“History has repeatedly been changed by people who had the desire and the ability to transfer their convictions and emotions to their listeners” –Dale Carnegie
In my 40-year career of professional coaching, I have found the above statement by Dale Carnegie to be axiomatic. When we can communicate effectively in front of a group, we are positioned to change history. Think of Abraham Lincoln or Martin Luther King. Speaking in front of a group was a critical part of their success.
Here is the secret that my experience and history have shown: Those who have the most fear of public speaking and overcome this fear are often the best speakers.
There is more good news! If you have a deathly fear of public speaking and you want to get past this barrier, the rate of growth can be very rapid. In a matter of months, you can become an excellent speaker.
Here is an example: Several years ago I was approached by an eye doctor who was excited about some special research he had done regarding vision problems in young children. He found there was an acute need to discover vision problems early to prevent difficulty in learning and motor skills. He wanted to get the word out so that affected children could better adjust to their schooling. After 12 weeks of working with him, the doctor went on a speaking tour, and a year later he was doing a series of lectures through Europe partially paid for by his speaking fees. You may think this is an unusual case. It is not.
If the fear of public speaking is holding you back like it was for this doctor, resolve yourself to take action by reading or enrolling in a class. You will be on your way to a new dimension in life, and who knows? You may change history
