Not Perfect but Authentic

Do you ever look at speakers and marvel? You see them in the spotlight and think, “Wow, I wish I could be that good.” And then you start doubting yourself, thinking, “But I’m just boring old me. I can’t speak English well enough. I have no experience. I have nothing to share.”

Today, I want to encourage you. You are enough, and you have a voice that deserves to be heard.

I'm constantly studying speakers. Every week, I observe professional speakers and learn from them because I strive to be the best speaking coach, which means I must always be learning.

A week ago, I listened to someone heavily criticise people who use fillers like “um.” He really condemned those who use “um”. Personally, I tend to use “um” when I speak. Not always, but I do find myself pausing and using “um” from time to time. When I heard that critical viewpoint on “good speaking,” it silenced me for a whole week. I started questioning if I was good enough, if I had a place speaking at all.

Then, I had an important realisation.

If “um” is part of how I speak, then what the UM! I need to be true to myself. I've walked my own journey and acquired my own skills. I communicate in my own way. Not everyone has to love me or want to listen to me, and that's okay. I shouldn't feel awkward or inadequate because of this habit or these pauses in my speech. Ultimately, I know what I know. I bring a wealth of experience from my unique perspective, which makes me a distinctive teacher. I've come a long way from being a quiet teen to a confident adult who has engaged in public speaking, radio interviews, writing blogs, and now building an online career. What the UM! Can you hear me? Adelante!

So, never let setbacks or others’ opinions make you doubt your uniqueness. When we try to conform in an unnatural way, it silences us.

Two important considerations are

1. Message

2. Motivation

Watch the video below to learn more.

If you're doubting your abilities in any way, I want to remind you today that you matter, your ideas are worth expressing, and your voice deserves to be heard. It doesn’t matter if you're not as perfect as you aim to be. Every day, make an effort to become more of who you want to be. Dream big. Take steps every day. Practice every day.

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