Dare to Be Authetic

"Do not cringe and make yourself small if you are called the black sheep, the maverick, the lone wolf. Those with slow seeing say a nonconformist is a blight on society. But it has been proven over the centuries, that being different means standing at the edge, means one is practically guaranteed to make an original contribution, a useful and stunning contribution to her culture." (p.212, Women Who Run with Wolves)


The most impressive speakers I have heard and seen are those who care not to impress. Instead of "acting" in their speeches, they dare to be themselves, to be the unique individuals that they are.



There are many "cookie-cutter" styles of speaking. The do's and don'ts so to speak. But few venture to really understand what works for them and what doesn't. I believe that when we speak in public, it should be an extension of our private expressions. Everyone has some very interesting passions that are begging to be shared. More often than not, we want to stand on safe grounds. To seek to fit in. Trying to fit in has deadened or killed many individuals' unique messages or their way of self-expression.

Next time, you stand in front of a group to deliver a speech, make a conscious effort to do something different from the rest. Find at least one unique thing about you that you can share with your audience. It may be a thought, a story, or a way of saying something.

Bring forth something fresh from within you. Dare to let the real you shine through.