Intention of Your Talk
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of crafting your signature talk, there's something even more important we need to get crystal clear on:
YOUR INTENTION
Why are you really doing this talk?
What's the fire burning inside you that's driving you to step onto that stage?
What's the world you see when you put your message out there?When you decide to give a talk…
You’re making the decision to connect with your audience on a soul level so you can inspire them to take action.
Your intention is your North Star.
It's the guiding light that will keep you on track when you're feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just plain stuck.
It's the compass that will ensure your talk stays true to your heart and delivers a message that resonates with authenticity and power.
So, how do we tap into this intention?
I'm going to guide you through a little exercise to help you connect with the deepest "why" behind your talk.
Disclaimer: It might sound a little woo-woo, but trust me, it works!
Exercise: Connect With Your Why
Grab a pen and paper.
Find a quiet space where you can relax and focus without distractions.
Close your eyes (if you feel comfortable doing so), and take a few deep breaths.
1. Feel Your Heart
Bring your attention to your heart center (aka the area in your chest where your heart resides)
Feel the energy in that space.
Feel the life pumping through you.
2. Imagine Your Talk, Multiplied
Now, imagine your signature talk is out there, reaching millions of people around the globe.
Picture people listening intently, feeling inspired, and taking action because of what you shared.
3. How Do You Want Them to Feel?
In that moment, how do you want those people to feel?
What emotions do you want to evoke?
Write down the first words that come to mind.
No judgment, just let it flow. (e.g., inspired, empowered, hopeful, connected, courageous, seen)
4. How Do You Want the World to Be Different?
Now, imagine the ripple effect of your talk spreading throughout the world.
How would the world be different if everyone watched your talk and fully absorbed your message?
What positive changes would you see? Write down the images, ideas, and words that come to mind. (e.g., More compassion, greater understanding, a stronger sense of community, more action on climate change, less hate, more love)
5. Distill It Down
Look at the words and images you've written down.
What's the essence of your intention?
What's the one word, phrase, or sentence that encapsulates the deepest "why" behind your talk?
Write it down – this is your North Star.
Here's an example:
My intention is to ignite the spark of compassion and inspire a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved.
Take your time with this exercise.
There's no right or wrong answer.
The goal is simply to connect with the authentic power that's already within you.
This connection will be invaluable as we move forward in crafting your signature talk.
What's that thing that you want that audience (and the world) to come away with most?