Tee Up Your Speech: Golf is Like Public Speaking Tips 13-16
Let’s look at more tips about golf and public speaking:
Tip #13: Focus on Your Target
Focus on your target. Know your objective so that you can achieve it. You should have this established when you prepare your presentation.
In golf, focus on where you want the ball to go, not where you don't want it to go! Forget about the water and the sand traps; focus on the green or a spot where you want to lay up the ball.
What is your target in public speaking?
Your audience. Make sure you are speaking to your audience's needs. Each time you speak, be aware of your audience and adapt your presentation accordingly.
Tip #14: Establish a Swing Thought
Focus on a strategy that will bring you success. Each time you play, it may be a different swing thought.
In golf, should you focus on posture, keeping your head down, keeping your arm straight, how close you are to the ball, where the ball is in your stance…? The list can be endless! You can't think about all of those thoughts simultaneously. Choose one!
In public speaking what are some strategies you can focus on? Is it speaking slowly, pausing, making eye contact, posture, movement...? The list can become overwhelming. Focus on a specific strategy and you will feel more successful.
When rehearsing, you can establish a thought for that trial and a different thought for a subsequent practice session.
Less is more! Focus on one thing at a time!
Tip #15: Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Obstacles
In golf, be aware of other people on the fairway, green, or behind you. Is someone teeing off? Be quiet and respectful. What obstacles do you see in front of you? Branches? A tree? A creek? Check your surroundings before hitting the ball or even driving your cart.
For public speaking, we should check out our venue or location before speaking. Where will you be talking? On a platform or simply in front of the room? Can everyone see you? What is their seating arrangement? Are there obstructions in the room? What about the lighting and sound quality? Is there noise in the next room? Be aware so you can make any adjustments necessary.
What are some obstacles you encounter as a speaker?
Tip #16: Know Your Limitations
Know your limitations and play or speak within your capabilities.
When playing golf, be realistic. Don't expect to play as well as someone who's been playing for ten years. Be kind to yourself and set realistic goals. Perhaps it's to get single and double bogies until you're at the point to expect to par the hole. By all means, don't whine or complain on the course. No one wants to hear that! Sometimes, it's all about how you rise above your predicaments!
With public speaking, perfection is not always the goal. Know that anything can happen. Again, set realistic expectations and then develop strategies that will help you accomplish your goals. Don't complain or make excuses. Even when technology fails, how you respond will affect your audience. Show up in the best way you can, and your audience will appreciate that.
Reach out to me with any questions or to learn how you can master your public speaking skills. You can attend our two-hour master class in public speaking. Learn how to harness your public speaking anxiety and organize a concise and organized talk. Learn more here
Hit ‘em straight!
Lynda
Lynda Katz Wilner, MS
Communication and Speech Trainer/Coach
410-356-5666