Are you ready to learn how to start the process of writing a keynote or TEDx? I will start off by saying this: writing can be daunting. It is not uncommon to sense your body tensing up or your stomach beginning to feel queasy at the thought of writing a speech. If that sounds familiar, take comfort in knowing that you are far from alone.
There are the two most common questions I get from my speakers: Where do I begin? and How to actually get started?
As I walk you through the process, always keep this one important fact in mind – it is merely the start of your writing. Nothing has to be perfect. When you feel yourself start to tense up and your body wants to resist, just remember that it’s only words on a page. Nobody is seeing this but you. This is your process. So give yourself the love and respect that you would a spouse, a partner, a dear friend or a client.
Writing A Keynote Address: Where to Begin?
What’s so awesome about this question is that it is the same for everyone, no matter where you are in your writing experience. You start wherever you are. Where you are is the perfect place. So the question is not really where, but it’s how. And because you’re starting wherever you are, you’ve also just taken the when also out of the equation.
I do want to issue a warning, however, because it is so important at this stage of the process – do not share what you’ve written with anyone yet.
During this phase when you begin writing, you’re going to get very excited about what’s coming out, but do not share what you’ve written just yet. At this precious phase of your writing, it is simply too soon to open yourself up to other’s opinions and risk feeling judged. While you may not realize it at the time, it could actually result in an entire tsunami of failure feelings and thinking that you do not need. This phase is just for you to generate material.
Now that you know where to start – not tomorrow, not after you answer another email, not after you take the kids to school – right now, wherever you are, is the time and place to start.
That leaves the question: “How do I start?”
Just do it. If you continue to do other things before you start writing, then you won’t get it done. If you just start, you will finally get words onto a page and be one step close to your big, game-changing talk.
Seeking GuidanceFor Your Next Big Talk
Tricia Brouk is an award-winning director, writer, producer and public speaking coach. As an expert in the art of public speaking, she puts speakers on big stages. She also hosts The Big Talk, an award-winning podcast for public speakers.
Tricia can give you a step by step process with the how to start writing your big talk, whether it’s a Keynote (45-60 minutes) or a TEDx Talk (12-18 minutes). If you’re looking for a speaker coach who can get you to the next level, reach out to Tricia Brouk today! In the meantime, check out her YouTube page for more public speaking tips and tricks.
