by Crystal Bowman
Like peanut butter and jelly, writing and speaking just go together. Though each can stand on its own, they are better together. But what comes first—writing or speaking? Well, that depends.
From Speaker to Writer
Popular pastors, teachers, and motivational speakers who gain a sizable following often receive publishing offers because their books compliment their messages and reach an even broader audience. Because of the popularity of the speakers, their books typically sell thousands if not millions. Rick Warren, James Dobson, and Louie Giglio are prime examples. For most of these types of speakers, their speaking/teaching platforms came first, followed by a writing career to expand their reach.
From Writer to Speaker
Many writers, like myself, dreamed of being an author, but would break out in hives at the thought of speaking. I can remember many details of my high school speech class, not because it was fun or exciting, but because I was terrified every time it was my turn to speak in front of my peers. When I began writing for publication, speaking was not on my aspiration list.
Then a friend shared some wise words that changed the course of my life. Just as Mark Twain said, “Write what you know,” my friend told me, “Speak what you know.”
As a former school teacher and children’s writer, I was comfortable speaking in schools. I shared my stories and humorous poetry in author assemblies and taught writing workshops in the classroom. When a teacher asked me to speak at their church’s mother-daughter banquet, I accepted. Although I had a case of the nerves, I enjoyed being part of their program, and to my surprise I sold some books. My speaking opportunities grew rapidly as did my confidence. But just like writing is a learning experience, so is speaking. I attended conferences for speakers and read books on speaking to improve my speaking skills.
Find Your Place
Just like writers need to find their “sweet-spot” genre, speakers need to find their place in the world of speaking. My favorite places to speak are writers’ conferences, schools, churches, and MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) groups. It’s where I fit, and I am no longer terrified to speak because I speak what I know. Not every writer needs to be a keynote speaker or travel the globe to have a successful speaking career.
Writing has always been my passion, but over the years, speaking has also become my passion. I have found my place and ask God to use me where He chooses to lead me. Just like writing, speaking has its highs and lows and not every event will be a mountain-top experience. We need to go through the doors God opens for us, and trust that God will bless someone with our words.
I have come to enjoy speaking almost as much as writing and am thankful that God has given me some wonderful opportunities. However, if I am ever asked to be a key-note speaker at a national conference, I would definitely break out in hives!
TWEETABLE
Featured Image: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
I'm like you, Crystal. If speech had been a required class for graduation, I would still be in high school. But now I love conducting workshops and teaching others about writing. Funny how God takes our biggest fear and turns it on its head.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right! I know whenever I speak it is only by God's grace that I am able to do it.
DeleteAs a former children's librarian, I'm most comfortable doing writing workshops at libraries. I know what the librarians expect, which makes it easy to create a workshop.
ReplyDeleteKnowing your audience is so important. It sounds like you have found your place.
DeleteI became a writer because I wanted to do more speaking. But now I'm just as comfortable writing as I am speaking. Both are very necessary and they grow the platform of the other. Thanks, Crystal!
ReplyDeleteYou are right--they are both necessary. Sounds like you enjoy both which is great.
DeleteI was blessed with parents who required us to speak in public at a young age. Though I am a shy person, it's a lot easier to get in front of a group and teach, with the background experience I acquired as a child. It's also easier when I know the Lord has some important truths He wants me to share.
ReplyDeleteWhat great parents you had! A blessing indeed. Yes--giving a message that God has placed on our heart is what motivates us to share his truth with others. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI remember my terror in my college speech class, too. Teaching public school and college helped me get over most of that, although at the beginning of the school year, I still have some butterflies. I think just a little anxiety keeps us on our toes. Speaking in church and leading Bible studies has given me more confidence. As you point out, Crystal, speak what we know. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDelete