Public Speaking & Influence · Expression & Creation
Expression & Creation · Public Speaking & Influence
7 reflections
《Speaking Power Comes from Inner Strength》 Beyond fluent language, where does true speaking power come from?
The greatest secret behind influence is speaking power;
The greatest secret behind speaking power is inner strength;
The core behind inner strength is “having a strong self” and “having independent thought.”
Speaking is not fluent language but flowing thought: within, a spirit embracing mountains and rivers; without, small bridges and flowing water…
《Four Levels of Speaking》 After understanding the content, do listeners also understand its purpose and begin thinking and acting?
First level: only you know what you are saying; listeners do not understand.
Second level: listeners know what you are saying, but not your purpose.
Third level: listeners know your purpose, and their thinking is sparked.
Fourth level: listeners hear the content while thinking, make the decisions you hoped for, and act.
《Nervousness》 When nervous onstage, am I focusing on my own performance or on helping the audience?
Why do we get nervous?
What does nervousness mean?
Nervousness means “not being accustomed”
How can we overcome it?
You are nervous because you care only about yourself
Onstage, think about helping the audience
The core of speaking is helping the audience
As long as you think of helping the audience, nervousness vanishes instantly.
As long as you think of helping the audience, you will not be nervous even speaking at the Bird’s Nest stadium.
As long as you think of helping the audience, you will open the gateway to letting your charm blossom.
The core of speaking is getting the audience to act. As long as you help them, the audience will naturally act.
《The Inner Strength of Speaking》 Without shouting or passion, how can I still make my ideas heard?
Speaking is the release of inner strength.
Within, a spirit embracing mountains and rivers; without, small bridges and flowing water;
Within, build a strong self; without, establish independent thought.
The secret behind a strong self is seeing no individuals, but all beings. Seeing no individuals allows you to transcend emotions and desires, untroubled by judgment and public opinion. Regard nothing as above you, grow “compassion” in your heart, and guide all beings to grow. Unless the human heart dies, the Buddha’s heart cannot arise!
The secret behind independent thought is not clinging to convention, breaking convention, transcending convention, and prompting thought. There is no need for blazing passion or shouting yourself hoarse: simply speak normally and tell it calmly…
《Twelve Essentials of Public Speaking》 Once onstage, which details can help me connect with listeners?
1. Do not speak with your back to the audience onstage
2. Scan the audience before speaking
3. Interact with listeners immediately
4. Open by explaining how you will help listeners
5. Never expect to help everyone
6. Keep asking simple questions
Does that make sense?
Is it so or not?
Right or wrong?
Do you agree?
Good or not?
Wouldn’t you say so?
Is it or isn’t it?
Everyone, do you agree?
Everyone, right?
7. Stand firmly
8. Look at everyone
9. Keep changing channels, using people or tools
10. Let it flow and blossom from the heart
11. If you forget your words, ask the audience
A good concert: “Sing together”
A good speech: “Where was I?”
12. If you cannot help, speak of your present state of mind
《The Foundation of Influence》 Is my influence supported by clear thinking and practical help?
Influence comes from clear thinking, sincere intention, and actionable help.
《Let Listeners Think and Decide》 After hearing a speech, can the other person understand, reflect, and make their own decision?
A good speech helps listeners understand, reflect, and make their own decisions.