🦋Prepared Butterflies: Write It, Practice It, Give It

Yesterday, I gave a speech in front of approximately 40 people. It was the first speech I’d given in quite a few months… maybe six or more.

I was recently asked if I could take part in a demo club meeting for our Toastmasters District. After thinking about it, I volunteered to be the speaker.

I figured I could whip up something about the benefits of Toastmasters and how helpful it is, especially for those in business. Whether you have to give presentations, speak at weddings, funerals, interviews, or simply want to work on your leadership skills, Toastmasters is a beneficial experience, and I highly recommend it.

So, I decided I would just create an outline and go from there. I did the outline and even added extra talking points in red, so I was ready… or so I thought.

When I walked into the room and saw all the people, I wanted to turn around and walk right back out. But I couldn’t. I was already there, and I was the only speaker. No backing out now.

I sat down and got my props out — my books and a list of locations where my book can now be found.

When I was called up, I walked to the front and gave my speech. It wasn’t fully the speech I had outlined, but it was still a good speech.

However, had I prepared my speech the way I know I should have, it would have gone even better.

I would have remembered to move the lectern so I could use more of the stage space (although I’m still not sure I could have moved it smoothly since it had no wheels).

I would have done better with my vocal variety.

My hand movements would have flowed more naturally with my speech.

Then there was my timing and overall flow; I felt just a little off.

My evaluator gave a great evaluation. He brought several things to my attention that will definitely be beneficial moving forward.

But the biggest takeaway from both his evaluation and my own “gut feeling” was this:

I should have been better prepared.

Practice, practice, practice… and for me personally, write out my speeches.

No more waiting until the last minute to write them.
No more waiting until the last minute to practice.

Even if it’s a last-minute speech…

Write it.
Practice it.
Give it.

Three simple steps, right?

Actually, it can be.

Let your creativity flow while writing. Practice with a timer, possibly in front of a mirror, or even have a friend or family member time you while you practice. They can also give you feedback.

Then, when you give your speech, presentation, wedding toast, or whatever else you may need to do, you’ll still stand up there with butterflies in your stomach…

But they’ll be butterflies that showed up and did the best they could because they were prepared.

Now, it’s late, and I am definitely ready for bed, so I’ll close with a few quotes:

Benjamin Franklin noted that failing to prepare is preparing to fail, while Abraham Lincoln emphasized spending more time sharpening the axe than chopping.

Robert H. Schuller said, “Spectacular achievement is always preceded by unspectacular preparation.”

Till next time… prepare your week and fill it with hugs, love, laughter, and blessings.

Good night. 😴