As a leader, you don’t have to be at your best all the time, only when it really matters.
When you have a big presentation – it matters.
I find that the best thing I can do is to get my head and energy straight. Preparation is important, but that is something you do days beforehand. In the 36 hours before, you get rest, eat well, and get centered. Don’t cram the notes or scripts. Don’t try to remember everything you want to say. Instead, connect with WHY you are saying it.
What you are saying is important, but how you are saying and who you are being while you are saying it are just as important. Nobody will respond well to a great message delivered by a tired and clouded leader.
Have great energy and clarity and be authentic and relaxed, while being enthusiastic. When you are, the right words will come.
Awesome insight and advice from someone who has obviously practiced it and found it to be successful. I find that being tired and overworked is the greatest detriment to my leadership, especially when I try to train my Team or communicate new ideas – it hinders my passion, energy, and excitement for the topic which, in turn, hinders theirs. (If I’m not excited about this, why should they be…?) Just another downfall of overworking for lack of a better, more effective plan or method.
Thanks for the great perspective, Larry!
Love this message and agree 100+%!
Solid gold advice from the master! Thanks. Never knew that the really good presenters “begin” 36 hours before.