Speaking in public is always regarded as the most difficult task for many, but for some, it becomes a tool of social restructuring. Rachel Polito is an international writer, a bestselling author, and a professional public speaking trainer. Rachel has become famous by teaching celebrities, politicians, TED speakers, and normal people how to build confidence while being on the stage.
But the story behind Rachel’s journey to becoming an accomplished public speaking phenomenon is as inspiring as the work she does. Rachel suffered from the paralysis of the face at the teenage stage; she had this problem for nearly a year. From this condition she became very shy and afraid to go out or meet new people besides facing her fears she cannot even speak in public. However, her determination to overcome this challenge led her down an unexpected path.
To combat her shyness, Rachel decided to study public speaking, taking a course taught by her father, who is Brazil’s foremost authority on the subject and an international author of 35 books. Today, Rachel gives speeches to more than 12,000 people and she has also written ten books of which the latest one was published in June. Her story is a living example that no challenge is too big when someone learns how to tackle it.
In this blog, she shares some effective and practical tips on how one can excel at public speaking:
5 Unconventional ways to turn obstacles into public speaking success:
Embrace your unique story.
Rachel’s first technique is to accept all the things that make you unique and special. Facial paralysis for her was not something she wanted to bury, but something she wrapped into the story she wanted to tell. Thus, when delivering a speech, Rachel uses experiences from her own life to make the audience feel connected to her. It enables speakers to be unique and leave a memorable impression on their audiences.
Reframe weaknesses as strengths.
While many people with Rachel’s condition would consider it a hindrance, Rachel changed her perception of the situation and viewed it as an advantage. This helped her gain great knowledge of nonverbal communication and thus, she is now helping others. This theory entails the capability to view challenges from an individual’s perspective and consider the strengths learned from them.
Use vulnerability as a connection tool.
Rachel discovered that sharing her struggles openly created a powerful connection with her audience. In this way, she gains trust and makes people feel that they too have the same issues regarding relationships. They make the speakers more vulnerable and willing to share their stories about the issue, allowing the audience to connect with those speakers personally.
Focus on the message, not the medium.
Rachel was able to change her attention from how she appeared while speaking to what she was saying. The above strategy can be used by anyone who is struggling with how to deal with stage anxiety. Thus, by focusing more on the content and purpose of the speech, it is possible to convey it with even greater assurance and passion despite any physical disadvantage.
Practice radical self-acceptance
One of the most unconventional strategies is complete self-acceptance. By accepting who you are, you can reduce self-doubt and increase your self-confidence. This will make you more confident and genuine when speaking in public. It will make your presence on stage feel more authentic and compelling.
Conclusion
The story of Rachel Polito shows that the most powerful difficulties may hide the greatest victories. Through such strategies, one can unlock oneself and turn personal challenges into tools that will improve their ability to speak in public. It is not only useful in making people speak effectively but also in making them better as people with a new improved outlook on life.
Today, Rachel keeps on motivating and helping people from all over the world to change their lives; demonstrating that one should look at the obstacles from a different angle; it is just a great opportunity to grow. Her narrative is one more example of how one’s life and struggles can become the key to opening people’s hearts and helping others.
