CEOs shoulder many burdens. One of the heaviest is the expectation that you are always "on your game" when you're in front of an audience. How do you stay inspired yourself so you can deliver an inspiring message to those who expect it?
Look around you at the news of the world. In tragedies and in triumphs there are stories of human nature that should spark your thinking. How do parents go out in front of their communities when they're overcome with grief? Thousands of activists will travel miles at their own expense to share their message. There are sports figures, and political leaders and business executives who face difficulties and turn them into opportunities.
I'm not recommending that you tell these stories, because they are not your own. I am recommending that you let your mind wander over your own life and you'll suddenly be reminded of a time when you experienced something similar and acted in an inspiring way. Think relevance rather than replication.
The three essential elements of a story are:
- Crisis
- Obstacles to overcoming the crisis
- Resolution
When you remember your own stories, identify the three elements. Craft your story using dramatic language, short phrasing and the active voice. Then end the story with a quick lesson learned. Now you've found an inspiring story you can take to your audiences.
How do you find inspiration and incorporate it into your business speeches? Share your ideas through out comment link.
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