The ebb and flow of the ocean can be a peaceful or exhilarating journey not unlike giving speeches. Speakers need to re-examine the forces of nature to duplicate the same rhythms and patterns in structuring their speeches.
On a recent beach holiday destination, I observed as surfers repeatedly tried to ride their surf boards without much success. Their constant failure to even stand up was met with a wall of water crashing them below. They resurfaced, only to try again and again without success. Their determination to surf a wave, even for a few seconds was worth the effort with very few achieving their goal. The thrill of trying was their measure of success.
Becoming a professional public speaker takes practice, determination, energy and passion. There are hours when the ocean is calm, the waves are small little crests of foam forming circles in the sand. Then suddenly, the wind changes, the waves become larger crashing on the beach with a pounding force. Then the tranquility returns, and the waves usher in sounds and feelings of peacefulness, calmness and serenity.
Let your speeches give you an opportunity to test your skills, practice your strengths and improve with determination. Start your speeches with a pattern of calmness, followed by high energy and concluding with tranquility. Let nature be your guiding force to successful speaking.
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