10 Things I've Learned in 20 Years of Speaking

 

1. All major sports teams have coaches.  If you want to play in the major league, get coaching.

2- If you want to be good, hang around those who already are.

3- Audiences remember only a few of your words.  They never forget the essence of who you are.  

4- Work on who you are more than what you say.

5- Don't rush to get your book published.  People eventually forget a bad speech.  A  book is forever. 

6- Professional speaking is a crazy business but that doesn't mean that you need to go crazy.  Don't go bonkers, if you lose a speaking engagement.  It leaves that date open for another one to come along...or to write the next bestseller. 

7- Charge less than you are worth and grow into your fee.

8- Don't try to do it all.  Everything you hear from other speakers shouldn't be everything you do.  Take only what fits for you, your style, and your market.

9- Have a passion for what you do.  It will help you get through those delayed flights, canceled engagements, and not-so-great audiences.

10- Have fun.  If you are not enjoying what you are doing, why do it?
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