Let’s be honest—preparing a public speech can feel terrifying. Your mind jumps to everything that could go wrong: forgetting your words, awkward silences, people judging you. But the secret? A good speech doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to feel real.
When you speak from a place of honesty and clarity, people listen. And they remember how you made them feel—not how flawless your delivery was.
Here are 3 down-to-earth tips to help you prepare with less stress and more confidence:
1. Don’t Write a Script—Write a Message
Most people start by writing out a full script. Then they end up sounding like they’re reading a textbook. Instead:
- Focus on the core message you want people to remember.
- Break it down into 3–4 key points.
- Write bullet notes or phrases—not full paragraphs.
Think of your speech like a conversation where you know your story well, not like an audition. When you know your message, you can speak from the heart. You’ll sound more natural and less robotic. And even if you forget a line? It won’t matter. You’ll find your way back.
Bonus tip: try saying your main message out loud in one sentence. If it feels clear and real, you’re on the right track.
2. Practice Talking, Not Memorizing
Memorizing every word is tempting—but it’s a trap. It creates pressure. And when nerves hit, memorized words disappear fast.
Instead, try this:
- Practice your speech out loud like you’re explaining it to a friend.
- Record yourself and listen—not to judge, but to notice what sounds clear and what doesn’t.
- Practice in different settings: standing, sitting, even while walking.
- Talk it through while doing something else—like making tea or folding laundry. It helps you loosen up.
Repetition builds comfort. And the more you talk it through casually, the more natural it’ll feel when you’re on stage. You’re training your brain to speak the message—not the script.
3. Picture One Person, Not the Whole Room
It’s easy to get overwhelmed thinking about a big crowd. So here’s a trick: speak to one person.
- Imagine someone sitting in the front row who genuinely wants to hear what you have to say.
- Focus on making your words clear and useful for that person.
- It could be someone you know, or just a friendly face you imagine.
This instantly takes the pressure down. It turns the moment from a performance into a conversation. You’ll sound warmer, more focused, and way more relatable.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Write down the main message of your speech in one sentence.
- List your 3–4 key points underneath it in bullet form.
- Talk through it once today—out loud, casually, no pressure.
- Bonus: Record a 30-second voice note explaining your topic like you’re texting a friend.
