How public speaking can become your superpower: Improve your professional and personal life!
Imagine this: you're at a conference.
There's an impressive speaker on stage who captures everyone's attention.
He delivers his story with grace, wit, and authority.
You watch, feeling inspired, but also a little... green with envy. Why? Because the thought of stepping on stage makes your heart race faster than if you were watching a thrilling TV show!
Public speaking is often cited as one of people's greatest fears - sometimes even greater than death. But it's true: it can also be one of the most powerful catalysts for change in personal and professional life, especially for women who want to make a name for themselves, leave a legacy, or simply have a louder voice in decision-making rooms.
1. From "shaking voice" to "boss moves"
We all start somewhere. I vividly recall my first public appearance - a nervous presentation in college. My voice was shaking, my hands were trembling, and I think I broke out in a sweat that could have filled a small kiddie pool. But that moment also sparked something in me - a determination to improve.
What I've learned today is this: public speaking builds confidence like nothing else. When you overcome the fear of speaking in front of an audience, you empower yourself to speak up in meetings, negotiate for a better salary, and articulate your thoughts even in uncomfortable situations.
Tip: Start small. Speak up at team meetings, join your local Toastmasters club, or even train at home with your pets (bonus points if they wag their tails in agreement).
Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook's COO, wasn't born the influential speaker she is today. She initially struggled with public speaking, but she learned, matured, and now uses her platform to inspire women around the world to "lean in" to their careers and passions. You don't have to start perfectly - you just have to start.
2. It's not just about you, it's about others
Public speaking can feel intimidating because you feel like all eyes are on you. Here's a little secret: it's really about your audience. When you share a story on stage, offer advice, or present a solution to someone's problem, you're making a connection and making a solid impression on your audience.
Think about how your words could encourage someone in their toughest hour, help them solve a tough problem, or even inspire them to take a leap in their career. Such influence can be deeply fulfilling.
Oprah Winfrey has confided that every guest she has interviewed in her decades of television has had one question when the cameras stopped: "Was I acceptable?" Even people who appear confident on stage or screen have their doubts. Still, you can appear imperfect and have a powerful impact.
Tip: Engage your audience by focusing on their needs. Use humor, share stories that relate to your persona (even if you're laughing at especially if you're laughing at yourself), and try to make your performance encouraging, helpful, or change-inducing.
3. Turning vulnerability into strength
Public speaking is not about being flawless. It's about being real. Vulnerability makes you human. If you're talking about a topic you care about and your voice breaks, guess what? That makes you credible. People don't associate themselves with perfection, they associate themselves with authenticity.
When Brené Brown shared her research on vulnerability and shame, she admitted her fear. But this TED talk became one of the most-watched talks of all time because she was willing to share her mistakes.
Embrace the shakes. It's okay to feel emotions. What you say will then become more solid.
4. Help others and develop yourself at the same time
Public speaking can also be a means of helping others. Sharing your expertise, telling your story, or providing solutions not only uplifts your audience but also strengthens your leadership skills. You become a person to turn to, a mentor, or even a role model.
I once spoke at an online networking event for women about overcoming the fear of entrepreneurship and how not to give up when an unexpected problem arises. I almost backed out of the fear. But after I shared my journey, a young woman approached me with tears in her eyes and told me she had been struggling with the same feelings for years. My story made her feel seen, validated, and empowered to make a difference. This connection turned my fear into a determination to keep speaking out.
Tip: Be a helper. If you see a gap - whether in leadership, equity, wellness, or any other area - use your voice to fill it. Helping others gives you purpose, and purpose makes fear seem insignificant.
5. Fun tip: Turn your fear into fuel
Whenever stage fright overwhelms me, I turn it into energy. Nervous laughter? Cool, that's just enthusiasm in disguise. Sweaty palms? Great grip for the stage!
How to practice?
Breathe deeply: Before you speak, take a deep breath to calm your pounding heart.
Smile: Even if you feel terrible inside, smiling will make your brain think you're more confident.
Visualize success: Close your eyes and imagine yourself speaking confidently. Believe it.
Enjoy a small success: Did you speak up in the meeting? Give yourself a high five. Every step forward counts.
6. Women, the world needs your voice!
The world needs more women to lead conversations, break down barriers, and inspire change. Your stories, experiences, and perspectives are valuable. If public speaking helps you grow personally, develop professionally, and leave a lasting impact - why wouldn't you take the stage?
And one final motivational boost...
When you stand up and speak, you might shake.
But remember that every great speaker you admire once trembled too. Self-awareness is not a trait - it's a skill you train, shape, and own. And it will change your life.
So grab the microphone (or just a small coffee table for now), shake off the nervousness, and speak your truth.
I'm rooting for you. The stage is yours.
And remember, if you fall flat on your face (figuratively speaking), you'll at least have a great story to tell in your next speech...
What kind of impact does public speaking have on you? Do you experience stage fright?
How have you overcome your fears?
Let me know your experience in the comments...
