makes us feel naked and vulnerable, afraid all our warts are showing and that the audience will reject us. Yet the true fact is that showing the audience who you are, in your unique voice, is the thing that will attract them the most. When they feel your passion and your personality coming through your words, they'll get who you are.

       When you're honest and open and let the audience hear your unique voice, it's a short step for them to know, like and trust you. 

       And isn't that what being good enough is all about?