I was talking to a friend the other day who has the desire to speak publicly. He’s an amazing graphic designer, and people actually ask him to speak from time to time at their conferences. He enjoys it, but he also feels like he’s going to throw up before and after he speaks. He’s terrified.
He doesn’t think he’s a great speaker. And to be honest, maybe he isn’t. If he feels that he isn’t, there’s probably some truth there. But here’s what I told him:
“Just because you don’t speak well, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.”
You see, he’ll get better at speaking. The only way he’ll improve is by doing it. But his inadequacies as a presenter doesn’t mean he’s inadequate. He still has something very important to say. He has knowledge others crave. And he needs to share that knowledge.
He has a perspective and skill set that’s completely unique to him. Nobody else can offer what he can offer – whether they’re a better or worse speaker than he is.
The presentation skills will come as he develops them. But if he doesn’t start sharing his knowledge now, the world is missing out on what he has to say.
It’s easy, as an artist, to feel like you’re lacking in areas. These areas are often peripheral to what you have to offer. For instance, a singer/songwriter might lack in recording skills. A storyteller might lack in fluid writing skills. Someone with a dream might lack the finances or leadership skills to make it happen.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t try. Regardless of whether or not the artist succeeds, they need to work on their project. Whether the world benefits from the new art or the artist benefits from the learning experience, it’s important to do.
So what are you holding back from doing because of your lack.
I encourage you, do it. Just start. The peripheral skills will come as your practice. As you do.