Lessons From “an Overnight Success” at the Age of 80
Session Overview:
My presentation is the story of a journey through the world of writing and publishing. From the joy of sharing my work as a young teacher, to seeing my name on two NYT bestsellers. It’s a 60-year journey along a twisted road filled with detours and potholes and rejection—and some mighty magnificent scenery. I spoke before live audiences for the first time after the age of 80 when my first book came out. During the past four years, I’ve spoken to dozens of audiences, both large and small and participated in countless live and taped interviews—on television, the Internet, and radio. My story reflects the lessons I have learned along the road to becoming an overnight success.
Learning Objectives:
Sometimes our dreams are unrealistic and have to be adjusted or deferred.
We must be willing to be flexible in accomplishing our goal.
Being flexible does not mean giving up our passion.
Lessons I’ve Learned About Public Speaking:
Know your subject: top to bottom, inside out, backwards, and forwards…
Know your audience (when possible):
Their background.
Their interests.
Their education.
Why they have come to hear you.
Be sure your notes are written legibly.
Wear your most effective glasses—not the ones that make you look glamorous.
Dress comfortably—with shoes you can walk in and stand in for hours.
Leave your audience wanting more!