Adding Value to Others

After going over preparations for an upcoming conference I am speaking at, I was left contemplating what my process has been when these events transpire.  My initial recollection went quickly to the first time I was asked to speak and I can recall doing a lot of preparation and nervously getting through the material, while hoping I did not bore anyone or see anyone falling asleep in front of me.  I can laugh about that now, however, I still get a rush of butterflies right before I begin and then I decide that whatever comes out of my mouth will be a surprise to the audience along with myself.   I know that this may sound unconventional for many, however, what I can rely upon are my life experiences which I can recall in any given situation.  As a result, I would like to believe that I can add value to a discussion topic when given the opportunity.  However, if you were to ask me about the topics or stories I discussed, I would not be able to tell you.  The reason is, as soon as my discussion was completed, I let it all go.  The release of that is my version of a natural high as the energy which is needed to get through a presentation transforms me in the process.  My ultimate hope in all of these occasions is that I am able to connect to folks in an audience, who will ultimately get my message.  When I think back to myself attending conferences or seminars as a younger person, it was easier to retain information which had both a personal and professional aspect to the subject matter.  Hence, I have always remembered those experiences and through the course of my career, I write and present material when given the opportunity with both of these things in mind.  Finding my voice to speak from took some time, as I tried different ways to address an audience.  What I learned early on was that flash cards or notes on paper in front of me made me lose my place in connecting, because I was busy looking down and reading.  I know that this works well for many speakers, however, what I came to realize in my delivery was that I needed to tell a short story which was relatable.  In doing so, I could see people laughing or nodding their head along with me, through my telling of some of my stumbles through the course of my life.  I learned similarly that a moment of a story which I heard or read about, had the same impetus for me to want to address it via a column in which I dived into it further. My process appears to take longer at times due to ongoing editing which is needed, before I can publish something that I feel comfortable with.  I also looked back at some old posts and immediately wanted to edit archived articles, because I saw something else, I needed to change.  However, I did stop myself from doing that and have embraced self-forgiveness in this writing process, as I know I am far from being perfect and the core message still remains.  I have learned from writing along with reading other blogs, that there is a sense of community of people outside our immediate circles, which may have similar thoughts and interests that generate contemplation as we go about our daily lives.  Because I have been enhanced by so many others, including great authors on various subjects, I too share with them the need to give back.  From John Maxwell, one of my favorite authors, I learned this topic about adding value to others.  Whether it is with some form of life advice or through the retelling of a story which someone may not have heard, we can share and possibly enhance someone's life in the process.  Even if it were for just a few minutes, we can have a great impact on others in leading a more fulfilled existence.  I constantly look for material that inspires me or nurtures my own life in a certain way.  This is what I attempt to accomplish when putting words on this medium, to connect with others who I may not see or hear from on a consistent basis, yet, I know they are out there.  Therefore, remember to follow what you are most passionate about.  When doing an activity which does not feel like work or a struggle to complete, you will realize that you have a passion for something and you may find like-minded people around you who share in your experience.  Always look forward to learning something new, as we all are lifelong learners until we conclude our journey on this earth.  Practice having gratitude for all things big and small.  Remember to give back along the way and when you notice someone who needs some help, lend them a hand.   All of us can recall someone who may have done this for us throughout our lives, so think about paying it forward.  I hope your journey continues to be filled with great experiences, as you find like-minded people who may be part of your circle of support and that you continue to add value to everyone around you in the process.