Instrumental / Motivational

A motivational speech is intended to advise, motivate, or inspire an audience. Such speeches attempt to challenge or transform their audience’s perceptions of themselves. The elements of a good motivational speech require more than just having a transformative life experience. Contrary to the belief it’s not always necessary that you need to have a successful track record, be an expert or have a ‘rags to riches’ success story. Your audience will typically be drawn to a message that is delivered with a positive attitude, energy, and encouragement.

Before you begin your journey into motivational speaking let us take a moment look at the 5 crucial components when formulating your Motivational speech.

1. Audience – Whether it is a speech intended for 1 or a conference keynote, a motivational speech is designed to change the way your listeners see the challenges facing them in the future.

2. Credibility – Before and during any speech you make sure you have established yourself as an authority figure. Social proof, well crafted personal stories, and working with well-established sources helps you build credibility.

3. Delivery - Delivering your speech with authenticity is key. If you want to stand out don’t try to fit in.

4. Message - Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Find your niche topic and deliver your message as a “try before you buy”. Let them know that if it does not fit, they don’t have to wear it.

5. Listen – To be heard, first you must learn to hear. Appreciate other points of view, even if you do not agree with it and acknowledge differences in opinion.

Begin with a Plan

You do not become a great motivational speaker by rehashing old ideas in the same way everyone else does. Aim to develop fresh and relevant content that your audience would like to hear. Make sure to invest some time into thinking deeply about your primary message and then focus on your deliver

The Simple Construction

When constructing your speech consider how you’ll take your audience from where they are now (A) to where you want them to be (B). Once you’ve defined the before-and-after change you want to see, build your presentation outline around that journey. What makes motivational speeches unique is that there is no right or wrong way of constructing your speech as long as you can effectively communicate the desired outcome. Think of it as poetry or composing a song. Find your beat and keep a consistent rhythm that moves people. Use these steps and write down all your answers in one or two sentences.

1. What is your primary message? Never overwhelm the audience too much information. Stick to 1 point

2. What qualifies you to speak about this topic? Establish your credibility or how do you intend to.

3. What obstacles have you/they overcome? Think of a story. It can either be a personal story or an influencer story that relates to your message and connects with your audience. "In our common experience”

4. What tools or methods did you/they use to overcome them? Place your supporting points here on the steps taken that

support your message. Make these points easy to understand.

5. What are the advantages of your proposal? Clearly demonstrate what it will do for them

Now take the time to review your notes and let’s begin connecting the dots.

The Finishing Touches

After you have outlined your motivational speech, you're ready to add some color. Remember that what you say and how you say it can impact human feelings and behavior.

Get their Attention! Start off with an arousing opener that is sure to gain their attention. Do so by implementing one of these methods.

Tell a joke to break the ice
Begin with a captivating or funny story
Start with a gripping quotation
Ask a “What-if” or a compelling question
Present a paradox or unusual fact
Warm them up with an activity

Remember, you can win or lose an audience in the first 60 seconds

Use your Voice and Body to project power and magnitude. This will require a lot of practice and a deep understanding of public speaking fundamentals. Vocal Variety and Body Language are essential for a good motivational speech. Remember to utilize all 4 P’s. Pitch, Pause, Pace, Power.

As for body language act out what you're telling them. Use your whole body to communicate a thought, an image. Remember to do so sensibly, you don't go to your audience, you make them come to you

To find the right combination I would recommend researching and watching other motivational speakers.

Take your newfound knowledge and put it to the test.

Take it Home! Give them a powerful close. Tell a dramatic story that personifies personal achievement and success. Tell them they too can do it, not to quit, that they will succeed whatever their personal goals may be. Recap and relate the success to how each of them will personally benefit. What they want to hear from you is a correlation with reality. All you have to do is show them that relationship.

Time to Deliver

Congratulations! You are now ready to deliver your motivational speech. Your closing should spark emotions in a powerful and dynamic way. Reach your audience according to what matters to them. Their importance, their personal value, what they stand to gain, and most importantly, their self-worth. You’ll know immediately if you have done a well. After your speech you won't even have to ask for their commitment. Practice what you speak and stay committed to your message that's motivation. “Motivated people motivate people”

Take your newfound knowledge and put it to the test. Practice your Motivational Speaking skills here. Or if you’d like to learn more be on the lookout for Your Voice NY workshops

Whether you are a beginner or a pro it’s always a great idea to have quick and simple material to reference. If you are interested in learning more and finding your inner motivator continue reading from here.