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This article was inspired by @cryotosensei someone I have never met. Thank you so much. Everything written below is based on my own experiences and insights.
At the starting point, I wasn’t someone who was naturally eloquent or gifted in performing in front of a crowd. I am an introvert. I tend to avoid crowds—not because I dislike them, but because being around a group of people for an extended period drains me. Many others are like me. In Human Design, we are known as the "Projector" type.
But I didn’t let this weakness stop me. I began learning public speaking in 2016. By 2018, I became a teaching assistant in a class. And officially in 2019, I started teaching public speaking myself. My students come from a wide range of ages—from children to middle-aged adults. Some struggle with communication disabilities, while others are already working professionals.
There is so much I could say and share about this subject. But the most important thing I want to share—so your journey with public speaking doesn't take as much time and effort as mine—is this:
Understand your own energy/psychological archetype clearly.
Throughout my teaching journey, I’ve observed and identified three main types of energy or psychological patterns:
The first type: These individuals possess strong energy, psychology, and personality. They are willing to try new things, learn quickly, and have clear personal viewpoints. With this type, my role is to point out their mistakes and offer feedback in a subtle and skillful manner.
The second type: These people enjoy being in crowds. They thrive in group activities and can participate in programs day after day without getting tired. They learn best through trial and error. To help them improve, let them engage in real-life programs and hands-on experiences.
The third type: This group includes introverts—those who do not enjoy public interaction and often feel drained in social settings. For them, practice can be difficult due to hesitation and shyness. The key is to guide them through small, manageable steps and provide demonstrations. They need a model to follow and a companion along the way. Learning alone often traps them in their own psychological walls. If they are required to perform in front of an audience, make sure it’s a well-guided and supportive one. This will significantly boost their confidence.
this territory is moderated
Such a joy to read this before my bedtime. I think your categorisation makes so much sense. Different strokes different folks.
I think I belong to the second type. What advice do you have for this group of speakers who get so immersed in the audience’s vibes that they kinda get swept along rather than remain in full control of their thoughts?
Thank you for sharing your life’s work!
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58 sats \ 1 reply \ @dot OP 23 Mar
Thank you for stopping by. There are two things I’d like to share with you:
  1. In this field — or in any other skill-based discipline — you’re like a pilot flying an aircraft. Once you’ve logged enough flight hours, you’ll naturally know how to adjust your delivery as needed.
  2. A small tip to help you stay more in control during your practice is to use a checklist. For each section you complete, simply tick it off. Doing this will help you stay aware of where you are within the overall structure of your talk.
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I like the checklist idea. My Japanese teacher used to do that. After she finished one segment, she would tick it off her lesson checklist. Thanks for reminding me
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