Costly Public Speaking Mistake: Trying to Save Time

Photo by Zomerstorm

I understand the need to save time. I do.

With so many things to do and so little time to do them, we’re always looking for good time-saving tips and techniques. But there are times when saving time can cost you in the long run. I’m not saying that the long way is the best way, but shortcuts aren’t always what they’re cracked up to be. This is especially true when you’re talking about being effective in the areas of life that matter most.

Maintaining a fit mind and body takes time.

Building meaningful relationships takes time.

Mastering a discipline takes time.

I said that to say this … becoming a successful speaker and delivering a successful speech takes time. There are no two ways about it. Yes, it’s possible to save time in preparation, but it can be costly if you try to save time in certain stages.

You want to skip audience analysis? Good luck.

Feel like an outline is better than writing out your speech? Okay.

You think that editing your speech and adding rhetorical devices is unnecessary? Um …yeah.

Perfection is not the goal, but excellence better be. Excellence takes time.

Look at people who are successful in their chosen field, they tend to invest more time in honing their craft … not less.

If you just want to get through your speech, go ahead and save all the time you want. But if you want to be a successful speaker who delivers successful speeches,  I suggest you make the most of your time in preparation and practice.

Tagged as: Excellence, Public Speaking, Saving Time, Speech Writing, Successful Speeches