Archive for January, 2011

I make an effort to avoid violent movies, television programs, and evening news stories.  I’ll admit to watching one cop drama, with occasional violent scenes, on a regular basis.  In general, I also try to stay away from war metaphors and other aggressive language when I’m speaking, in public and in private. Ordinarily I would let the Tucson shooting story play out and not add to the cacophony of commentary about it.  But maybe this is the tipping point for change in our public dialogue. One can only hope.

Words alone don’t cause people to do heinous things, however we are all responsible for the impact our words have on others and on our collective consciousness.  Do my words inspire, support, encourage, praise, give joy or are they critical, demeaning, antagonistic, negative, or dehumanizing?  If we each can start thinking about what we say before we say it maybe we can change the very toxic environment of our public discourse.  To paraphrase…speak to others the way in which you would like to be spoken.

Happy New Year! Saw a marvelous movie over the holidays and highly recommend it.  ”The King’s Speech” tells the real life story of Britain’s King George VI and his struggles to overcome his inability to speak without stammering. The acting is wonderful and it hit home for me because of the relationship between the King and his speech coach.

For most people public speaking is a challenge and the obstacles often seem insurmountable.  And the work gets very close to the bone for those who decide they want to improve. To coach someone in that situation is an honor and a big responsibility.  It requires building trust and creating a safe place for people to move outside their comfort zone. And it requires imagination and a bit of courage to find just the right strategy that will work with each specific individual.  It also helps if you can have a little fun along the way.

The King’s speech coach did all of these things brilliantly and in the end the audience appreciates what the King did to find his voice become the leader he was destined to be. It was also great to see the transformation of a human being meeting a most difficult and very public personal challenge.

See it…you’ll be inspired on many levels!  And if you are struggling with your speaking skills, take a page from the King and get a coach who can help you!